How to Remove Blood Stains from Carpet

The task of managing to remove blood stains may seem daunting, especially if such tough stains are on a carpet. However, if you follow the right methods and use suitable products and equipment, you should be able to completely remove the stain. Follow the simple steps below to effectively remove blood stains from a carpet.

Step 1 - Tackle the Stain Immediately

As soon as you notice a blood stain you have to make it a point to act as soon as possible. If the blood is still fresh, you have a better chance of removing it. Though the materials list above are not uncommon in a kitchen, it is best to ensure that you have them on hand at all times in case you need to use them in an emergency.

Step 2 - Wet the Stain

First you have to wet the stain. Simply fill a cup with water, mix in some dishwashing liquid and pour it over the blood stain. You may need to pour more water until you see that the area has been soaked well. Make sure not to use hot water as it may make the stain set even more.

Step 3 - Absorbing Process

Use a rag or an old towel to start absorbing the water and blood from the carpet. It is crucial to dab, not wipe or rub as this could further spread the blood. Keep dabbing and pressing until you see the blood getting absorbed.

Step 4 - Using a Laundry Cleaner

If the blood stain is not fresh, you can use other methods. For instance, you can rub some laundry cleaner onto the stain with your fingers, and allow some minutes for it to set. Make sure to use a laundry cleaner that does not contain harmful chemicals that could cause damage to your carpet. Then, use a soft sponge or a toothbrush to rub the area. Never use a scrubber or a brush as it may ruin the carpet's fabric. Finally, use a rag to remove the soapy residue.

Step 5 - Using Chemical Based Cleansers

If the above methods have not proved to be successful, you may need to use stronger chemical-based cleansers. This should only be used as a last resort as such cleansers may likely cause the carpet to fade. Some of these products include hydrogen peroxide or a solution of household ammonia mixed with warm water. In such cases, make sure to use a white rather than a colored cloth to rub the area to avoid transferring color onto the carpet. Spray the solution onto the blood stain, and then blot. Afterwards, rinse the area with water and allow to dry well. Pretesting the solution on an unnoticeable area of the carpet first is recommended.

Alternatively, you could attempt to use a commercial carpet cleaner. These products are usually ideal for a variety of stains, but mild ones may not be sufficient to remove a persistent stain such as blood. However, it is always worth a try before using the more dangerous solutions such as ammonia or peroxide.