How to Clean Up Blood Stains: The Ultimate Guide

Bloodstains can be a real pain to clean up. Not only is the sight of blood unpleasant, it can also be difficult to remove completely without the right know-how. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of cleaning up blood stains step by step.

We’ll provide tips on how to get rid of as much blood as possible, as well as on how to prevent any further damage from being done. So whether you’re dealing with a small spill or a large mess, we’ve got you covered.

Things You Need to Know Before Cleaning Up Blood

Cleaning up blood is not as difficult as it may seem, but there are a few things you should know before getting started.

Act quickly - The sooner you act, the easier it will be to clean up the blood. If you wait too long, the blood will have a chance to dry, and become much harder to remove.
Wear protective gear - It's important to protect yourself from any potential infection when dealing with blood. Be sure to wear gloves, a mask, and any other protective gear that may be necessary.
Choose the right cleaning products - You'll need to use a cleaning product that is strong enough to remove the bloodstain but gentle enough not to damage the surface you're cleaning. We recommend using a bleach-based cleaner, or an enzymatic cleaner for best results.

How to Clean Up Blood Stains

Now that you know a few things to keep in mind before getting started, let’s go over the steps for cleaning up bloodstains.

Before we start the cleanup process, there are a few things you will need:

Once you’ve gathered all the necessary supplies, follow these steps to remove the bloodstains:

Step 1 - Put on personal protective equipment

The first step is to put on any personal protective equipment that you may need. This includes gloves, a mask, and any other gear that will keep you safe from infection. It’s important to take these precautions before coming into contact with any blood. It can be very harmful and is classified as biohazard cleanup.

Step 2 - Remove any excess blood

Once you have your PPE on, it’s time to start removing the blood. If the blood is fresh, start by blotting it with a paper towel or damp cloth. Be sure to apply pressure so that as much blood as possible is absorbed. If the blood is dry, you can try scraping it up with a dull knife.

Step 3 - Choose your cleaning product

Next, you will need to choose a cleaning product. For best results, we recommend using a bleach-based cleaner or an enzymatic cleaner. If you are using bleach, be sure to mix it with water in a ratio of one part bleach to ten parts water.

Step 4 - Apply the cleaner

Once you have chosen a cleaner, it’s time to apply it to the stain. If you are using bleach, be sure to do so in a well-ventilated area. Apply the cleaner to the stain, and let it sit for several minutes. Use a paper towel or rag to blot the area and remove any remaining blood.

Step 5 - Scrub the stain

After the cleaner has had a chance to work, the next step is to scrub the stain. Use a brush or rag to scrub the blood until it starts to lift.

Step 6 - Rinse the surface with cold water

If you are using an enzymatic cleaner, there is no need to rinse the area with water afterward. If you decide to use bleach, however, it’s important to rinse the surface with cold water in order to remove any residue.

Step 7 - Disinfect the area

Once you have removed the bloodstain, it’s important to disinfect the area. This will help kill any bacteria that may be present. To do this, simply apply a household disinfectant to the area, and let it dry.

Step 8 - Repeat as needed

Once you have finished scrubbing and rinsing the area, take a look at the stain. If it’s still visible, you may need to repeat the process. Be sure to let the area dry completely before checking for any remaining stains.

Step 9 - Let the area dry completely

Once you have checked for any remaining stains and are satisfied with the results, let the area dry completely. This will help prevent any future stains from setting in.

Step 10 - Remove personal protective equipment

Once the area is dry, you can remove your personal protective equipment. Be sure to dispose of any gloves or masks that you used during the process.

Step 11 - Inspect your body for any blood

After you have removed your gloves and masks, you then have to inspect your body for any blood. You’ll want to wash any areas that may have come into contact with blood thoroughly.

Step 12 - Clean all of your equipment

Finally, be sure to clean all of the equipment that you used during the process. This includes any brushes, rags, or buckets that you may have used. Be sure to disinfect all of your equipment before storing it away.

Step 13 - Wash your hands

Once you’ve finished with the entire process, make sure you remember to wash your hands thoroughly. This will help remove any bacteria that may be present.

Why is it So Difficult to Remove Blood Stains?

One of the most difficult things about removing blood stains is that they can quickly set in. This is especially true if the blood is allowed to dry. Once the blood has dried, it can be very difficult to remove without causing damage to the surface.

Additionally, blood is a protein-based substance, which means that it can be difficult to remove with regular cleaners. This is why it’s so important to use a cleaner that is specifically designed for removing bloodstains.

How to Prevent Blood Stains

The best way to prevent blood stains is to clean them up as soon as possible. This will help prevent the blood from setting into the fabric or surface. Additionally, be sure to use a cleaner that is designed for removing bloodstains. This will help ensure that the stain is removed completely.

You may need to hire a professional if you need to clean up blood from a crime scene.

Finally, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after coming into contact with blood. The last thing you’d want is to spread bacteria and risk any kind of infection.

7 Common Items That Remove Blood Stains

There are a number of items that can be used to remove blood stains. These include:

Hydrogen peroxide - Hydrogen peroxide is a common household cleaner that can be used to remove blood stains. Simply apply the hydrogen peroxide to the stain, and let it sit for several minutes before scrubbing.
Vinegar - Vinegar is a great all-purpose cleaner, and can also be used to remove fresh blood stains. Simply soak the affected area in vinegar for a few minutes before rinsing away.
Baking soda - Baking soda is a natural cleaning agent that can also be used to clean up bloodstains. Simply add enough baking soda to the stained area to cover it, and then gently rub it in. Leave the baking soda on for a few minutes before blotting it up with a clean cloth.
Dish soap - You can usually find dish soap near the sink in most homes. This will do a great job of removing fresh blood stains from clothing. Just be sure to read the label, and follow the instructions carefully.
Enzymatic cleaner - This is a cleaner that contains enzymes that break down blood. You can find this type of cleaner at your local grocery store.
Bleach - You can use bleach to clean up blood stains on clothing and other materials. However, you should be aware that bleach can also damage fabric, so be sure to test it on a small area first.
Rubbing alcohol - If you have isopropyl alcohol, or rubbing alcohol, as it's sometimes called, on hand, you're in luck. Bloodstains are no match for this household staple.

Which of these items you use will depend on the type of surface you’re cleaning, and what you have on hand. Be sure to test any cleaner in an inconspicuous area before using it on the stain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is blood stain removal permanent?

Bloodstain removal is not always permanent. However, if you use the right cleaner and method, you can usually remove the stain completely.

Can I use cold water to remove dried blood stains?

Yes, cold water can be used to remove dried bloodstains. However, you may need to soak the stain in cold water for several hours or overnight before it will come out.

How tough are blood-stains to remove?

The difficulty of removing blood stains varies depending on the type of surface and the age of the stain. Fresh blood stains are usually easier to remove than dried ones. However, if you use the right cleaner and method, you can usually remove most bloodstains.

Is liquid laundry detergent good for removing blood stains?

Yes, liquid laundry detergent can be used to remove fresh blood stains. Simply apply the detergent to the stain and scrub it in gently. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing away.

Do stains from clothes come out in the wash?

Yes, most bloodstains will come out in the wash. However, you may need to pretreat the stain before washing it. Be sure to read the care label on your clothing before pretreating or washing.

Bloodstains can be difficult to remove, but with the right cleaner and some elbow grease, you can do so quickly and easily. Be sure to follow the steps outlined in this guide to ensure that the stain is removed completely.

Additionally, always remember to wash your hands thoroughly after coming into contact with blood. This will help prevent the spread of bacteria.