How To Remove Blood

Friday January 16, 2009 - Removing any stain can be difficult. Blood presents a unique challenge that can prove even more difficult than wine to remove from clothing or any other porous surface because blood is made up of protein. Many different commercial stain removers exist that claim to be the best solution; however, some simple and old-fashioned remedies often work better than expensive options.

Believe it or not, one of the best solutions for removing a small spot of blood from clothing is cold water. This method works when a child has fallen and the blood from the injury has made a small stain on the child’s clothing. Simply use a clean rag that you have dipped in cold water and dab the area where the blood has stained the clothing. If rubbing the stain with a cold wet cloth does not remove the blood sufficiently, it may be necessary to add a drop of dishwashing detergent and continue dabbing until the stain is gone. In most cases, this method will remove the stain. This method is most effective when the blood stain has not dried. Remember to only use cold water because warm or hot water will actually work to set the stain in place.

Unfortunately, bloodstains are sometimes larger than a spot. If the stain is on clothing, it may be necessary to remove the clothing and place it in a tub or sink filled with cold water. Bring the clothing together around the spot and rub back and forth with the stain partially submerged until it begins to fade. If the stain has had any time to dry, it may be more difficult to remove. Try using any kind of soap on the spot and then rub together.

You can test other substances if cold water and soap are unsuccessful in cleaning the garment. Surprisingly, meat tenderizer can work well as a cleaning agent. It has enzymes that break down the protein in the blood making it easier to clean. Sprinkle a small amount over the stain. Make sure to wet the area with cold water if it has dried. Rinse with cold water after letting the tenderizer work for 30 minutes. The bubbles in club soda club soda work to break up stains as well. Pour a small amount over the affected area and let it sit for 30 minutes. Then rinse until the stain is gone.

After using any of these methods, run the clothing through a cycle in the washing machine to remove any final traces of the stains. Only use the dryer after you have verified that the stain is completely gone. Drying clothing while there is still any visible trace will set the stain permanently.

All of the above substances can be used for larger stains as well. Sometimes, the stain may not come clean even with a lot of effort. Resolve carpet cleaner works on tough stains well. It can be used on carpets, upholstery, clothing, as well as any non-porous surface.

*Biotrauma does not recommend these measures as sufficient for trauma scene cleanup. Only certified professionals should attemt biohazard cleanup procedures, as the contraction of bloodborne parthogens related illnesses is a risk associated with the cleaning.

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