Whether it's a paper cut gone rogue, a kitchen mishap, or an unexpected scrape, blood on clothes means one thing: act fast. Blood stains are notoriously stubborn because of the proteins in the blood which bind to the fibers in fabric.
That’s why acting quickly is key—fresh blood can still be coaxed out, but once it dries, those proteins harden, and you’re in for a tougher battle. Each type of stain needs its own strategy, so let’s break it down before that stain becomes a permanent part of your wardrobe
Pro tip: Always check the care label on your garment before rushing into any blood stain removal techniques to ensure the supplies you’re using won’t damage the fabric.
How to Get Fresh Blood Out of Clothes
Fresh blood stains may seem like a laundry nightmare, but the quicker you act, the better your odds of saving your clothes. Follow these steps to tackle the stain before it sets.
1. Rinse with Cold Water
As soon as you spot the stain, hold the fabric under cold running water. The key is cold—hot water will cook those proteins and make the stain worse. Let the water run through the back of the fabric to push the blood out.
2. Blot the Stain, Don’t Rub It
Grab a clean cloth or paper towel and gently blot the stain. Rubbing will just push the blood deeper into the fabric, which is the last thing you need.
3. Apply Soap or Stain Remover
Use a mild soap or a stain remover like hydrogen peroxide, if it's safe for the fabric. Dab it on the stain and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes to break down the proteins.
4. Rinse Again with Cold Water
Rinse thoroughly to wash out the soap or stain remover, along with any remaining blood. Again, cold water is your friend here.
5. Machine Wash as Usual
Toss the garment into the washing machine, using cold water and an enzyme-based laundry pod. Check the stain before drying—if it's still there, repeat the process. Drying will set the stain for good, so make sure it’s completely gone first.
How to Get Dried Blood Out of Clothes
Dried blood stains are a bit tougher to handle because those stubborn proteins have had time to set into the fabric. But all hope isn’t lost—just follow these steps to break down the stain and get your clothes looking as good as new.
1. Soak in Cold Water
Start by soaking the stained fabric in a mixture of cold water and a stain-remover for at least an hour. This will help loosen up the dried blood and make it easier to treat.
2. Apply a Stain Remover or Soap
After soaking, grab a stain remover or some dish soap and pre-treat the blood stain. If you're using soap, rub it in gently. You want to give those proteins a chance to break down. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
3. Scrub Gently
Using a soft brush (like an old toothbrush), gently scrub the stained area. This helps lift the blood particles out of the fabric. Be patient—vigorous scrubbing could damage the fabric.
4. Rinse with Cold Water
Rinse the fabric under cold running water to wash out the soap and any loosened blood. Keep rinsing until the water runs clear.
5. Machine Wash as Usual
Once the stain is mostly gone, toss the garment in the washing machine on a cold water cycle with an enzyme-based laundry detergent pod. Check the stain before drying—if it’s still there, repeat the steps. Again, avoid the dryer until the stain is completely gone, otherwise that stain might become a permanent part of your wardrobe.
Common Questions About Removing Blood Stains from Clothes
Now that you’ve got the guide to get blood out of clothes, let’s dive into some common questions we get from folks at Laundry Sauce.
Does Blood Stain Clothes Permanently?
Blood stains don’t have to be permanent, but they can become much harder to remove if left untreated. The proteins in blood bind to fabric fibers over time, so the sooner you act, the better your chances of getting the stain out completely.
Is Hot or Cold Water Better for Blood Stains?
Always use cold water when you’re dealing with blood stains. Hot water causes the proteins in blood to coagulate and set into the fabric, making the stain tougher to remove.
Does Vinegar Remove Blood Stains?
Vinegar can help with blood stains, especially fresh ones. Its acidity can break down the proteins in blood, but it works best when combined with cold water and used as soon as possible after the stain occurs.
Can Hydrogen Peroxide Remove Blood Stains?
Yes, hydrogen peroxide is a common and effective blood stain remover. It helps break down the proteins in blood but can bleach certain fabrics, so make sure it’s safe to use on your clothes before applying.
Does Toothpaste Remove Blood Stains?
Toothpaste isn’t the most reliable option for removing blood stains. While some people swear by it in a pinch, it’s better to stick with proven methods like dish soap or hydrogen peroxide for better results.
Can Baking Soda Remove Blood Stains?
Baking soda can help remove blood stains, especially when combined with cold water. Make a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to the stain, let it sit, and then rinse—though it might not be as effective on older, set-in stains.
Say Goodbye to Blood Stains With Laundry Sauce
Battling blood stains is a whole lot easier (and smells a lot better) when you’ve got Laundry Sauce in your arsenal. Our extra-large laundry pods are enriched with a proprietary blend of bio-enzymes and polymers to break down blood stains and rejuvenate your fabrics.
Oh, and did we mention our pods infuse your outfits with luxurious fragrances like Australian Sandalwood, Egyptian Rose, Italian Bergamot, and more? Don’t just settle for stain-free clothes. You deserve to smell as incredible as you look.
