How to Get Blood Stains Out Of Clothes

Blood stains can be one of the toughest stains to remove from clothes, especially if they’re allowed to dry. The protein in blood binds to fabric fibers, making it challenging to wash out. However, with the right methods, you can effectively remove both fresh and dried blood stains without damaging the fabric. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting blood stains out of clothes.

Important Tip: Always Use Cold Water

Blood stains should be treated with cold water only. Hot water causes the proteins in blood to set, making the stain more challenging to remove. Cold water helps dissolve the blood without setting it into the fabric.

How to Remove Fresh Blood Stains

If the blood stain is still fresh, you have a good chance of removing it completely with prompt action. Follow these steps:

1. Rinse with Cold Water

Hold the stained area under cold running water and let the water flow through the back of the stain. This helps push the blood out of the fabric fibers. Continue rinsing until most of the blood is removed.

2. Apply Salt or Baking Soda

Salt and baking soda are natural stain removers that work well on fresh blood stains.

• Salt Method: Make a thick paste with salt and a small amount of cold water, then apply it directly onto the stain. Gently rub it in, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with cold water.

• Baking Soda Method: Mix baking soda with water to form a paste and apply it to the stain. Leave it for 30 minutes, then rinse with cold water.

3. Use Liquid Laundry Detergent

Apply a small amount of liquid laundry detergent directly to the stain. Gently rub the detergent into the fabric with your fingers, making sure it penetrates the fibers. Leave it for 5-10 minutes, then rinse with cold water.

4. Launder as Usual

After treating the stain, wash the garment in the washing machine on a cold cycle with regular detergent. Avoid using hot water, as it may set any remaining traces of the stain.

How to Remove Dried Blood Stains

Dried blood stains are more challenging to remove, as the blood has had time to bond with the fabric. However, you can still tackle dried stains with the following methods:

1. Soak in Cold Water

Soak the stained garment in a bowl or sink filled with cold water for at least 30-60 minutes. This helps rehydrate the blood stain, making it easier to treat. If the stain is particularly stubborn, leave it to soak overnight.

2. Use Hydrogen Peroxide (for Light-Coloured Fabrics)

Hydrogen peroxide is an effective stain remover but should be used with caution, especially on coloured fabrics as it may bleach the fabric. This method is best for light or white clothing.

• Apply a small amount of hydrogen peroxide directly onto the stain.

• Let it fizz and bubble, which helps lift the blood out of the fabric.

• Blot the stain with a clean cloth, then rinse with cold water.

3. Apply Baking Soda or Salt Paste

Mix a thick paste of baking soda or salt with water and apply it to the stain. Allow it to sit for 30 minutes, then gently scrub the area with a soft brush or toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly with cold water.

4. Use Meat Tenderiser (for Persistent Stains)

Meat tenderiser can break down the proteins in dried blood, making it easier to remove.

• Sprinkle a small amount of meat tenderiser powder onto the stain.

• Add a few drops of water to form a paste, then let it sit for 15-20 minutes.

• Rinse with cold water and wash as usual.

5. Finish with Detergent and a Cold Wash

Apply liquid detergent directly to the stain, rub it in gently, then wash the garment in cold water. If any trace of the stain remains, avoid drying the garment until the stain is fully removed.

Alternative Methods for Stubborn Blood Stains

If traditional methods don’t work, here are a few alternative approaches to consider:

• White Vinegar: Dab white vinegar onto the stain, let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then rinse with cold water. This can be particularly effective on stubborn stains.

• Aspirin Paste: Crush an aspirin tablet and mix it with water to form a paste. Apply it to the stain, leave for 30 minutes, then rinse and wash as usual.

• Enzyme-Based Stain Remover: Enzyme cleaners are effective at breaking down protein-based stains like blood. Apply according to the product’s instructions, then rinse and wash.

Tips for Preventing Blood Stains from Setting

1. Treat Stains Promptly: The faster you treat a blood stain, the easier it is to remove. Dried stains are harder to deal with, so act quickly whenever possible.

2. Avoid Heat: Never use hot water or a dryer until the stain is fully removed, as heat will set the stain permanently into the fabric.

3. Blot, Don’t Rub: Always blot blood stains rather than rubbing them. Rubbing can push the stain deeper into the fibers, making it more difficult to remove.

4. Repeat if Necessary: Blood stains are protein-based and may require multiple treatments. Don’t be afraid to repeat the steps until the stain is gone.

When to Seek Professional Help

For delicate fabrics like silk or wool, or for particularly valuable items, it may be best to take the garment to a professional cleaner. They have specialised products and techniques for handling difficult stains and can work with delicate fabrics without causing damage.

Removing blood stains from clothes can be tricky, but with patience and the right methods, you can successfully lift the stain and restore your garment. By acting quickly, using cold water, and choosing appropriate stain removers, you’ll have a good chance of completely removing both fresh and dried blood stains.