Natural fibres absorb liquids quickly, making them more difficult to treat. Natural fibres commonly used in carpets include wool, cotton, silk, jute and sisal. Synthetic fibres like nylon, polyester, acrylic and polypropylene are not as absorbent. Liquids do not saturate these yarns as quickly, making them easier to treat. Removing red wine stains from both natural and synthetic yarns uses the same techniques.

First, immediately blot the spill with a clean, dry white cloth to remove most of the liquid. It is important to blot, not rub. Rubbing will distribute the liquid and imbed it into the fibres. Spills tend to bead up and sit on the surface of synthetic fibres, but are quickly absorbed by wool and other natural yarns.

After removing as much of the moisture as possible by blotting, sprinkle table salt over the spill and wait a few minutes. The salt will absorb both moisture and colour; it may turn pink as it continues to absorb. Vacuum the salt; the stain should be gone.

If there is still red wine stains remaining, mix sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) in a cup of water. Pour this mixture over the stain. Again blot. Start with a sponge, which is very absorbent. Follow with a clean, dry white cloth. The stain should be gone.

For other stains, here are some general do-it-yourself stain removal tips that may help you in emergencies. Try to determine the fibre content of the carpet yarn. Although most stain removal agents work on both synthetic and natural fibres, not all do. Each type of fibre may react differently to the kind of stain. For example, polyester readily absorbs oils but not water-based stains or urine. Some nylons are treated with acid dye blockers and fluorochemical coatings. Alkaline solutions weaken these coatings. Stain removal agents should be as pH-neutral as possible to avoid damage to carpet fibres and dyes.

Treat stains immediately, if possible. Blot liquids with a clean, dry white cloth. Do not rub. Try to prevent a liquid from saturating the carpet backing and padding. Test cleaners on an area of the carpet that does not show. If in doubt, call a carpet cleaning professional for evaluation and treatment of the red wine stains.