Accidentally put a bloodstain on your favorite shirt or pants? This is not uncommon. Removing blood from fabrics may seem like a daunting task, but a few simple methods will help you get rid of this trouble quickly and efficiently. In this article, we’ve compiled five of the best methods to help remove blood from clothes.
How to Remove Blood Stains with Cold Water
The first and most crucial rule for removing blood stains is to use cold water. High temperatures can cause hemoglobin to set into the fabric, making it harder to remove. Hot water can worsen the stain, so avoid it. If you notice a fresh blood stain, here’s what to do:
- Rinse the stain under cold running water immediately, which helps remove some of the blood from the fabric surface.
- If the stain persists, leave the clothing soaked in cold water for 30 minutes.
- After soaking, wash the garment by hand or in a washing machine.
Make sure to wash it in temperatures no higher than 30 degrees Celsius.
How to Remove Blood Stains Using Salt
Salt is an affordable and effective tool that works well with blood stains. You can cover the fresh stain with salt. It is a good absorbent, so it will immediately remove some of the blood from the fabric. After that, the garment should be washed with salt:
- Mix 2-3 teaspoons of salt with a small amount of water to form a paste.
- Apply the paste to the stain and gently rub it in.
- Leave it for 15-20 minutes, then rinse with cold water and wash.
Salt can be effective on older stains too, though you may need to repeat the process.
How to Remove Blood Stains with Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a good option for removing blood stains on light-colored fabrics. It breaks down proteins, helping to lift the stain. However, be cautious, as it may bleach some materials. Test hydrogen peroxide on a hidden area first. If the color stays intact, proceed as follows:
- Apply a few drops of hydrogen peroxide to the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
- Blot the fabric gently with a clean cloth and rinse with cold water.
This method works best on fresh stains, but can be effective on older stains as well.
How to Remove Blood Stains Using Baking Soda
Baking soda is another great stain remover. Like salt, it is an excellent absorbent. If you pour soda on fresh blood, it will immediately begin to lose color. And how to remove blood from clothes if it has already dried? You can also try baking soda::
- Mix baking soda with water in a 1:2 ratio to make a paste.
- Apply the paste to the stain and leave for 30 minutes.
- Rinse the paste off with cold water, then wash as usual.
If the stain doesn’t come out on the first try, you can repeat the process.
How to Remove Blood Stains with Dish Soap
Dishwashing detergent is specially formulated to fight organic dirt. It dissolves proteins and fats perfectly, so it is also effective for removing blood stains. To remove blood from clothes, follow this algorithm:
- Apply a few drops of dish soap to the damp stain.
- Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then scrub gently with a soft brush or cloth.
- Rinse with cold water and wash.
Fresh stains are easily removed with this method, although older stains may require several attempts.
Helpful Tips for Removing Blood Stains
Removing blood stains can be tricky, but with the right techniques, it’s possible. Here are some additional tips:
- Avoid hot water. High temperatures make stains more challenging to remove.
- Don’t dry or iron clothes until the stain is gone, as heat can set the stain permanently.
- Always test on a hidden area to ensure the method won’t damage the fabric’s color or texture.
- Avoid chlorine bleach, as it can worsen blood stains on colored fabrics.
How to Remove Blood Stains from Clothes – Video Guide
For a visual guide on removing blood stains, watch this video:
Conclusion
Removing blood stains from clothes can be easier than it seems when you know the right methods. We’ve shared simple, effective techniques using affordable household items. By following these steps and tips, you can restore your clothes to their original condition without hassle.
FAQs About How to Remove Blood Stains
For older stains, try soaking the item in cold water with glycerin. Specialized stain removers are also helpful if regular washing doesn’t work.
Chlorine bleach is not recommended for blood stains as it can damage fabric and even worsen the stain, especially on colored fabrics.
If the stain persists after washing, try soaking the item in hydrogen peroxide or a stain remover solution before washing again.