To get blood out of clothes effectively, follow these expert-recommended steps:
Immediate Action
- Rinse the blood stain under cold water as soon as possible to flush out fresh blood. Avoid hot water because it sets the protein in blood, making the stain permanent
For Fresh Blood Stains
- After rinsing, apply bar soap directly to the stain and rub gently.
- Alternatively, use hydrogen peroxide by dabbing it on the stain with a cloth (test on a hidden area first as it can bleach fabrics). For heavy stains on colorfast fabrics, you can apply hydrogen peroxide directly or soak the stain briefly
- Use an enzyme-containing liquid laundry detergent or a laundry pre-treater on the stain.
- Wash the garment in cold or warm water with fabric-safe bleach if appropriate
For Dried or Stubborn Blood Stains
- Soak the garment for several hours or overnight in cold water mixed with salt (1-2 tablespoons per liter) or a laundry detergent solution to rehydrate and loosen the stain
- Apply a baking soda paste (2 parts baking soda to 1 part water) to the stain and leave it for up to 30 minutes before blotting and washing
- Use a stain remover soak or a mixture of water, detergent, and a small amount of ammonia for tough stains, soaking for several hours
- If stains persist, repeat the soaking and treating steps before washing again
Additional Tips
- Avoid rubbing the stain harshly as it can embed blood deeper into fabric fibers
- Always check fabric care labels and test stain removers on inconspicuous areas first.
- For delicate fabrics like wool or silk, avoid enzyme detergents and harsh chemicals
- If all else fails, consider professional dry cleaning
By following these steps—starting with cold water rinsing, then treating with soap, hydrogen peroxide, or baking soda, and soaking if needed—you can effectively remove blood stains from most clothes
