How to Remove Blood Stains
Written by Shannon, Owner and Founder of Long Island MaidsBlood stains seem intimidating, but they're actually one of the easier stains to remove—if you follow one crucial rule: cold water only. Here's everything you need to know.
Blood contains proteins that coagulate (cook and bind) when exposed to heat. Hot water will permanently set the stain. Always use cold water—the colder the better.
- Cold water
- Table salt
- Hydrogen peroxide (3%)
- Dish soap
- Enzyme-based stain remover
- Clean white cloths
Fresh Blood on Fabric
Rinse with Cold Water Immediately
Hold the fabric under cold running water, flushing from the back of the stain. This pushes the blood out rather than deeper into the fibers. Continue until water runs clear.
Apply Salt Paste
Make a paste with salt and cold water. Apply to any remaining stain and rub gently. Salt draws out blood and acts as a mild abrasive. Let sit 10-15 minutes.
Rinse and Check
Rinse with cold water. If the stain is gone, wash as normal in cold water. If it persists, move to the hydrogen peroxide treatment below.
Hydrogen Peroxide (For Light Fabrics)
Pour 3% hydrogen peroxide directly on the remaining stain. It will foam—that's the peroxide reacting with the blood. Let it foam for a few minutes, then blot and rinse with cold water.
Dried Blood Stains
Dried blood is harder but not impossible:
- Soak in cold water—submerge the item in cold water for at least 30 minutes (several hours is better)
- Apply enzyme cleaner—enzyme-based stain removers break down protein stains. Apply and let sit 15-30 minutes
- Gently agitate—rub the fabric against itself or use a soft brush
- Treat with peroxide if needed—for white/light fabrics
- Wash in cold water—check before drying; repeat if needed
Blood on Mattresses
- Blot fresh blood with a cold, damp cloth (don't saturate the mattress)
- Make a paste of salt and cold water, apply to stain
- Let sit 30 minutes, then blot away with a cold, damp cloth
- For remaining stain, apply hydrogen peroxide and blot (test first)
- Let air dry completely before putting sheets back on
Important: Don't over-wet a mattress—moisture trapped inside can cause mold.
Blood on Carpet
- Blot (don't rub) with a cold, damp cloth to remove excess
- Mix 1 tablespoon dish soap with 2 cups cold water
- Apply solution and blot, working from outside in
- Rinse by blotting with plain cold water
- For stubborn stains, apply hydrogen peroxide (test in hidden area first)
- Dry with a fan to prevent mold in carpet padding
Other Blood-Stain Solutions
- Meat tenderizer: Contains enzymes that break down proteins. Make a paste with cold water, apply for 30 minutes
- Aspirin: Dissolve 2-3 aspirin in cold water, soak the stain
- Contact lens solution: Contains saline and enzymes; good for small stains
- Ammonia: Mix 1 tablespoon with 1 cup cold water (don't use on wool or silk)
When All Else Fails
If the stain persists after multiple treatments:
- Try an oxygen-based bleach (OxiClean) soak overnight
- For white fabrics, you can try a diluted chlorine bleach solution as a last resort
- Consider professional cleaning for valuable items
Stubborn Stains Need Professional Help?
Our deep cleaning service includes stain treatment on carpets and upholstery with professional-grade products.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't I use hot water on blood stains?
Blood contains proteins that coagulate (cook and bind to fibers) when exposed to heat—just like cooking an egg. Hot water permanently sets the stain into the fabric. Always use cold water, the colder the better.
Does saliva really work on blood stains?
Yes, your own saliva contains enzymes that break down your own blood proteins. For small stains on fabric, applying your saliva and rubbing gently before washing can be surprisingly effective. This only works for your own blood.
Can dried blood stains be removed?
Yes, but they require more effort. Soak in cold water for at least 30 minutes, then apply enzyme cleaner or hydrogen peroxide (test first on colored fabrics). Multiple treatments may be needed.
Is hydrogen peroxide safe for all fabrics?
No—hydrogen peroxide can bleach colored fabrics. Always test on a hidden area first. For dark or delicate fabrics, use enzyme-based cleaners instead of peroxide.
What about blood on mattresses?
Blot with a cold damp cloth (don't saturate), apply salt paste, let sit 30 minutes, then blot clean. For remaining stains, apply hydrogen peroxide and blot. Air dry completely before putting sheets back on.
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