Removing Blood Stains.

How to Remove Blood Stains from Bedding

Removing blood stains from bedding can feel like an impossible task – but it doesn’t have to be. Of all the stubborn stains out there, blood is one of the toughest to tackle, especially if it’s been sitting for a while. The key is speed: fresh blood is much easier to lift than dried stains.

Always start with cool or cold water, since blood dissolves in lower temperatures. Hot water will “cook” the proteins in the blood, locking the stain in for good.

After three kids and hundreds of spills, scrapes, and accidents, I’ve mastered the art of getting blood out of pillows, sheets, blankets, and even mattresses – quickly and without fuss. Follow along, and I’ll walk you through simple, effective steps to become a pro at removing blood stains from any bedding.

Blood Stain Removal Tips

1. Rinse from the back of the blood stain using cold water. This helps push the stain out.
2. Remove as much of the stain as possible by rinsing in cold water only. Avoid warm or hot water.
3. Apply a dab of dish soap to the stain and gently rub it in to break up the blood.
4. Avoid using heat—it will set the stain permanently. Always use cold water.
5. Do not use the dryer. If any stain remains, the heat from the dryer will make it permanent. Let the item air dry by hanging it inside or outside on a sunny day.

How to Remove Fresh Blood Stains

With a fresh blood stain – Act Quickly – the sooner you treat the stain, the easier it will be to remove.

Rinse with Cold Water

Remove the bedding and immediately rinse the stained area with cold water. Avoid hot water, as it can set the stain.

Hold the fabric under cold running water, aiming from the backside of the stain to push it out.

Soak in Cold Water

If the stain persists, fill a bathtub with cold water and soak the stained bedding for at least 30 minutes.

While soaking, gently rub the fabric together to help loosen the blood.

Pre-Treat the Stain

After soaking, apply dish soap (like Dawn) or a stain remover directly to the bloodstain.

Let it sit for 15-30 minutes to break down the blood.

Cold Wash in the Machine

Wash the bedding in your washing machine using cold water and your regular detergent. Avoid using bleach unless the fabric is white or bleach-safe, as it can damage colored fabrics.

Air Dry

Do not use a dryer, as heat can set any remaining stain. Instead, air dry the bedding by hanging it indoors or outside if possible.

Repeat if Necessary

If the stain isn’t fully gone after washing, repeat the pre-treatment and cold wash process.

How to Remove Stubborn Blood Stains

If traces of the stain remain, don’t worry – just make sure no heat (hot water or dryer) has been applied yet. Here’s how to tackle it:

• Hydrogen Peroxide: Pour it directly on the stain.
• Ammonia Solution: Mix 1 tablespoon of ammonia with 1 cup of water. Apply to the stain, blot it, then wash in cold water as soon as possible.

Let these solutions sit for 30-60 minutes, then wash again in cold water. Repeat if needed until the stain is completely gone.

Removing Dried or Old Blood Stains

It isn’t always possible to immediately treat blood stains.

If this happens:

1. Soak the sheets in cold water for several hours to loosen and dissolve as much of the stain as possible.
2. You might even run it through a complete cold water wash with a mild detergent.

Check the amount of stain remaining, then:

Mix 1 Tbs. Meat Tenderizer and 2 tsp. Cold Water to make a paste, and follow these instructions:

• Spread the paste on the blood stain and work in with your fingers.
• Allow it to sit for a half hour to an hour.
• Shake off excess and wash in cold water.

How to Remove Blood Stains from a Mattress

First blot the stain with cold water using a cloth or sponge and gently blot the blood stain. Avoid scrubbing, as it can push the stain deeper into the mattress. Blot until you’ve removed as much blood as possible.
Combine the following to make a paste:

• 1/2 Cup Cornstarch
• 1 Tbs. Salt
• 1/4 Cup Hydrogen Peroxide

1. Using a spoon, dab the paste onto the mattress, directly on the stained area.
2. Allow to air dry until the paste is completely dry.
3. Scrape off and examine the stain.
4. If the stain is still there, reapply paste and repeat.

While you may not always be able to erase every trace, the best defense is prevention – investing in a washable, removable mattress pad can save you from future headaches. Still, accidents happen, and now you’re armed with all the tips and tricks for removing blood stains from bedding quickly and effectively. If the fabric is washable, a fast rinse in cold water and a tiny dab of detergent right on the spot can work wonders.

You’re officially a certified stain-fighting champion. Good luck – and go get ’em (the stains, that is)!