Q&A for How to Remove Water Stains from Fabric

You can usually remove a water stain by using a towel to rub the stain out. It should come out pretty easily, but if it doesn't, run your finger under hot water from the faucet. Then, place your finger on the stain itself and rub in a circular motion for about five seconds.

Mix equal parts vinegar and olive oil in a small bowl. Dip a cloth in it and wipe the stain in the direction of the wood grain until the stain is gone. The vinegar removes the stain and the olive oil polishes the wood.

If fabric is dry clean only, it's best to take it to the cleaners so you don't risk damaging the fabric more.

The iron method will work. Try incorporating a liquid water softener or a rust remover for clothes the next time you hand wash it to remove minerals and soften the water.

Make sure to only lightly mist the surface and dab the couch gently (making sure not to press the liquid deep into the fabric). If it absolutely can't get wet or be steamed, you may need to consult a professional cleaner.

The vinegar spray method should work on water resistant cushions. If the cushions don't have any material in the fabric that could melt, try steaming the stain away, too.

Place a clean towel on a flat surface and spread the water-stained fabric out on the towel. Soak a microfiber cloth in water and dab the area to moisten it. Then, dry the damp area with an iron. Moisten the fabric again and dry it again with an iron. After about 4 attempts, you'll start to notice the stains fading. Keep repeating the process of dampening the area and drying it with an iron until the stains are gone.

To remove water stains from upholstery like cloth seats, start by mixing together ½ cup (125 mL) of vinegar and 2 cups (0.5 L) of water in a spray bottle. Spray the stained area lightly with the solution so it's misted, but not saturated. Take a clean, dry microfiber cloth and press it against the stain the soak up the liquid. Then, mist the area again with the solution and soak it up with the cloth. Repeat the process at least 4 times to see noticeable improvement. Once the stains are removed, dry the area with a hair dryer so mold doesn't develop.

It is possible to remove water rings from furniture with mayonnaise. However, the oil in the mayo may stain the surface, so don't use it on cloth or upholstery. Start by blotting the surface dry with a clean cloth. Then, spread a layer of mayo over the water rings and leave it overnight. Take a clean cloth, wipe off the mayo, and use the cloth to buff the surface and remove the water rings. If they're still there, you can repeat the process again to try to remove them further.