Here's what to do when your red wine ends up everywhere BUT in your mouth.
By Jessica Cruel, SELF
For some, a cup of red wine (or tomato sauce or gravy) is not a refreshing party prop -- it's an embarrassing stain waiting to happen. SELF spoke with Lindsey Boyd, co-founder of laundry and cleaning brand The Laundress, to learn the best method for handling a stain before it turns catastrophic.
1. Rinse the spot with cool water.
Before the spill sets, run to the restroom and give the fabric a quick rinse with cool water. "Cold water will remove a little bit of the stain," says Boyd. Don't even think about putting the generic antibacterial soap on the spot. If you're especially accident prone, carry a spot remover in your clutch. However Boyd warns against on-the-go sticks, which can actually remove the color in your outfit along with the spill.
2. Use a dishcloth or towel, not a cocktail napkin.
Avoid the stack of paper towel and the roll of tissue when you're ready to dry up the spot. Both options can leave lint on your garment, which makes your attempt to freshen up even more obvious. Another bad move: cocktail napkins. "Colored cocktail napkins bleed," warns Boyd. "You don't want to dip it in water and put on your silk blouse!" Instead ask your host for a dishcloth or lint-free towel.
3. Blot and press, but never rub.
Although the first instinct is to apply water and rub like hell to salvage your dress, always take the gentle approach. Blot and press the stain with minimal agitation. Buffing might spread the spill or create pills in the fabric.
Or, wait it out. It'll all come out in the wash.
Seriously, the spill doesn't look as bad as you think--a huge, wet spot can sometimes be worse. Rest assured, the majority of stains (even red wine and cranberry sauce) can be removed the next day. Boyd suggests to give the spot a quick blot and get on with the merrymaking.
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