All About Blood Stains and How To Clean Them

A blood stain can be just about the worst type of stain to remove. Once dried, the blood almost cements itself to fabric. Washed in blood stains can be even more daunting as they can appear to be a lost cause. If you get a blood stain on your clothes, furniture or carpet, don’t worry because it can be removed. Accidents happen and a blood stain is incredibly common, but many people end up trashing the stained item instead of cleaning it. Lucky for you, there is a solution to the problem, and blood stains can be cleaned from most materials if you do it the right way.

The Best Way To Clean a Blood Stain

Blood stains are notorious for being tough to remove due to their composition and how they interact with various materials. Blood contains proteins, iron, and hemoglobin, which can bind to fibers and create stubborn stains. Understanding why blood stains are so difficult to clean, how to approach different materials, the time it takes, and the limitations with certain materials will help you tackle these challenging stains effectively.

Why Blood Stains Are Difficult to Remove

The unique make-up of blood is what makes it so hard to clean. It is a protein based stain that is organic by nature. Two main components are what make blood such a tricky stain. The protein called hemoglobin, which is a binding element, and iron, which gives blood its red color. When this protein is exposed to air and dries on clothing or other fibers, it actually binds to the material as it dries. The iron, which turns to a more brownish-red color, remains trapped in the hemoglobin, giving you a dark red stain that seems impossible to remove.

• Protein Content: Blood is rich in proteins, which coagulate and bind to fabrics and surfaces when exposed to air. This coagulation makes the stain set quickly and adhere firmly.
• Hemoglobin and Iron: Hemoglobin in blood contains iron, which can oxidize and leave behind a rust-colored stain, further complicating removal.
• Porosity and Absorption: Fabrics and porous materials can absorb blood deeply, making it hard to reach and remove all traces of the stain.

Cleaning Blood Stains: General Principles

1. Act Quickly: The sooner you treat a blood stain, the easier it will be to remove. Fresh stains are significantly easier to clean than dried ones.
2. Cold Water: Always use cold water for cleaning blood stains. Hot water can cause the proteins in the blood to set, making the stain harder to remove.
3. Blot, Don’t Rub: Blot the stain gently with a clean cloth to avoid spreading it further. Rubbing can push the blood deeper into the fibers.

Cleaning Methods for Different Materials

Fabric and Clothing

Fresh Stains:

• Cold Water Rinse: Rinse the stained area under cold running water as soon as possible.
• Detergent Solution: Apply a liquid detergent directly to the stain and gently rub it in. Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse with cold water.
• Hydrogen Peroxide: For white fabrics, dab a small amount of hydrogen peroxide onto the stain, let it fizz for a few minutes, and then rinse thoroughly. Test on an inconspicuous area first to avoid bleaching.

Dried Stains:

• Soak: Soak the stained fabric in cold water for several hours or overnight.
• Enzymatic Cleaner: Use an enzymatic laundry detergent designed to break down proteins. Apply it to the stain and let it sit for 15-30 minutes before washing.
• Vinegar and Baking Soda: Apply a paste of baking soda and cold water to the stain, let it sit for 30 minutes, then rinse with cold water. Follow up with a diluted vinegar rinse.

Upholstery and Carpets

Fresh Stains:

• Blotting: Blot the stain with a clean cloth dipped in cold water, working from the outside in to prevent spreading.
• Dish Soap Solution: Mix a teaspoon of dish soap with two cups of cold water. Apply the solution to the stain with a cloth, blotting gently. Rinse with cold water and blot dry.

Dried Stains:

• Hydrogen Peroxide: For light-colored upholstery, apply a small amount of hydrogen peroxide to the stain and blot with a cloth.
• Enzymatic Cleaner: Apply an enzymatic cleaner to the stain according to the product instructions. Blot with a clean cloth and rinse with cold water.

Mattresses

Fresh Stains:

• Cold Water and Blotting: Blot the stain with a cloth soaked in cold water.
• Hydrogen Peroxide: Apply hydrogen peroxide sparingly, blotting with a clean cloth.

Dried Stains:

• Baking Soda Paste: Make a paste of baking soda and cold water, apply to the stain, let it sit, and then vacuum it off.
• Enzymatic Cleaner: Use an enzymatic cleaner suitable for fabrics and follow the instructions.

Hard Surfaces (e.g., wood, tile)

Fresh Stains:

• Cold Water Wipe: Wipe the stain with a cloth soaked in cold water.
• Mild Detergent Solution: Mix a small amount of dish soap with cold water and clean the stain.

Dried Stains:

• Hydrogen Peroxide: For non-porous surfaces, use hydrogen peroxide to break down the stain.
• Baking Soda Paste: Apply a baking soda paste, let it sit, then scrub gently with a brush.

Time Required

• Fresh Stains: Can be removed in 10-30 minutes with prompt action.
• Dried Stains: May take several hours, including soaking time and repeated treatments.

Materials That May Not Be Cleanable

• Delicate Fabrics: Materials like silk and some woolens may be damaged by aggressive cleaning agents or excessive water. Professional cleaning may be necessary.
• Porous Materials: Highly porous materials like unfinished wood or some types of natural stone may absorb blood too deeply to be fully cleaned.
• Leather: Blood stains on leather can be tricky; it’s best to consult a professional cleaner to avoid damage.

Removing blood stains requires prompt action, the right cleaning agents, and appropriate techniques for different materials. By understanding the properties of blood and how it interacts with various surfaces, you can effectively tackle these tough stains. Always test cleaning solutions on an inconspicuous area first and be patient, as some stains may require multiple treatments. With the right approach, you can successfully clean blood stains from most materials and restore them to their original condition.

Is There Stuff You Can Buy To Help?

Yes, there are several commercial products specifically designed to help remove blood stains from various materials. These products often contain enzymes or other active ingredients that break down the proteins in blood, making it easier to clean the stains effectively. Here are some recommended products and their uses:

Enzymatic Cleaners

Nature’s Miracle Stain and Odor Remover

• Description: An enzymatic cleaner often used for pet stains, but effective on blood stains due to its protein-digesting enzymes.
• Uses: Suitable for carpets, upholstery, and fabrics. Follow the instructions for application, allowing the product to sit for the recommended time before blotting and rinsing.

Bio-OX Citrus Concentrate

• Description: A powerful enzymatic cleaner that is eco-friendly and safe for various surfaces.
• Uses: Effective on carpets, upholstery, and fabrics. Dilute as instructed and apply to the stain, allowing it to break down the blood proteins before rinsing.

Oxygen-Based Cleaners

OxiClean Versatile Stain Remover

• Description: An oxygen-based cleaner that releases oxygen to lift and remove stains.
• Uses: Mix with water to create a paste or solution. Suitable for fabrics, carpets, and hard surfaces. Apply to the stain, let it sit, then rinse or wash.

OxiClean MaxForce Spray

• Description: A pre-treatment spray containing multiple stain-fighting ingredients, including oxygen bleach.
• Uses: Spray directly on fabric stains, let it penetrate, and then wash as usual.

Hydrogen Peroxide-Based Cleaners

Clorox OxiMagic Multi-Purpose Stain Remover

• Description: Contains hydrogen peroxide and other cleaning agents to tackle tough stains.
• Uses: Safe for most fabrics and surfaces. Spray on the stain, let it sit, then blot or rinse.

Hydrogen Peroxide (3% solution)

• Description: A common household item that can be used directly on blood stains.
• Uses: Suitable for light-colored fabrics and some hard surfaces. Apply directly to the stain, let it fizz, and then blot with a clean cloth.

General Stain Removers

Fels-Naptha Laundry Bar

• Description: A traditional stain-removing soap that works well on protein-based stains.
• Uses: Wet the bar and rub it on the stain, let it sit, then rinse or launder as usual.

Zout Laundry Stain Remover

• Description: A liquid stain remover with enzymes designed to break down proteins.
• Uses: Apply directly to the stain, rub it in, let it sit, then wash as usual.

Specialty Cleaners

Carbona Stain Devils #4 (Blood, Dairy, and Ice Cream)

• Description: Formulated specifically for removing blood, dairy, and ice cream stains.
• Uses: Apply directly to the stain, follow instructions for the material type, and then rinse or wash.

Application Tips

1. Test on an Inconspicuous Area: Always test the product on a small, hidden area of the fabric or surface to ensure it doesn’t cause damage or discoloration.
2. Follow Instructions: Carefully read and follow the product instructions for best results.
3. Blot, Don’t Rub: Blot the stain gently to avoid spreading it further into the fibers.
4. Use Cold Water: For most products, using cold water will help prevent setting the stain.

There are many effective products available for removing blood stains, ranging from enzymatic cleaners to oxygen-based and hydrogen peroxide-based solutions. Choosing the right product depends on the type of material and the severity of the stain. With the proper use of these commercial products and the application tips provided, you can significantly increase your chances of successfully removing blood stains from a variety of surfaces.

Are There DIY Tips and Tricks That Can Help?

Yes, there are several effective DIY tips and tricks for removing blood stains using common household items. These methods are cost-effective and can be very efficient if applied correctly. Here’s a few DIY solutions that may be useful for tackling blood stains:

Immediate Actions

Cold Water Rinse:

• Method: Rinse the stained fabric under cold running water as soon as possible. This helps to flush out as much blood as possible before it sets.
• Why Cold Water? Hot water can cause the proteins in blood to coagulate, making the stain set more firmly.

Household Items and Solutions

Salt and Water Paste:

• Ingredients: Table salt and cold water.
• Method: Mix salt with a small amount of cold water to form a thick paste. Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for 10-20 minutes. Rinse with cold water and repeat if necessary.
• Effectiveness: Salt can help draw out moisture and blood from the fabric.

Baking Soda:

• Ingredients: Baking soda and cold water.
• Method: Sprinkle baking soda directly on the stain and add a few drops of cold water to create a paste. Let it sit for 30 minutes, then rinse with cold water.
• Effectiveness: Baking soda helps to lift and absorb the stain.

Hydrogen Peroxide:

• Ingredients: 3% hydrogen peroxide.
• Method: Apply a small amount of hydrogen peroxide directly to the stain. Let it fizz and bubble for a few minutes, then blot with a clean cloth and rinse with cold water. Repeat if necessary.
• Effectiveness: Hydrogen peroxide is a mild bleaching agent that breaks down the proteins in blood. Use with caution on colored fabrics as it can cause bleaching.

White Vinegar:

• Ingredients: White vinegar and cold water.
• Method: Apply white vinegar directly to the stain and let it soak for 10-15 minutes. Blot with a clean cloth and rinse with cold water.
• Effectiveness: Vinegar helps to break down blood stains and is safe for most fabrics.

Dish Soap and Cold Water:

• Ingredients: Liquid dish soap and cold water.
• Method: Mix a few drops of dish soap with cold water. Apply the solution to the stain and gently rub it in with your fingers or a soft brush. Rinse with cold water.
• Effectiveness: Dish soap breaks down oils and proteins, making it effective for blood stains.

Ammonia Solution:

• Ingredients: Ammonia and cold water.
• Method: Mix one tablespoon of ammonia with half a cup of cold water. Apply the solution to the stain with a sponge or cloth. Blot the area and rinse thoroughly with cold water.
• Effectiveness: Ammonia helps to lift and dissolve blood stains. Use in a well-ventilated area and avoid using on wool or silk.

Meat Tenderizer:

• Ingredients: Unseasoned meat tenderizer and cold water.
• Method: Sprinkle unseasoned meat tenderizer on the damp stain and gently rub it in. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then rinse with cold water.
• Effectiveness: Meat tenderizer contains enzymes that break down proteins, making it useful for blood stains.

Materials and Considerations

Clothing and Fabrics:

• Cold Water Rinse: Start with a cold water rinse.
• Hydrogen Peroxide: Use cautiously on light-colored fabrics.
• Dish Soap and Vinegar: Safe for most fabrics.

Upholstery and Carpets:

• Blotting: Blot with a cold water and dish soap solution.
• Baking Soda: Sprinkle on the stain, let sit, and vacuum.

Mattresses:

• Cold Water Blotting: Blot with cold water and a clean cloth.
• Vinegar and Baking Soda: Apply vinegar, blot, and then sprinkle baking soda to deodorize.

Hard Surfaces (e.g., wood, tile):

• Cold Water Wipe: Wipe with a cloth soaked in cold water.
• Dish Soap Solution: Clean with a mixture of dish soap and cold water.

Time Required

• Immediate Action: 5-10 minutes for initial rinsing and blotting.
• DIY Treatments: 10-30 minutes for application and soaking, plus additional time for repeating treatments if necessary.
• Dried Stains: Several hours, including soaking and repeated treatments.

Limitations

1. Delicate Fabrics: Silk and some wool fabrics can be damaged by aggressive cleaning methods and should be handled with care.
2. Porous Materials: Highly porous materials like unfinished wood may absorb blood too deeply for complete removal.
3. Leather: Blood stains on leather can be tricky; it’s best to consult a professional cleaner.

Removing blood stains using DIY methods is highly effective if done promptly and correctly. Cold water rinsing, common household items like baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, white vinegar, and dish soap, along with careful blotting and soaking techniques, can help tackle most blood stains. However, always test these solutions on an inconspicuous area first and handle delicate materials with care. By following these guidelines, you can successfully remove blood stains from a variety of surfaces and fabrics.

An Easy and Effective Way To Clean Any Blood Stain

If warm or hot water is applied to the area, it will cause the protein to fix itself even stronger to the fibers. This is why you should always use cold water when working with a blood stain. To completely remove it, you’ll need a cleaner that will break apart the protein component of the blood, so that it will release the iron, and come clean.

Quick’n Brite is the perfect cleaner for removing blood stains. It is an enzyme cleaner, so it’s specialty is breaking apart organic stains. The enzymes in Quick’n Brite will actually break the bond between the hemoglobin and the fibers, allowing you to completely remove the blood stain. This all-natural cleaner is completely non-toxic and biodegradable. It also contains no chemicals, so you don’t have to worry about it ruining any fabrics.

Cleaning Blood Stains On Clothing

1. To clean stains on clothing, rinse the garment in cold water first.
2. Then apply Quick’n Brite Paste, full strength directly to the stain.
3. Fold the material in on itself, trapping the cleaner and stain between the layers of fabric.
4. Rub the fabric together briskly until the stain loosens.
5. Once the stain begins to lift out of the material, wipe clean with a dry terry cloth towel, or put the clothing into the wash for cleaning.
6. For really tough blood stains, or ones that have been washed in, use Quick’n Brite and soak the garment overnight.
7. Use 3/4 cup of Quick’n Brite for every one gallon of water, and let it sit for 8 hours or so, for washing the next day.

Cleaning Blood Stains On Floors, Carpet Or Upholstery

1. To clean a blood stain on furniture or carpets or anywhere else, simply use a slightly different method.
2. Lightly wet the affected area, making sure to blot or otherwise remove excess blood.
3. Take some Quick’n Brite and use it full strength directly on the stain.
4. Work the cleaner in using your fingernail, a toothbrush, or something similar.
5. Use an up and down, then left and right motion.
6. You will instantly begin to see the blood stain lifting from the material.
7. Once the stain is loose, take a dry terry cloth towel and wipe the area clean.
8. The blood stain will transfer itself onto the towel and your carpet, furniture, etc. will be completely clean.
9. Depending on the degree and age of the blood stain in question, you may have to repeat this process for best results.

There is no blood stain too tough for Quick’n Brite, and it comes with a full money back guarantee. Quick’n Brite is truly the only cleaner you need. It works great for removing blood stains, but it also has hundreds of other uses for all over your home. It’s a fantastic cleaner and it’s environmentally friendly. What more could you ask for?

Bonus Info: What Gives Blood It’s Dark Red Color Anyway?

Blood’s dark red color is primarily due to the presence of hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells. Hemoglobin is responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body and carrying carbon dioxide back to the lungs to be exhaled. Here’s a detailed explanation of the factors that contribute to blood’s characteristic color:

The Role of Hemoglobin

Hemoglobin Structure:

• Composition: Hemoglobin is a complex protein composed of four subunits, each containing a heme group.
• Heme Group: The heme group contains an iron atom at its center, which can bind to one molecule of oxygen.

Oxygenation States:

• Oxyhemoglobin: When hemoglobin binds to oxygen, it forms oxyhemoglobin, which gives blood a bright red color. This is the form of hemoglobin found in arterial blood, which is rich in oxygen.
• Deoxyhemoglobin: When hemoglobin releases oxygen, it becomes deoxyhemoglobin, which gives blood a darker, more bluish-red color. This is the form found in venous blood, which is returning to the lungs for oxygenation.

Factors Affecting Blood Color

Oxygen Levels:

• High Oxygen Levels: Arterial blood, which is oxygen-rich, appears bright red due to the abundance of oxyhemoglobin.
• Low Oxygen Levels: Venous blood, which has lower oxygen levels, appears darker red or bluish-red due to the presence of deoxyhemoglobin.

Blood Flow and Pressure:

• Capillary Bed: As blood passes through the capillaries, oxygen is delivered to tissues, and the blood becomes darker as it loses oxygen.
• Venous Return: Blood returning to the heart through veins is darker because it carries less oxygen and more carbon dioxide.

Medical Conditions:

• Hypoxia: Conditions that result in low oxygen levels in the blood (hypoxia) can make the blood appear darker.
• Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: When carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin, forming carboxyhemoglobin, it can cause the blood to appear bright red, even though oxygen delivery is impaired.

Variations in Blood Color

Bright Red Blood:

• Arterial Blood: Rich in oxygen, typically seen in bleeding from arteries or during oxygen-rich phases of circulation.

Dark Red or Bluish Blood:

• Venous Blood: Lower in oxygen, typically seen in bleeding from veins or during oxygen-depleted phases of circulation.

Color Changes During Bleeding:

• Fresh Blood: Initially, blood appears bright red when it first exits the body due to exposure to oxygen.
• Dried Blood: As blood dries, it becomes darker and brownish due to oxidation and coagulation processes.

Hemoglobin and Its Color Properties

Absorption Spectrum:

• Light Absorption: Hemoglobin absorbs light at specific wavelengths, which determines its color. Oxyhemoglobin absorbs light in the blue-green spectrum, reflecting red light, which makes it appear bright red.
• Deoxyhemoglobin Absorption: Deoxyhemoglobin absorbs more light in the red spectrum, reflecting less red light, which makes it appear darker.

The dark red color of blood is primarily due to the presence of hemoglobin and its varying oxygenation states. Oxyhemoglobin, which carries oxygen, gives blood a bright red color, while deoxyhemoglobin, which has released its oxygen, gives blood a darker, more bluish-red hue. Factors such as oxygen levels, blood flow, and medical conditions can affect the exact shade of red observed. Understanding these factors helps explain the dynamic and essential role of hemoglobin in the body’s circulatory system.

Got a tip, trick or product not mentioned here? Share your blood stain advice in the comments section below.

Products Mentioned

• Quick’n Brite