6 tips for removing common stains after holiday feast

How to remove candle wax from furniture

Wax stains on furniture look unattractive, but they can be quickly removed. First, let the wax fully harden without attempting to wipe it off while it’s still liquid.

Carefully scrape off the hardened wax with a plastic card or a dull knife to avoid damaging the surface. Any remaining wax can be removed by warming the stain with a hairdryer and blotting it with a paper towel or cloth.

Use a wood cleaner or furniture polish if the stain is still visible. Finish by wiping the surface with a damp cloth to restore its shine.

Removing wax from fabric

Wax stains on fabrics require a delicate approach to avoid damaging the material. Place the fabric in the freezer for a few hours to harden the wax, then carefully scrape it off with a blunt object.

For any remaining stain, use an iron: place the fabric between two sheets of paper and heat it. The wax will melt and transfer to the paper. If any traces remain, apply a stain remover and wash the fabric in warm water according to the care label instructions.

How to remove wine stains

Red wine is a common "guest" on fabric during the holidays, but it can be quickly removed. For a fresh stain, blot the wine with a paper towel, being careful not to rub.

Sprinkle the stain with kitchen salt — it will absorb any remaining liquid. Then, rinse the fabric with cold water. Use a stain remover or a mixture of baking soda and water for stubborn stains.

Apply a little vinegar or a specialized stain remover if the stain persists. Finish by washing the fabric in the machine according to the care instructions.

Many holiday dishes leave stains (photo: Freepik.com)

Removing chocolate stains

Chocolate stains may seem tricky, but simple solutions can easily remove them. Allow the chocolate to harden, then gently remove the residue with a dull knife.

Moisten the stain with cold water and apply liquid dish detergent or a stain gel. Let the product sit for 15 minutes, then rinse the fabric thoroughly.

If the stain remains, try washing it in warm water with a specialized detergent. Remember that hot water can set the stain, so only use cold or warm water.

How to remove grease stains

Grease stains on fabric and furniture may seem hopeless, but they can be removed. For fabric, sprinkle the stain with cornstarch or talcum powder to absorb the grease. After 15–20 minutes, shake off the residue and apply dishwashing detergent to the stain.

Then, wash the fabric in warm water. For furniture, use a soft cloth dampened with a mixture of warm water and detergent. If any traces remain, try using a specialized grease stain remover.

Final cleaning tips after the holidays

Cleaning up after the holidays can be exhausting, but the right approach can save time and effort. Always act quickly: the fresher the stain, the easier it is to remove.

Use natural products like baking soda, vinegar, or salt if you don’t have specialized cleaners on hand. Before cleaning, always test your chosen method on an inconspicuous area of fabric or furniture.

Don’t forget to ventilate the room after cleaning to eliminate the smell of cleaning products. With these tips, your home will remain just as cozy and clean after the holidays as it was during the celebrations.

Sources: Spruce, Apartment Therapy, Sante Plus.