Blood stains on fabric can be one of the most stubborn and frustrating messes to deal with. Whether it’s from a minor injury, an unexpected nosebleed, or an accident in the kitchen, knowing how to get blood out of fabric is an essential skill. The key to success is acting quickly, choosing the right cleaning method, and avoiding common mistakes that can make the stain worse.
If you’ve ever found yourself scrubbing in frustration or contemplating throwing away an otherwise perfectly good piece of clothing, don’t worry—there’s hope. In this guide, we’ll cover both fresh and dried blood stain removal techniques to help you save your fabrics.
Why Blood Stains Are So Hard to Remove
Blood contains proteins that bind to fabric fibers once they start to dry, making the stain much harder to lift. The biggest mistake people make is using hot water, which essentially “cooks” the blood into the fabric, setting the stain permanently. Another common mistake is scrubbing too aggressively, which spreads the stain rather than lifting it.
Instead of making these errors, follow the right steps to break down and remove the stain effectively.
Removing Fresh Blood Stains
If the blood is still wet, you’re in luck—it’s much easier to remove before it dries. Here’s what to do:
1. Rinse with Cold Water Immediately
Hold the stained fabric under cold running water and let the force of the water push the blood out. Always rinse from the back of the stain to avoid driving it deeper into the fibers.
2. Blot, Don’t Scrub
Use a clean cloth or paper towel to gently blot the stain. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the blood further and make it soak into the fabric.
3. Use Mild Soap or Dish Detergent
Apply a small amount of liquid dish soap or mild laundry detergent directly onto the stain. Let it sit for a minute, then gently work it into the fabric with your fingers or a soft sponge.
4. Rinse and Repeat If Needed
Rinse under cold water again and check if the stain has faded. If it’s still visible, repeat the process until it disappears.
Removing Dried Blood Stains
If the blood has already dried, don’t panic—there are still ways to get rid of it. The key is to loosen the stain before attempting to wash it out.
1. Soak in Cold Water
Fill a basin or sink with cold water and submerge the stained fabric. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes to help break up the dried blood. For tougher stains, leave it soaking for a few hours.
2. Apply Hydrogen Peroxide
Pour a small amount of hydrogen peroxide directly onto the stain. It will start to bubble, which means it’s breaking down the proteins in the blood. Let it sit for a few minutes, then blot the stain with a clean cloth. Rinse thoroughly with cold water.
3. Use Baking Soda Paste
For darker fabrics, hydrogen peroxide might be too harsh. Instead, make a paste with baking soda and water and spread it over the stain. Let it sit for 30 minutes, then gently scrub it with a soft brush before rinsing.
4. Try an Enzyme-Based Stain Remover
If the stain is being stubborn, use a commercial enzyme-based stain remover. These are specifically designed to break down protein-based stains like blood. Follow the instructions on the product, let it sit, then rinse.
Special Care for Delicate Fabrics
Some fabrics require extra caution when treating blood stains. If you’re dealing with silk, wool, or lace, follow these gentler methods:
- Salt and Cold Water: Mix salt with cold water to create a paste, then dab it onto the stain. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes before rinsing.
- White Vinegar: Soak the stain in white vinegar for 10 minutes, then blot with a clean cloth.
- Lemon Juice and Sunlight: If dealing with a white fabric, apply fresh lemon juice and let it sit in direct sunlight for an hour before rinsing.
Always do a spot test on a hidden area of the fabric before using any of these methods to make sure they don’t cause damage.
Final Rinse and Drying Tips
Once you’ve successfully lifted the stain, rinse the fabric thoroughly under cold water. Avoid using a dryer until you’re certain the stain is completely gone. Heat from a dryer can cause any remaining traces of blood to set permanently into the fabric. Instead, air dry the fabric in a shaded area.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to get blood out of fabric can save your favorite clothes, sheets, and upholstery from permanent damage. Acting quickly, using cold water, and selecting the right stain-removal method based on fabric type are key to successful stain removal. If the stain persists despite your efforts, consider seeking professional help to avoid fabric damage.
For professional stain removal and expert fabric care, visit Denver Cleaning Services. Their specialized cleaning techniques can help restore your fabrics to their original condition.
