Accidents Happen - How To Remove Blood Stains From Clothes

Question: How do I remove blood stains from clothes?

Accidents happen that result in blood stains that need to be removed from clothes and other fabrics. Here's how to remove those blood stains:

Answer:

As soon as possible flush the blood stain with cold water - NEVER hot water. All fresh protein stains like blood can be removed by soaking and agitating or rubbing the stain in cold water before washing.

These stains contain other ingredients but protein needs treatment first. Never use hot water because it cooks the protein making the stain hard to remove.

If the stain is dried or old, scape or brush off any crusted matter, then soak in a solution of cool water and oxygen-based bleach (OxiClean, Clorox 2, Country Save Bleach or Purex 2 Color Safe Bleach are brand names). Submerge the fabric and allow to soak at least an hour or overnight. Then wash as usual, in warm or cold water with detergent. Check the stained area and if the stain remains, do place the garment in the dryer. The high heat can set the stain. Treat again by soaking, then rewash.

If the garment is dry clean only, point out and identify the stain to your professional cleaner. If you are using a home dry cleaning kit, be sure to treat the stain with the provided stain remover before putting the garment in the dryer bag.

For more stain removal tips: Stain Removal A to Z

Be a part of the Laundry Community