How to get Blood Stains Out of A Mattress: 5 Easy Tricks

The Importance of Quick Action to Remove Blood Stains from Your Mattress

How to get Blood Stains Out of A Mattress can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. For urgent situations, here’s a quick guide to tackle the problem:

1. Act fast: Remove the stain within 2-3 hours.
2. Assess the stain: Know if it’s fresh or dried.
3. Gather supplies: Use cold water for fresh stains, warm for dried ones.
4. Blot, don’t rub: Always blot to absorb, never rub as it spreads the stain.

Quick handling is key because a delayed response means the stain could set in deeply, making it tough to remove.

Letting blood stains sit is not just about appearance. It’s a biohazard, potentially spreading diseases, and can lower the lifespan of your mattress.

Common Household Items You Can Use:

• Cold water: Essential for dissolving fresh blood.
• Hydrogen Peroxide: Good for fizzing out dried blood.
• Baking Soda: Great for making a cleaning paste.
• Vinegar: Helps dissolve the stain.

I’m Ben Trapskin, creator of Yawnder. I’ve digd deep into sleep science after struggling with poor sleep myself. Learning how to get Blood Stains Out of A Mattress was part of my journey to better sleep hygiene, which I’m excited to share with you in this complete guide.

How to Get Blood Stains Out of a Mattress

Removing blood stains from a mattress might sound daunting, but it’s doable with the right steps and tools. Whether you’re dealing with fresh or dried stains, here’s how to tackle them effectively.

Fresh Blood Stains

Fresh blood stains are easier to handle because they haven’t set into the mattress fibers yet. Here’s how to tackle them:

1. Blot the Stain with Cold Water

   • Cold water is your best friend for fresh stains. Using warm water can cause the blood proteins to set, making the stain harder to remove.
   • Grab a microfiber cloth or paper towels and dip it in cold water. Blot the stain gently. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the stain.

2. Use Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide

   • If cold water alone doesn’t do the trick, mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with 1/2 cup of hydrogen peroxide to form a cleaning paste.
   • Apply the paste with a soft-bristled brush, starting from the outer edge of the stain and working inward.
   • Let it sit for at least 30 minutes. The mixture will bubble as it reacts with the blood.
   • Blot the area with a damp cloth to remove the paste and the blood.

3. Air Dry the Mattress

   • Allow the mattress to air dry completely before putting any bedding back on. Use a fan or open a window to speed up the process.

Dried Blood Stains

Dried blood stains are more stubborn, but they can still be removed with patience and the right approach.

1. Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda Paste

   • For dried stains, start by applying a paste of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda.
   • Let it sit until the bubbling stops (about 30 minutes).
   • Blot the area with a damp cloth to remove the paste and stain.

2. Enzymatic Cleaners

   • Enzyme-based cleaners break down the proteins in blood, making it easier to lift the stain.
   • Apply a small amount of enzyme-based cleaner to a damp microfiber cloth and blot the stain.
   • Rinse the area with cold water and blot dry.

3. Meat Tenderizer Paste

   • Surprisingly, meat tenderizer can also help break down blood proteins.
   • Mix meat tenderizer with a bit of cold water to form a paste.
   • Apply it to the stain and let it sit for 30 minutes.
   • Blot with a damp cloth to remove the paste.

4. Oxygen-Based Bleach

   • For tough stains, try oxygen-based bleach. It’s less harsh than chlorine bleach and works well on dried blood.
   • Follow the instructions on the product for best results.

5. Vinegar Solution

   • Mix one part vinegar with two parts cold water.
   • Dab the stain with the solution using a cloth or paper towel. Avoid rubbing.
   • Rinse with cold water and blot dry.

By following these steps, you can effectively remove both fresh and dried blood stains from your mattress, ensuring a clean and comfortable sleeping environment.

Next, we’ll dive into the detailed step-by-step methods for each of these cleaning techniques.

Step-by-Step Methods

Method 1: Cold Water and Blotting

Tools Needed:

• Cold water
• Microfiber cloth or paper towels

Instructions:

1. Blot the Stain: Use a clean microfiber cloth or paper towel to blot the stain from the outside edges towards the center. This prevents spreading.
2. Dab with Cold Water: Soak a clean cloth in cold water and dab the stain gently. Avoid rubbing.
3. Repeat: Continue blotting and dabbing until the stain is removed.
4. Dry: Allow the mattress to air dry completely before replacing any bedding.

Safety Precautions: Use only cold water. Warm or hot water can set the stain permanently.

Method 2: Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide

Tools Needed:

• Baking soda
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Small bowl
• Soft-bristled brush

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Paste: Mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with 1/2 cup of hydrogen peroxide in a small bowl to form a paste.
2. Apply the Paste: Use a soft-bristled brush to apply the paste to the stain, starting from the edges and working towards the center.
3. Let it Sit: Allow the paste to sit for at least 30 minutes.
4. Blot and Rinse: Use a damp cloth to blot away the paste and stain.
5. Dry: Let the mattress air dry completely.

Safety Precautions: Ensure proper ventilation when using hydrogen peroxide. Avoid oversaturating the mattress to prevent mildew.

Method 3: Vinegar and Baking Soda

Tools Needed:

• Vinegar
• Baking soda
• Spray bottle
• Soft brush

Instructions:

1. Mix Solution: In a spray bottle, mix one part vinegar with two parts cold water.
2. Spray the Stain: Lightly spray the solution onto the stain. Do not oversaturate.
3. Apply Baking Soda: Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the sprayed area.
4. Let it Sit: Allow the mixture to sit for at least 30 minutes.
5. Blot and Rinse: Use a damp cloth to blot the area, then rinse with cold water.
6. Dry: Let the mattress air dry completely.

Safety Precautions: Test the vinegar solution on a small, hidden area of the mattress first to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration.

Method 4: Enzyme-Based Stain Remover

Tools Needed:

• Enzyme-based cleaner
• Microfiber cloth
• Cold water

Instructions:

1. Apply Cleaner: Spray the enzyme-based cleaner directly onto the stain.
2. Blot the Stain: Use a clean microfiber cloth to blot the stain, working from the edges towards the center.
3. Rinse with Cold Water: Dab the area with a cloth soaked in cold water.
4. Repeat if Necessary: Repeat the process until the stain is removed.
5. Dry: Allow the mattress to air dry completely.

Safety Precautions: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the enzyme cleaner. Avoid using too much water.

Method 5: Meat Tenderizer Paste

Tools Needed:

• Unseasoned meat tenderizer
• Cold water
• Soft brush

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Paste: Mix unseasoned meat tenderizer with cold water to form a paste.
2. Apply the Paste: Apply the paste to the stain using a soft brush.
3. Let it Sit: Allow the paste to sit on the stain for 30 minutes.
4. Blot and Rinse: Use a damp cloth to blot away the paste and stain.
5. Dry: Let the mattress air dry completely.

Safety Precautions: Ensure the meat tenderizer is unseasoned to avoid introducing additional stains or odors.

By following these step-by-step methods, you can effectively remove blood stains from your mattress using simple household items. Next, we’ll discuss some tips for preventing blood stains in the first place.

Tips for Preventing Blood Stains

Preventing blood stains on your mattress is much easier than removing them. Here are some simple tips that will help keep your mattress clean and stain-free.

Mattress Protectors

Investing in a high-quality mattress protector is one of the best ways to safeguard your mattress. A mattress protector provides an extra layer of protection against spills, stains, and accidents.

Marc Werner, Founder of GhostBed, emphasizes the importance of a mattress protector:

“A mattress protector not only prevents staining and spills but also prolongs the life of your mattress by protecting it from sweat, oils, dead skin, and mites.”

The GhostProtector mattress cover has a soft knit top for breathability and a waterproof layer that lasts.

Absorbent Pads

For added protection, especially during periods or when dealing with a child’s bed, you can use absorbent pads. These disposable pads are easy to replace and can catch any spills or leaks before they reach your mattress.

Regular Checks

Regularly checking your mattress for stains or spills can help you address issues before they become bigger problems. A quick once-over every time you change your sheets can make a huge difference.

Proper Hygiene

Maintaining proper hygiene is crucial. This includes:

• Showering before bed: This reduces the amount of sweat and oils that can seep into your mattress.
• Changing bed linens regularly: Fresh sheets can help keep your mattress cleaner.
• Using menstrual products: For those who menstruate, using products like tampons, overnight pads, or menstrual underwear can help prevent leaks.

By following these tips, you can keep your mattress in excellent condition and avoid the hassle of removing blood stains.

Frequently Asked Questions about Blood Stains on Mattresses

Do blood stains come out of a mattress?

Yes, blood stains can come out of a mattress, but it requires some effort and the right techniques. The key is to act quickly and use the correct cleaning methods. Here’s what you need to know:

• Cold Water: Always use cold water when dealing with blood stains. Warm or hot water can set the stain, making it much harder to remove. Cold water helps to dissolve the blood.

• Blotting: Instead of rubbing the stain, blot it with a clean cloth or paper towel. Rubbing can spread the stain and push it deeper into the mattress fibers.

• Enzymatic Cleaners: These cleaners break down the proteins in blood, making it easier to remove. They’re particularly effective for stubborn stains.

How do you get dried blood stains out of a bed?

Dried blood stains are more challenging to remove, but not impossible. Here are some methods:

• Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide: Mix baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to create a paste. Apply it to the stain and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the area, then blot with a damp cloth.

• Vinegar and Baking Soda: Combine vinegar and baking soda to form a cleaning solution. Spray this onto the stain and let it sit for a few minutes. Use a soft brush to work the solution into the stain, then blot with a clean cloth.

Does vinegar and baking soda remove old blood stains from a mattress?

Yes, vinegar and baking soda can be effective for removing old blood stains from a mattress. Here’s how:

• Vinegar: Mix one part vinegar with two parts cold water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the stain and let it sit for a few minutes.

• Baking Soda: Sprinkle baking soda over the sprayed area. The combination of vinegar and baking soda will fizz and help lift the stain.

• Soft Brush: Use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the stained area. This helps to work the solution deeper into the fibers of the mattress.

• Blotting: After scrubbing, blot the area with a clean cloth to remove the solution and the stain.

By using these methods, you can effectively remove both fresh and dried blood stains from your mattress, ensuring it stays clean and hygienic.

Conclusion

Removing blood stains from a mattress can be a daunting task, but with the right methods, it’s entirely possible. Here’s a quick recap of the methods we’ve discussed:

1. Cold Water and Blotting: This is the go-to method for fresh stains. Always use cold water and blot gently with a microfiber cloth or paper towels.

2. Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide: Ideal for dried stains. Make a paste and apply it to the stain, then scrub gently with a soft-bristled brush.

3. Vinegar and Baking Soda: A versatile method that works well for both fresh and dried stains. The fizzing action helps lift the stain from the mattress fibers.

4. Enzyme-Based Stain Remover: Effective for breaking down blood proteins. Apply and blot with a microfiber cloth.

5. Meat Tenderizer Paste: An unconventional but effective method for stubborn stains. Make a paste with cold water and apply it to the stain.

Quick action is crucial when dealing with blood stains. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to remove the stain. Fresh stains are much easier to tackle, so try to address them within 2–3 hours. This not only helps in removing the stain but also prevents the spread of harmful bacteria.

At Yawnder, we understand the importance of a clean and hygienic mattress. Our expertise in mattress care is backed by years of research and real-world experience. We aim to provide you with the best tips and products to keep your mattress in top condition.

For more information on mattress care and reviews, check out our mattress reviews page.

A clean mattress is not just about aesthetics; it’s about ensuring a healthy sleeping environment. So take action quickly and use the methods we’ve outlined to keep your mattress blood-stain free. Sleep well!

This concludes our guide on how to get blood stains out of a mattress. We hope you found it helpful! If you have any more questions or need further assistance, reach out to us.