Accidents happen, and sometimes, that means a little blood ends up on the mattress. Whether it’s from a minor cut or a heavier period leak, getting blood stains out of a mattress can seem tricky, but I’ve learned a few effective methods that do the job without damaging the fabric. Here’s my step-by-step guide on how to safely and thoroughly remove blood stains from your mattress.
Why Blood Stains Are Hard to Remove
Blood contains proteins, and when those proteins dry, they bond with the fabric. If you don’t act quickly, those bonds can become stubborn, making the stain harder to remove. But don’t worry—I’ve tried several methods and found that acting quickly and using the right products makes a big difference.
What You’ll Need
Before getting started, gather these items:
- Cold water (never hot—it can set the stain)
- Clean cloths or paper towels
- Baking soda
- Hydrogen peroxide (3%)
- Dish soap (mild)
- Enzyme cleaner (optional, but great for set stains)
- A vacuum (for after cleaning)
Step 1: Blot, Don’t Rub
When you first notice the blood stain, don’t rub it. Rubbing can push the stain deeper into the mattress fibers. Instead, gently blot the blood with a clean cloth or paper towel, absorbing as much as you can. Keep the area moist but not soaked, and continue blotting until no more blood is transferring to the towel.
Step 2: Use Cold Water
As soon as you’ve blotted away excess blood, pour cold water onto the stain. Cold water is key here because hot water can set the stain by cooking the proteins. Let the cold water sit on the stain for a few minutes, then blot it again to lift more of the blood.
Step 3: Apply Hydrogen Peroxide (For Fresh Stains)
If the stain is fresh (and hasn’t set in too much), hydrogen peroxide (3%) is your next step. I’ve found it to be the most effective solution for blood stains on mattresses.
- Pour a small amount of hydrogen peroxide onto the blood stain. It will begin to fizz and bubble, which is a good sign—it means it’s lifting the blood.
- Let it sit for 5–10 minutes. You’ll see the stain begin to break up.
- Blot with a clean cloth to soak up the blood and hydrogen peroxide mixture. Repeat if needed until the stain is gone.
Step 4: Baking Soda Paste (For Stubborn Stains)
If the hydrogen peroxide alone didn’t fully remove the stain, or if the stain is a little older, you can make a baking soda paste to target any remaining blood.
- Mix 3 tablespoons of baking soda with 1–2 tablespoons of cold water to form a thick paste.
- Apply the paste to the blood stain and let it sit for 15–20 minutes. You’ll notice the paste may absorb even more of the stain.
- After waiting, use a clean cloth or sponge to scrub gently and remove the paste.
Step 5: Dish Soap Solution (For Set Stains)
For older, set-in stains, a dish soap solution can help break down the proteins in the blood. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix 1 teaspoon of mild dish soap with 2 cups of cold water.
- Dampen a cloth with the soapy water (don’t soak it) and blot the stain gently.
- Keep blotting and adding soap water until the stain begins to lift.
- Rinse the area with a cloth dampened with cold water (no soap) to remove any residue.
Step 6: Enzyme Cleaner (For Really Tough Stains)
If you’re dealing with a set-in or stubborn blood stain, you may want to try an enzyme cleaner. These are specifically designed to break down proteins, which is perfect for blood. Simply follow the instructions on the label, and usually, you’ll need to let the enzyme cleaner sit for about 15–20 minutes before blotting it away.
Step 7: Dry the Mattress Thoroughly
After you’ve removed the stain, dry the mattress thoroughly. Don’t put the bedding back on until the mattress is completely dry. I always use a fan to help speed up the drying process, or if it’s sunny, I’ll leave the mattress propped up near a window to air dry. A wet mattress can lead to mold or mildew growth, so take your time with this step.
Step 8: Vacuum the Mattress (Optional)
Once the mattress is dry, vacuum the area where you cleaned to pick up any leftover baking soda or detergent. It also helps to freshen the mattress and remove dust or debris that may have built up while cleaning.
Additional Tips for Mattress Stains
- Act fast: The quicker you clean a blood stain, the better your chances of getting it out.
- Use a mattress protector: After cleaning, consider using a waterproof mattress protector to prevent future stains from soaking into the fabric.
- Test solutions in a small area: Always test cleaning products, especially hydrogen peroxide, on an inconspicuous part of the mattress first to ensure they won’t damage the fabric or cause discoloration.
- Avoid heat: Never use hot water or a blow dryer on the stain, as heat can set the stain and make it permanent.
Final Thoughts
While blood stains on a mattress might seem daunting, don’t panic—with the right approach and a bit of patience, you can remove them without leaving a trace. Whether it’s a small cut or an unexpected leak, I’ve found that hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and dish soap are my most trusted methods for getting blood out of a mattress.
Just remember, the key is to act quickly, avoid heat, and be gentle with the fabric. With the right care, your mattress will be clean and fresh again in no time!
