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No matter what precautions are taken to avoid them, these accidents do happen. Don’t worry, we’ll answer your question about removing blood stains from your mattress. Mattresses require a bit more effort compared to other items of clothing that can be easily washed. Blood stains commonly occur from monthlies, pregnancy spottings, and injuries.
Knowing what to do and what cleaning materials are needed will help you get favorable results. In this article, you’ll be amazed to know what some ingredients in your household, mixed with patience, can do for you. Let’s start!
Removing Blood Stains From Your Mattress
Here are listed the different methods you can apply to solve blood stains issues on your mattress.
Blood Stains That Are Still Fresh and Moist
Blot the stained area using paper towels with just enough pressure that the towels absorb the moisture but don’t press the blood further into the mattress. After getting most of the moisture soaked off, sprinkle enough baking soda to cover the stain. Using a spray bottle, liberally apply a solution of water and white vinegar using a 1:1 ratio to the baking soda. Let it bubble and sit for about 30 minutes; this allows the mixture to loosen up the remaining blood particles from the mattress fibers.
Use linen spray to eliminate the strong odor of vinegar and infuse a pleasant smell into your mattress. After it has dried, blot the area using a moistened microfiber cloth to pick up the stains. You can then repeat the procedure if necessary until you get the desired results.
Stubborn and Dried Blood Stains
Sometimes, blood stains go unnoticed for a while; they would then dry up and set in with the fibers of your mattress. Here’s how to get rid of those nasty blood stains through different methods:
Method 1: Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda
- Mix ½ cup baking soda with ½ cup hydrogen peroxide using a bowl. Stir until it forms a pasty mixture. Using a soft brush, work your way to the center, applying the paste starting from the edges of the stain.
- Leave the mixture and let it bubble on the stain for at least half an hour. After the time has passed, use a damp microfiber cloth to blot away the paste together with the blood.
- A word of caution, though! Hydrogen peroxide has bleaching properties that can discolor certain types of dark-colored fabrics.
Method 2: Meat Tenderizer Powder
Another method would be using meat tenderizer powder. It has an active component called papain, an enzyme from the papaya plant, that works on proteins in the blood, making it an effective ingredient to remove tough blood stains from your mattress.
- Mix one tablespoon of meat tenderizer powder with two teaspoons of water to make a paste.
- Apply the paste over the dried-up stain and let it sit until it is completely dry.
- Using a wet microfiber cloth, blot the paste to remove it. Use a paper towel to pat the area dry.
Method 3: Enzyme-Based Stain Remover
Enzyme-based stain removers are laundry detergents that use enzymes to break down protein molecules in blood stains effectively. There are, however, different types of enzymes for specific stains. A detergent with an enzyme called protease is ideal for removing blood stains.
- Get an enzyme-based stain remover that comes in a bottle spray.
- Generously spray over the stained area. Using a soft brush, work the stain remover into the fabric and leave it to sit for around eight hours.
- Then blot the stained area with a damp microfiber cloth, press gently into the stain, then rinse the cloth and wring it. Repeat as necessary until the stain is removed.
Tips to Remember
Always keep these tips in mind when removing blood stains from your mattress.
The Earlier, the Better
Blood has this property to bind and form a clot as it dries up. Cleaning the stain after being aware of it saves you time and effort.
Never Use Hot water
Organic liquids such as blood have proteins in their composition. Proteins react to hot water by binding together. Use only cold water to avoid blood from meshing with the fibers of the mattress.
Blot Don’t Rub
Removing blood stains by rubbing will only spread the stain on your mattress. Instead, try blotting. While the blood stain is still moist, blot the stained area with paper towels to absorb excess liquid and moisture.
Preparation is Key
Before removing blood stains, ensure you have the essential materials and ingredients.
- Paper towels
- Microfiber cloth
- Cold water
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Soft-bristled brush
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Meat tenderizer
- Enzyme-based stain remover
Conclusion
Removing blood stains from upholsteries or furniture is one of the most challenging aspects we face when cleaning. Ineffective techniques will only bring about feelings of frustration and hopelessness.
Learning about these acceptable methods of removing blood stains will give us the necessary understanding to achieve the desired results.
