How To Get Blood Out Of Clothes: 6 Different Ways

Removing blood stains from clothes can be a challenging task, but with the right techniques, it can be accomplished effectively. Accidental spills or small cuts can leave stubborn marks, but quick action can prevent them from becoming permanent.

How To Get Blood Out Of Clothes

Several methods can help eliminate blood stains, depending on the fabric type and stain severity. One common approach involves treating the stain with cold water and gently blotting it.

Alternatively, enzymatic stain removers or hydrogen peroxide can be used for more stubborn stains. Pre-soaking in cold water or applying a paste of baking soda and water are other effective options. By following these techniques promptly and carefully, you can increase the chances of successfully getting blood out of clothes.

Does Blood Stain Clothes Permanently?

Blood stains on clothes can potentially become permanent if they are not promptly and properly treated. When blood dries, it can form a bond with the fabric fibers, making it more challenging to remove.

The longer a blood stain remains untreated, the more difficult it becomes to remove it completely. It is important to address blood stains as soon as possible by rinsing the affected area with cold water and applying appropriate stain removal techniques.

However, certain fabrics and dyes may be more prone to permanent staining, and in some cases, professional cleaning or specialized stain removal products may be necessary to minimize or remove the stain entirely.

Does Blood Come Out of Clothes?

Yes, blood can come out of clothes, but the ease with which it can be removed depends on several factors, such as the fabric type, the nature of the stain, and the promptness of the treatment.

If blood stains are fresh, it’s generally easier to remove them compared to dried stains. Immediate action should be taken to prevent the stain from setting. Rinse the affected area with cold water, then apply a mild detergent or stain remover directly to the stain, gently rubbing it in.

Afterward, launder the garment according to the care instructions. For stubborn or older stains, it may require additional treatment or professional cleaning to completely remove the blood.

How To Get Blood Out Of Clothes? Different Ways

Removing blood stains from clothes can be a bit challenging, but there are several effective methods you can try. Here’s a step-by-step guide outlining different ways to get blood out of clothes:

Method 1: Cold Water and Salt

  1. Act quickly: The sooner you address the stain, the better your chances of removing it completely.
  2. Rinse with cold water: Hold the stained area under cold running water to flush out as much blood as possible. Avoid using warm or hot water, as it can set the stain.
  3. Make a saltwater solution: Dissolve 2 tablespoons of salt in 1 cup of cold water.
  4. Soak the garment: Submerge the stained area in the saltwater solution for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can dampen a clean cloth with the solution and blot the stain.
  5. Rinse and check: After soaking, rinse the garment thoroughly with cold water. Inspect the stain to see if it has lightened. If not, proceed to the next method.

Method 2: Hydrogen Peroxide

  1. Check for colorfastness: Before using hydrogen peroxide, test it on an inconspicuous area of the fabric to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage.
  2. Pour hydrogen peroxide: Pour a small amount of 3% hydrogen peroxide directly onto the blood stain. You can also soak a clean cloth in hydrogen peroxide and dab it onto the stain.
  3. Blot and repeat: Gently blot the stain with a clean cloth or paper towel. Continue applying hydrogen peroxide and blotting until the stain lightens.
  4. Rinse with cold water: Thoroughly rinse the garment with cold water to remove any remaining peroxide.

Method 3: Enzyme-based Stain Removers

  1. Read the instructions: Purchase an enzyme-based stain remover specifically designed for blood stains and follow the instructions on the product.
  2. Apply the stain remover: Pour or spray the product directly onto the stain, ensuring it’s saturated. Allow it to sit for the recommended duration mentioned in the instructions.
  3. Wash as usual: Launder the garment following the care instructions on the clothing label. Check the stain after washing, and if necessary, repeat the process or try an alternative method.

Additional Tips:

  • Avoid using warm or hot water, as it can set the blood stain.
  • Don’t rub the stain vigorously, as it can push the blood further into the fabric fibers.
  • Use a white cloth or paper towel to avoid color transfer from the cloth to the stain.
  • For delicate fabrics or items labeled “dry clean only,” it’s best to take them to a professional cleaner.

Method 4: Meat Tenderizer

  1. Make a paste: Mix meat tenderizer with a small amount of water to create a paste-like consistency.
  2. Apply the paste: Spread the paste over the blood stain and gently rub it in. Allow it to sit for about 15 minutes.
  3. Rinse and launder: Rinse the garment with cold water to remove the paste. Launder the item as usual, following the care instructions.

Method 5: Ammonia

Note: This method should only be used on white or colorfast fabrics, as ammonia can cause discoloration.

  1. Dilute the ammonia: Mix one part ammonia with two parts cold water.
  2. Sponge the stain: Dampen a clean cloth or sponge with the diluted ammonia solution and gently blot the blood stain. Be sure to work from the outside of the stain towards the center.
  3. Rinse and launder: Rinse the garment thoroughly with cold water. Launder the item as usual.

Method 6: Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide

  1. Make a paste: Create a paste by mixing equal parts baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. For example, 1 tablespoon of each should be sufficient.
  2. Apply the paste: Spread the paste over the blood stain, ensuring it covers the entire affected area. Allow it to sit for about 30 minutes.
  3. Rinse and launder: Rinse the garment with cold water to remove the paste. Launder the item as usual.

Remember to always spot test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before applying it to the stain. This will help ensure that the solution doesn’t cause any unwanted damage or discoloration to the clothing.

How To Remove Old Blood Stains From Clothes?

Removing old blood stains from clothes can be challenging, but with the right approach, it is possible to minimize or eliminate the stain. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to remove old blood stains from clothes:

Act quickly:

It’s always easier to remove fresh blood stains, so try to address the stain as soon as possible.

Pre-treat the stain:

Start by gently blotting the stained area with a clean cloth or paper towel to absorb any excess blood. Avoid rubbing, as it can push the stain deeper into the fabric.

Rinse with cold water:

Hold the stained fabric under cold running water, allowing the water to flow through the backside of the stain. The cold water helps to loosen the blood particles.

Apply a stain remover or detergent:

After rinsing, apply a small amount of liquid laundry detergent or a specialized stain remover directly to the stained area. Gently rub the detergent into the fabric with your fingers or a soft brush, working it into the fibers. Leave it to sit for about 5-10 minutes.

Wash in cold water:

Place the garment in the washing machine and wash it in cold water. Avoid using warm or hot water, as heat can set the stain. Follow the instructions on the garment’s care label for washing.

Check the stain before drying:

After the wash cycle is complete, inspect the stained area to see if the blood stain has been fully removed. If the stain persists, repeat the previous steps before drying.

Avoid heat drying:

If the stain is still visible, avoid drying the garment using heat, as heat can set the stain permanently. Instead, air-dry the garment, either by hanging it or laying it flat on a clean towel.

Check the stain again:

Once the garment is dry, check the stained area to see if the stain has completely disappeared. If any remnants of the stain remain, you may need to repeat the stain removal process or try alternative methods like using hydrogen peroxide or enzyme-based cleaners.

Remember to always read and follow the instructions on the garment’s care label and the stain remover product you are using. Additionally, it’s a good idea to test any stain remover or cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before applying it to the stain directly.

How To Get Period Stains Out Of Clothes?

To remove period stains from clothes, you can follow these step-by-step instructions:

Act quickly:

The sooner you attend to the stain, the easier it will be to remove. Don’t let the stain set.

Rinse with cold water:

Start by rinsing the stained area under cold water. Avoid using hot water, as it can set the stain.

Pre-treat the stain:

There are a few options for pre-treating the stain:

  • Apply hydrogen peroxide: Pour a small amount of hydrogen peroxide directly onto the stain and let it sit for a few minutes.
  • Use a stain remover: Apply a stain remover directly to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes. Make sure to check the instructions on the stain remover bottle for any specific guidelines.
  • Create a paste with baking soda and water: Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to create a paste. Apply the paste to the stain and gently rub it in.

Gently scrub:

After pre-treating the stain, gently scrub the area with a soft brush or an old toothbrush. Be careful not to damage the fabric.

Launder as usual:

Wash the garment according to the care instructions on the label. Use cold water and an appropriate laundry detergent. Check the care instructions to determine the appropriate wash cycle and temperature for the fabric.

Check for any remaining stain:

After washing, check the stained area to see if the stain has been completely removed. If a faint stain remains, repeat the process or try an alternative stain removal method.

Important tips:

  • Avoid using hot water as it can set the stain.
  • Always check the care instructions on the garment before using any cleaning methods or products.
  • If you’re unsure about a specific fabric, it’s a good idea to test the stain removal method on a small, inconspicuous area of the garment first.

Remember, it’s important to act quickly to prevent the stain from setting, and different fabrics may require slightly different stain removal techniques.

How to Remove Blood Stains from White Clothing?

Removing blood stains from white clothing can be challenging, but with the right techniques, it is possible to achieve good results. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you remove blood stains from white clothing:

Act quickly:

The sooner you address the stain, the better chance you have of removing it completely. Fresh stains are easier to treat than dried ones.

Rinse with cold water:

Hold the stained area under cold running water to flush out as much blood as possible. Avoid using warm or hot water, as it can set the stain.

Soak in cold water:

Fill a basin or sink with cold water and add a small amount of salt or enzyme-based laundry detergent. Submerge the stained clothing in the solution and let it soak for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for stubborn stains. If using salt, dissolve it in the water before adding the clothing.

Gently rub the stain:

After soaking, remove the clothing from the water and gently rub the stained area between your fingers or use a soft brush to loosen the blood particles. Be careful not to scrub too vigorously, as it can damage the fabric.

Apply stain remover:

If the stain persists, apply a stain remover directly to the affected area. There are various commercial stain removers available, or you can make a homemade solution using a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and liquid dish soap. Let the stain remover sit for a few minutes to penetrate the fabric.

Launder as usual:

Wash the clothing in cold water using a regular laundry detergent. Check the care label to ensure the garment can be laundered in the washing machine. For delicate fabrics or if you’re unsure, consider hand-washing instead.

Check before drying:

Once the wash cycle is complete, inspect the stained area before drying. If the stain is still visible, repeat the steps above before drying the garment, as heat from drying can set the stain permanently.

Air dry in the sun:

If the stain is completely removed, hang the clothing to air dry in direct sunlight if possible. Sunlight has natural bleaching properties that can further aid in stain removal.

Evaluate and repeat if necessary:

After drying, check the clothing again for any remaining traces of the stain. If there is still discoloration, repeat the process or consider using alternative stain removal methods.

Remember, it’s important to always follow the care instructions on the clothing label and test any stain removal method on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before applying it to the stained area.

How To Get Blood Out Of Colored Clothes?

Removing blood stains from colored clothes can be a bit tricky, but there are several methods you can try. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get blood out of colored clothes:

Act quickly:

The sooner you treat the stain, the easier it will be to remove. Try to address the stain as soon as possible after it occurs.

Rinse with cold water:

Hold the stained area under cold, running water to flush out as much blood as possible. Avoid using hot water, as it can set the stain.

Pre-treat the stain:

There are a few options for pre-treating the blood stain:

  • Saltwater solution: Dissolve 2 tablespoons of salt in a cup of cold water. Soak the stained area in the saltwater solution for about 15 minutes before rinsing.
  • Liquid detergent: Apply a small amount of liquid detergent directly to the stain and gently rub it in. Allow the detergent to sit on the stain for a few minutes.
  • Hydrogen peroxide: This method is suitable for white or colorfast clothes only. Apply a small amount of hydrogen peroxide (3% concentration) to the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with cold water.

Wash the garment:

After pre-treating the stain, wash the clothing as you normally would. Use the appropriate water temperature and follow the care instructions on the clothing label. If the garment is machine washable, consider using an enzyme-based laundry detergent, as it can be effective in breaking down protein-based stains like blood.

Check the stain before drying:

Avoid drying the clothing in a dryer if the stain is still visible after washing. The heat from the dryer can set the stain, making it more difficult to remove. Instead, air dry the garment and check the stain. If it’s still there, repeat the treatment steps before washing again.

Seek professional help if needed:

If the stain persists after trying these methods, it may be best to take the garment to a professional cleaner. Inform them of the nature of the stain and the fabric type, so they can handle it appropriately.

Remember, it’s important to always check the care label on your clothing for any specific instructions or restrictions before attempting stain removal.

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Final Words:

To effectively remove blood stains from clothes, act promptly. Start by rinsing the stained area with cold water to remove excess blood. Then, apply a mixture of cold water and salt or hydrogen peroxide to the stain, gently scrubbing with a clean cloth.

Alternatively, enzyme-based laundry detergents or stain removers designed for blood stains can be effective. Soaking the garment in cold water with detergent or using a paste of baking soda and water are also options.

Always check the care label and wash promptly. For stubborn stains, consider professional cleaning. Avoid hot water and heat, as they can set the stain.

Hi, I'm Robert Jameson. I'm a textile engineer. As a textile engineer, I design & create fabric. When I'm not busy with my family members, I research, write, and edit content for Fabric Fits.

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