How to remove blood stains from carpet

Although most carpets are already given anti-stain treatment, some bodily fluids such as blood, make-up, foods, and beverages can leave behind stains that can be a challenge to remove. In most instances, you can readily get rid of bloodstains out of your carpet if you will use the appropriate materials and techniques. Read further to learn ways on how to remove blood stains from carpet. 

Steps on how to remove blood stains from carpet

A bloodstain on a light-colored carpet can be unappealing to look at. The key to removing blood stains is to deal with it right away. Remember to work from the borders of the stain and move to the center and rinse off followed by blotting any leftover cleaning solution to prevent the carpet from getting soiled again.

Let’s take a look at the steps on how to remove blood stains from carpet effectively. 

1. Wipe away any excess blood on the carpet. Use a dry, white towel or cloth or paper towels. Avoid rubbing since it might spread the stain. Simply blot off the site.
2. Dissolve the stain in lukewarm water. Dab on the site carefully with a moist cloth and soak up as much liquid by blotting with a dry, white cloth.
3. Sprinkle potato starch on the stain. Drizzle potato starch on the stain and let it dry for 24 hours before vacuuming it off the carpet. In most cases, the first three steps can remove the stain, but if a trace lingers or you are not satisfied with the result, proceed to step 4. 
4. Apply a stain remover on the stain. If a trace of the bloodstain lingers, use a universal stain remover. Although it can be harsh, you must be careful when using it. Read the instructions on the packaging for the best results.

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Alternative methods to get rid of bloodstains on the carpet

You might want to try out other alternative methods to remove blood stains on the carpet. Take note that these methods can be harsh so it is best to test first on a concealed area for a reaction. 

• Water and ammonia. A mixture of ammonia and water can effectively get rid of bloodstains on the carpet. Just remember that it should not be used on woolen carpets. Mix 1-2 teaspoons of ammonia with water and dab the solution to the stained area. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes and blot the area with a clean towel or cloth.
• Hydrogen peroxide. This might be a good option for a stubborn bloodstain. Add a small amount of hydrogen peroxide directly on the stain and let it work for 1-2 hours. Blot the site and repeat the process if needed. 

What removes blood stains?

There are several household products that you can use to remove blood stains 

• Hydrogen peroxide. This product is classified as an oxidizing agent that breaks down in water and oxygen. The 3% solution that you can find in drugstores is ideal in removing bloodstains. It is also suitable to be used on various types of fabrics, whether colored or not. 
• Vinegar. White vinegar is a household product that you can use to remove blood stains. Before the blood dries up, pour vinegar on the site, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes while blotting with a moist cloth. Repeat this process as many times as needed until the stain is gone. Wash the fabric as usual in cold water. 
• Salt. You can use salt on a fresh stain. Prepare a paste with salt and water and rub directly on the stained area. 
• Cola. This is a good stain remover due to the concentration of phosphoric and carbonic acid. Before the stain dries up, soak it in cola. Once the stain is lifted, wash the garment as usual.
• Cornstarch. Prepare a paste with cornstarch and water. Carefully dab it on the stained area. Allow it to dry under the sun and scrape or brush off the residue. The process can be repeated as many times as needed.
• Meat tenderizer. Combine meat tenderizer with cold water to create a paste. Apply on the stain and let it sit for 15-30 minutes before washing the garment. 
• Baking soda. Mix 4 tablespoons of baking soda with ¼ cup of water to create a paste. Let it sit and dry on the site for at least 30 minutes.
• Chlorine bleach. This product is effective in getting rid of bloodstains but should be used with care since it can discolor and weaken the fabric. Carefully follow the instructions on the label to get the best results.

How do you remove old blood stains from carpet?

When dealing with a bloodstain on your carpet, it must be done right away. If it is left to dry, it will become almost impossible to remove. 

• If the bloodstain has dried up, use a steel brush to brush the site. This will loosen the stain and remove superficial deposits.
• Mix a teaspoon of dishwashing soap with 2 cups of freshwater. 
• Soak a clean cloth or towel into the solution and repeatedly blot on the stain.
• Repeat steps 3 and 4 until the stain starts to fade completely.

How do you remove dried blood stains?

Getting rid of dried blood stains can be a challenge, but it is possible. Although an old, deeply-embedded stain might be difficult to remove, even dried blood stains can be lightened effectively with perseverance and proper treatment. 

• Carefully brush or scrape off any clotted blood on the fabric. On upholstery or carpeting, vacuum the site repeatedly to remove loose dried blood.
• Rinse the site with running cold water via the back part of the stain to further loosen and dissolve the blood. Do not rinse on top of the stain since this will drive the blood deeper into the fibers. On fabric surfaces that cannot be washed, tap the site with cold water. 
• Immerse the garment in cold water for 10-60 minutes. Only soak the stained area. 
• Rinse the site with hydrogen peroxide or blot with a towel or cloth soaked with the solution to dissolve and remove the lingering stain. For a minor stain, this can effectively remove it. 
• If the bloodstain lingers, treat the site with liquid laundry soap. Work it in gently into the fibers using a soft toothbrush. Avoid vigorous motions that can tear or damage the delicate fibers. 
• Rinse the site and inspect for any leftover stains. If needed, repeat the spot treatment until the stain is completely removed. 
• Wash or clean the fabric based on the fabric care label.

This technique is effective for most dried blood stains but you need to repeat the treatment for deeper stains.

Final thoughts

Bloodstains on the carpet can be undesirable to look at, especially the light-colored ones. Do not lose hope since you can remove the stains. With the methods described on how to remove blood stains from carpet, you can readily deal with the stain and restore the clean and pristine appearance of your carpet in no time.