It happens in slow motion: the glass tips, the red wine splashes, and suddenly your favorite shirt is covered in a dark, spreading crimson blot. In the panic, someone inevitably shouts, "Get the club soda!" While this is a common dinner party trick, following it blindly can actually do more harm than good. Before you pour carbonated water on your garment, you need to understand why this myth persists and the professional way to truly save your clothes.
Red Wine on Your Best Shirt? Why You Shouldn't Use Club Soda (And What to Do Instead)
The Hidden Dangers of Club Soda
While club soda is a popular home remedy, it is rarely the miracle cure people claim. It may dilute the visible liquid, but it often leaves behind invisible sugar residues and tannins. If left untreated, these residues oxidize over time, turning into stubborn yellow or brown stains that become nearly impossible to remove later.
Why Rubbing is the Real Enemy
The biggest mistake most people make isn't the liquid they choose, but the mechanical action they apply. Rubbing a stain aggressively forces the wine deeper into the fabric fibers and can cause permanent damage to the material. This friction breaks down the threads, leaving your favorite shirt looking worn out even if the stain eventually fades.
The "Blot, Don't Scrub" Technique
Instead of reaching for carbonated water, your immediate goal should be absorption. Gently blot—never scrub—the area with a clean, dry white cloth or paper towel to lift as much liquid as possible. If the fabric is durable, a small amount of cool water can help, but keep chemicals away until we can assess the damage.
Why Professional Care Matters
For delicate fabrics or sentimental garments, professional attention is the only safe route. As your premier Pasadena dry cleaner, we use specialized enzymatic solutions that break down tannins without harming the fiber. Best of all, you don't need to rush over; our convenient Pasadena laundry pick up service brings our expertise right to your front door.
Don't let a glass of Merlot ruin your evening or your wardrobe. By avoiding the club soda myth and trusting the experts, you ensure your garments stay pristine. At Pasadena Dry Cleaning and Laundry, we are ready to restore your favorites. Contact us today to schedule your pickup or visit our state-of-the-art facility.