With Christmas and all the guests there is bound to be some messes to clean up. If you can try to notice accidents as they happen or shortly after, clean them up right away. A stain that has settled for a while can be harder to clean up. So act quickly. A rule of thumb for cleaning stains on carpets, napkins and clothing is to always blot the stain. Scrubbing can ruin the surfaces. Also, first test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous spot and follow the instructions that apply.
Wine and soda on fabrics or carpet
For spilled white wine and clear sodas on clothing wash the items as soon as possible. For carpet spills, blot the carpet with water and apply a solution of warm water and a teaspoon of liquid dish washing soap. Do not apply bleach. Red wine spills and dark sodas apply the same solution but add a bit of hydrogen peroxide to the solution.
Removing wax from candlesticks and menorahs
To remove wax from silver or metal place them in the freezer until the wax hardens. Gently scrape off the wax with a plastic spatula. Any remaining wax, pour boiling water or immerse in a pot of boiling water. A blow dryer can be used for glass or wood, and blot the melting wax with a paper towel.
Christmas tree sap on carpet or upholstery
For all types of trees, may it be pine, fir, or spruce, first blot the area with isopropyl rubbing alcohol to dissolve the sap, than wash it with a solution of warm water and dish washing soap.
Cranberry sauce or Gravy on fabrics or carpet
You can try pre-treating any clothing or tablecloth with a stain remover and then wash. If this does not work, dab the area with hydrogen peroxide and then line dry. For carpet or upholstery stain, blot with warm water, dish washing soap and hydrogen peroxide solution.
