Blood stains can be stubborn and unsightly, especially if they’re not treated quickly. Whether it’s from a minor injury, a nosebleed, or another accidental spill, knowing how to get blood stain out of fabrics, carpets, or upholstery is a helpful skill that can save your favorite clothes or furniture. The key is to act fast and use the right techniques for the material involved. Different surfaces require different treatments, and using the wrong method might set the stain permanently. Fortunately, with patience and the right approach, most blood stains can be removed completely.
Understanding Blood Stains
Blood contains proteins, and when it dries, those proteins bond tightly to fabric fibers. This is why warm or hot water should be avoided heat can set the stain by cooking the proteins into the material. Always start with cold water and gentle blotting to lift as much of the stain as possible before using stronger cleaning agents.
General Rules Before Cleaning
- Act quickly: The sooner you treat a blood stain, the easier it is to remove.
- Use cold water: Always rinse with cold water first to avoid setting the stain.
- Blot, don’t rub: Rubbing can spread the stain and damage the fabric.
- Test first: Always test cleaning solutions on a hidden part of the material before full application.
How to Get Blood Stain Out of Clothes
Step 1: Rinse with Cold Water
Turn the fabric inside out and rinse the stain under cold running water. This helps push the blood out of the fibers rather than driving it deeper in. Blot gently with a clean cloth if needed.
Step 2: Use Soap or Detergent
Apply a small amount of liquid laundry detergent or hand soap directly to the stain. Gently rub the fabric together to create a lather. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cold water.
Step 3: Try Hydrogen Peroxide (For Whites or Colorfast Fabrics)
If the stain is still visible, apply a small amount of 3% hydrogen peroxide. It will bubble as it reacts with the blood. Blot gently with a cloth and rinse again. Avoid using peroxide on dark or delicate fabrics, as it can bleach them.
Step 4: Wash as Usual
After treating the stain, wash the clothing according to its care label instructions using cold water. Check the stain before drying if it’s still there, repeat the process. Drying can permanently set the stain.
How to Remove Blood Stains from Upholstery
Step 1: Blot the Stain
Use a clean, dry cloth to blot up as much blood as possible. Do not rub, as this can spread the stain.
Step 2: Make a Cleaning Solution
Mix two cups of cold water with one tablespoon of dish soap. Dip a clean cloth into the solution and gently blot the stain, working from the outside in to prevent spreading.
Step 3: Rinse and Dry
Use a cloth dampened with plain cold water to blot away the soap solution. Blot dry with a dry towel and allow the area to air dry completely.
How to Clean Blood from Carpets
Step 1: Blot with Cold Water
Blot the area with a cloth soaked in cold water. Absorb as much of the blood as you can without oversaturating the carpet.
Step 2: Use a Mild Detergent Solution
Mix one tablespoon of dish detergent with two cups of cold water. Apply the solution with a sponge or cloth and gently dab the stained area. Avoid rubbing.
Step 3: Rinse and Dry
Blot the area with a clean cloth soaked in cold water to remove any soap residue. Then blot with a dry cloth and allow the carpet to air dry. Repeat if needed.
Alternative Methods and Household Items
Using Baking Soda Paste
Mix one part baking soda with two parts cold water to make a paste. Apply it to the stain, let it sit for 30 minutes, then blot and rinse with cold water. This method works well on fabric and some upholstery.
Using Salt Water
For delicate fabrics like silk or wool, dissolve one teaspoon of salt in a cup of cold water. Soak the stained area, then blot with a cloth. Rinse and repeat as needed.
Using Ammonia
Mix one tablespoon of ammonia with half a cup of cold water (never mix ammonia with bleach). Use a sponge to dab the stain, then rinse. This method is effective but should be used cautiously, especially on colored fabrics.
Tips for Dried or Old Blood Stains
If the blood has already dried, removing the stain may take more effort:
- Soak in cold water: Let the fabric sit in cold water for several hours to soften the stain.
- Use an enzyme cleaner: These are especially helpful on protein-based stains like blood.
- Repeat treatments: Don’t expect dried stains to disappear after one treatment. Patience and repetition often pay off.
What to Avoid
- Hot water: Can set the stain permanently.
- Bleach (on delicate or colored fabrics): May damage or discolor the fabric.
- Drying before complete removal: Heat from the dryer can lock in the stain.
- Rough scrubbing: Can fray fibers and spread the stain further.
When to Seek Professional Help
In some cases, particularly with delicate fabrics, expensive garments, or antique upholstery, it’s best to take the item to a professional cleaner. They have the expertise and tools to remove stains without damaging the material.
Knowing how to get blood stain out of different materials can save you time, money, and frustration. Whether you’re treating clothing, upholstery, or carpet, starting quickly and using cold water are the most important steps. Choose the method that suits your specific material, be gentle, and repeat as needed. With the right approach, even stubborn blood stains can be removed successfully, restoring your items to a clean and fresh state. Regular care and prompt treatment make all the difference in effective stain removal.