It’s time for the big game! That usually means lots of delicious appetizers, but it can also mean spills on your favorite jersey. And if you host a party, after the final whistle, your home might look more like a fumble than a touchdown. From wing sauce splatters to salsa spills, party messes can be as much a tradition as the halftime show. Don’t worry! With a game plan and the right tactics, you can blitz those stains and restore your space before the Monday morning huddle. 

Common Stains and How to Defeat Them 

• Buffalo Sauce & Ketchup: Blot, don’t rub, the stain with a clean cloth to absorb as much as possible. Mix a little dish soap with cold water and gently dab the area. For set-in stains on clothes, pre-treat with a laundry detergent containing enzymes before tossing in a cold wash. 

• Beer & Soda: For carpets or upholstery, quickly blot up liquid, then sprinkle with baking soda to absorb remaining moisture and odor. After 15 minutes, vacuum the area. If it isn’t all gone, apply a carpet stain remover and follow the directions on the product label. 

• Guacamole & Cheese Dips: Scrape off excess with a spoon. Treat fabrics with a stain remover, then launder in cold water. If it’s on the couch, use an upholstery cleaner, then blot dry. 

• Chocolate Desserts: Let chocolate harden, then gently scrape off. Pre-treat the spot with a stain remover and rinse with cold water before washing. Avoid hot water, which can set the stain. 

General Tips for Post-Party Cleanup 

• Act Fast: The sooner you tackle a stain, the better your chances of total removal. 

• Use Cold Water: Cold water is your MVP for most stains, since hot water can set proteins and sugars. 

• Don’t Over-Saturate: Too much water can spread the stain or soak into cushions and padding. Use small amounts and blot often. 

• Keep Supplies Handy: Have stain removers and clean cloths within reach during the big game for quick responses. 

Remember, every stain is beatable with a little hustle and the right playbook! Check out our stain guide for all the right plays.