Top Tips to Remove Common Carpet Stains Like Wine, Coffee & Ink

Smart Science. Real Solutions. Expert Backups.

Accidents Happen. Stains Don’t Have to Stay.

Whether it’s a glass of red wine, a morning coffee spill, or a rogue ink pen—carpet stains can strike at any time. But not all stains are created equal, and neither are their solutions.

At AZ Spotless Experts, we combine chemistry, technique, and technology to fight stains at the molecular level. Here’s how YOU can respond to common carpet emergencies—and when it’s time to call in the pros.


THE SCIENCE OF STAIN REMOVAL

Stain = Substance + Time + Temperature + Material That’s the formula. And it tells us that the longer a stain sits, the harder it sets.

Our Van-Mounted Advantage:
We use heated rinse extraction, fiber-safe spotting agents, and advanced agitation tools to lift stains from the base of the carpet up.


RED WINE

What Not to Do:

  • Don’t rub—it spreads the stain
  • Don’t pour white wine (myth!)

Quick Fix:

  1. Blot with clean paper towels—ASAP
  2. Mix 1 tbsp white vinegar + 1 tbsp dish soap + 2 cups warm water
  3. Dab gently with a microfiber cloth
  4. Rinse with cool water and blot dry

Pro Tip:

Red wine binds to nylon and wool fibers easily. We use oxidizing agents and dye-lifters formulated to break down anthocyanins (the pigment in wine).


COFFEE

What Not to Do:

  • Don’t use hot water—it can set tannins
  • Don’t oversaturate

Quick Fix:

  1. Blot immediately—remove as much as possible
  2. Mix 1 tbsp hydrogen peroxide + 1 tbsp dish soap
  3. Apply and let sit for 5–10 minutes
  4. Rinse gently with cold water

Pro Tip:

Coffee contains tannic acids, which bind tightly to carpet fibers. Our van-mount system uses alkaline stain neutralizers to dissolve and extract those tough browns.


INK

What Not to Do:

  • Never scrub—ink will spread
  • Avoid water-based cleaners for permanent ink

Quick Fix:

  1. Dab with rubbing alcohol using a cotton swab
  2. Work from outside in to avoid spreading
  3. Blot dry—repeat if necessary
  4. Once removed, rinse with water and blot again

Know When to DIY vs. Call AZ Spotless

DIY is great for:

  • Fresh spills
  • Surface-level discoloration
  • Water-based stains

Call AZ Spotless Experts when:

  • Stains reappear after a day or two
  • Carpet is wool, silk, or delicate fiber
  • You’re dealing with ink, blood, pet urine, or wine
  • The stain is more than 48 hours old

Pro Tip: The 3-T Minute Rule

Time + Technique + Temperature

The first 3 minutes after a spill are critical. Blot. Act fast. Then let us handle the chemistry.


Final Word from the Stain Pros

At AZ Spotless Experts, we don’t just clean—we solve stain problems at the source. Whether your rug is synthetic or silk, we bring the right tech, touch, and treatments.

Need help with a stubborn stain? Call us anytime.

We offer same-day appointments and 24/7 emergency stain removal support.