How to Remove Vinegar Stain

Our Answer

White vinegar is great for removing stains.  Red vinegar, on the other hand, often includes dyes and additives – which is what's refusing to come out of your carpet.  

Assuming the stain is diluted and all the liquid is absorbed, try this: Mix one part liquid dishwashing detergent and one part white vinegar (one tablespoon of each should do the trick) with two cups of warm water.  Sponge the stain with a clean white cloth, dabbing slowly and drying up excess moisture until the stain disappears. When it has, dab it with cold water and wipe it dry. 

Ammonia and rubbing alcohol also work for removing red vinegar on fabric and upholstery. 
Lifting red wine from less porous surfaces, like countertops, calls for a different approach.  For laminate countertops, add just enough water to several teaspoons of baking soda to achieve a toothpaste-like consistency.  Mix them well, then apply to the stain with a soft scrub brush. 
Wipe.  If the stain remains, squirt some dish soap onto the now-moistened stain, scrub with a soft brush, wipe the area clean, and dab until dry.  Repeat with bleach or denatured alcohol if the stain lingers.

When cleaning marble surfaces, avoid vinegars or scouring powders.  They can do more harm than good. Instead, clean with a neutral cleaner, a stone soap, or a mild dishwashing detergent mixed with warm water.