Blood stains on white sheets can be frustrating, but they don’t have to be permanent. The key to effective removal is treating the stain as soon as possible before it sets into the fabric. Using the right cleaning methods and household ingredients such as hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and salt can help lift the stain without damaging the fabric. Here is how to remove blood stains from white sheets.
Act Quickly for the Best Results
Fresh blood stains are much easier to remove than dried ones. As soon as you notice a stain, blot it with cold water—never use warm or hot water, as heat can cause the stain to set deeper into the fabric.
Effective Methods to Remove Blood Stains
- Cold Water Rinse for Fresh Stains
- Hold the stained area under cold running water to flush out as much blood as possible
- Gently rub the fabric together to loosen the stain
- If the stain is still visible, move on to a stronger cleaning method
- Hydrogen Peroxide for White Sheets
Hydrogen peroxide is a powerful stain remover that works especially well on white fabrics.
- Pour 3% hydrogen peroxide directly onto the stain
- Let it bubble and sit for 5–10 minutes
- Blot with a clean cloth and rinse with cold water
- Repeat if needed before washing as usual
- Baking Soda Paste for Tough Stains
Baking soda helps lift stains and brighten white fabric.
- Mix one part baking soda with two parts cold water to form a paste
- Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for 30 minutes
- Gently scrub with a soft brush or cloth, then rinse with cold water
- Salt and Cold Water for Gentle Cleaning
Salt acts as a natural stain remover, absorbing moisture and lifting blood from fabric.
- Dissolve two tablespoons of salt in cold water
- Soak the stained area for 30–60 minutes
- Gently scrub the stain and rinse thoroughly
- White Vinegar for Stubborn Stains
White vinegar can break down blood stains and brighten white sheets.
- Pour undiluted white vinegar onto the stain
- Let it sit for 10 minutes, then blot with a clean cloth
- Rinse with cold water and wash as usual
- Enzyme-Based Stain Remover for Dried Blood
If the stain has already dried, an enzyme-based stain remover or laundry detergent designed for protein stains can be effective.
- Apply the enzyme cleaner directly to the stain
- Let it sit for at least 15 minutes before rinsing
- Wash in cold water and check before drying, as heat can set stains permanently
Washing and Drying Tips
- Wash in Cold Water: Always use cold water when washing stained sheets to prevent the blood from setting
- Air Dry if Possible: Avoid using a dryer until the stain is completely gone, as heat can make it permanent
- Repeat if Necessary: If the stain remains after washing, repeat the treatment instead of drying the sheets
Preventing Future Stains
- Use stain-resistant sheets or a mattress protector to minimize staining
- Treat stains immediately before they have a chance to dry
- Keep hydrogen peroxide or a stain remover on hand for quick spot treatments
Also Read: How To Remove A Broken Bolt