Whether we like it or not, blood stains are bound to happen. Be it from just a cut or some bigger mishap, these stains can be notoriously hard to remove. If they happen to fall on your favourite furniture or clothing, it can be overwhelming to handle.

There is no reason to panic, though. Bloodstains are not always permanent, and even the most notorious stains can be completely removed just by using the right methodology.

Let us take a look at these helpful tips and techniques for removing bloodstains from various fabrics and keeping your homes spotless.

Understanding Blood Stains

To remove these brown-red spots effectively, it is vital to know why they are too stubborn. Blood contains proteins that latch onto fabric fibres tightly. Think of it as glue, which clings to surfaces if not removed immediately.

Thus, swift action will yield successful results, so do not wait until that bloody spot is a couple of days old!

If they get the chance to settle, bloodstains will require more effort and special treatment for thorough removal.

Cold water is often suggested to combat these types of incidents. Avoid using hot water as it could make the stain even worse.

Moreover, avoid rubbing the stain because this will spread the stain or push it further into the fabric.

Removing Blood Stains from Carpet

Your carpet is usually the centrepiece of your beloved space, and it can get ruined quite fast once an unsightly red stain appears on it.

There are ways and means through which you can manage these nasty issues.

• Blot and Avoid Rubbing

The key to a successful removal of a fresh blood spill is to take immediate action. Blot the area with a clean cloth or paper towel and avoid rubbing. This will stop the blood from spreading further into the fibres.

Using low, steady pressure, absorb as much of the excess blood as possible. Remember to work from the outside edges towards the centre to prevent spreading the liquid.

• Cold Water Solution

Mix one or two drops of liquid dish soap in cold water, then dip a clean sponge or cloth into the solution. Next, blot the area lightly.

The soap degrades the proteins in the blood while the cold water prevents it from setting. Make sure not to soak the carpet as too much water can damage the fibres.

Use a dry towel afterwards to blot again and remove any remaining moisture.

• Hydrogen Peroxide for Stubborn Stains

For particularly stubborn stains, try using hydrogen peroxide. This wondrous concoction works magic on carpets with light fabrics since peroxide has a tendency to bleach darker fabrics.

Apply a small amount of hydrogen peroxide to the stained area and let it bubble. Then, take a clean cloth and blot the stain until it disappears.

If the spot still persists, professional cleaning services will ensure that no damage will occur during the cleaning process.

Tackling Blood Stains on Upholstery

Unfortunately, upholstery’s different materials and fabrics make blood stains a little more difficult to treat.

So, whether it is your preferred sofa or a classy chair, you will want to avoid damaging the fabric. Fortunately, most upholstery can be saved with relatively mild cleaning techniques.

• Cold Water First

Your best friend against these discolourations is cold water. Start with blotting the blood with a fresh, moist cloth. Steer clear of rubbing since this could distribute the stain or let it sink more into the cloth.

• Mild Detergent Solution

You can make a mild solution with cold water and a light liquid detergent. Apply the solution to the stain carefully with a sponge or soft cloth by blotting.

Recall to work carefully. You can do so by testing the solution on a small, discreet area first. By doing so, you can ensure it will not change the colour or texture of the cloth. Lastly, blot the area with fresh water to get any soapy residue off.

• Vinegar and Baking Soda Combination

This homemade mix will work wonders for extremely tenacious stains. First, treat the discolouration with the soda powder, then dab in a tiny bit of white vinegar. The resulting bubbling reaction will help lift the discolouration.

A few minutes later, wipe the area with a fresh, damp cloth then let it air dry. Should the stain linger, you can always consult expert upholstery cleaners to completely recover your furniture.

Getting Blood Out of Clothing

Bloodstains on your carpet or upholstery are not nice-looking on furniture, but it is a whole different story when this red liquid drips on your clothing. Sometimes it is your favourite shirt or pants.

Luckily, there are ways to save them.

• Act Fast with Cold Water

Run cold water over the fabric immediately and be sure to allow the water to flow right across the stained area. 

This can help remove as much blood before it gets the chance to dry. Hot water should not be applied since it can cause permanent spots on your precious fabrics.

• Salt Paste for Fresh Stains

A simple salt paste often works surprisingly well on new stains. In a small bowl, mix salt into cold water to form a thick paste.

Apply the paste directly to the stain and let it sit for around fifteen to twenty minutes. After that period, simply rinse it under cold water. Salt prevents blood from adhering deeply into the fabric and can thus help draw it out.

• Try Enzyme-Based Cleaners for Stubborn Stains

If the stain is old or not coming off easily, you can use an enzyme-based stain remover to decompose the blood proteins.

Follow the instructions on the cleaner then wash normally in cold water. For stubborn stains, you will need to repeat several times.

When to Call in the Pros

While many blood stains can be treated at home, sometimes you will need to enlist the help of a professional. Specialists use tools and techniques that can help you avoid dealing permanent damage to your carpet or upholstery.

Should you be dealing with a large or dried bloodstain that simply would not budge, then trusting the experts will be the best course of action.

Carpet cleaning services providers will be able to assess the situation and provide deep cleaning treatments so the integrity of the fabric is not affected.

Expert cleaners also use steam cleaning and extraction methods that are both safe for your materials and powerful against tough spots.

Additionally, they can remove blood while ensuring that your house is spotless and fresh, giving you the reassurance that the task has been completed effectively.

Keeping Your Fabrics Fresh and Clean

Now that you have cleared the bloodstains, it is a good idea to keep your fabrics in prime condition so no other liquids can set on them.

Regular cleaning is key to this If you set up a hoovering schedule and act immediately against spills, your fabrics will last much longer.

We highly recommend that you call in cleaners at least every six months or once a year. These experts will not only clean tough stains but also dirt, allergens, and odours, freshening up and sanitising your carpet.

Similarly, deep cleaning will help upholstery get rid of the trapped dirt and oils accumulated over time.

Conclusion

Though it can seem like a never-ending struggle, blood stains can be lifted completely with the correct techniques and a little bit of patience.

Recall that acting fast is crucial and knowing which methods to apply for every kind of fabric makes all the difference. Whether you are cleaning carpets or clothes, these techniques can help you protect your valuable goods from permanent stains.

Additionally, keep in mind that just a tiny bit of blood does not signify the end of the world. With this knowledge, you will be able to deal with such spills like a pro!