A blood stain is one of the top unsightly stains there is, and one of the most notoriously stubborn as well. What doesn’t help is that there are plenty of stain removal tricks that work for other types of stains, but for this, can make a blood stain permanent. Luckily, there are ways to get rid of blood, whether it’s fresh or dry, by using the methods described below.
What Makes Blood Stains so Tough to Remove Anyway?
Blood stains are tricky because it’s the proteins in blood that bond with the fibers in most fabrics, meaning that the stain isn’t just on the surface of the material. One of the most common and worst mistakes is trying to remove a stain with hot water, as heat can “set” the stain permanently, by basically baking it into the material. So, if you do see a blood stain, the last thing you want to do is run it under hot water or throw it in the washing machine on a warm or hot cycle. Similarly, never throw it into the dryer as this can also make the stain permanent.
What is the Process of Removing a Blood Stain from Clothing?
We have two different methods for removing a blood stain, since the stain can require a different process depending on if it’s fresh or if it’s dried.
Method #1: For a Fresh Blood Stain
Step #1: Soak the Item in Cold Water
First off, you want to soak the item in cold water as soon as you notice it. If it’s a piece of clothing, sheets or a pillowcase, just throw the item into a sink. If it’s a carpet or a piece of upholstery, then slowly pour cold water onto the stain until it’s saturated.
Step #2: Apply Some Salt or Soap
Now, you can apply some salt, some gentle Grab Green Liquid Dish Soap, or a combination of the two. Saturate the stain as much as possible with either material, and then massage it in using your palms. Keep doing this while keeping the fabric under cold running water, if possible, and the stain should start to fade pretty quickly, until it’s completely gone.
Final Step: Continue Massaging the Cleaning Agent into the Stain, Gently
If necessary, just keep massaging the stain as long as it takes to get rid of the blood.
For a Dried Blood Strain
Step #1: Apply Toothpaste to the Stain Using a Toothbrush
If the blood is dried, not all hope is lost. Spread a layer of toothpaste over the dried blood stain, using a toothbrush, massaging the toothpaste in using small circular motions (use a toothbrush that you won’t be putting back into your mouth, obviously). Let the toothpaste dry completely.
Step #2: Rinse with Cold Water
Now, run the stain under cold water to rinse away the toothpaste.
Final Step: Apply Soap and More Cold Water
Apply soap to the stain and use your finger to massage it in, all while it’s still running under cold water. Repeat if necessary.
