How to Clean Blood Stains Off a Mattress
Blood stains can look worrying, but they’re usually easy to remove if you act quickly. Since mattresses can’t go into a washing machine, the aim is to lift the stain gently without soaking the material.
1. Work on the stain as soon as possible
Fresh stains come out faster. Blot the area with a dry cloth to absorb as much liquid as you can. Avoid rubbing, as this pushes the blood deeper into the mattress.
2. Use cold water only
Cold water helps break down blood. Warm or hot water will set the stain and make it harder to remove. Use a clean cloth dipped in cold water and gently dab the stain.
3. Apply a mild cleaning solution
You can use one of the following:
- A mix of liquid dish soap and cold water
- Hydrogen peroxide for tougher stains
- A paste of baking soda and cold water
Apply the solution lightly and let it sit for 10 to 30 minutes, depending on how old the stain is.
4. Blot, don’t scrub
Blot the area with a clean cloth until the stain starts lifting. Repeat as needed while keeping the mattress as dry as possible.
5. Rinse with clean cold water
Lightly dab the area with a cloth dipped in clean water to remove leftover cleaning solution. This helps prevent marks once the mattress dries.
6. Dry the mattress completely
Speed up drying by opening windows, placing a fan nearby, or using a hair dryer on a cool setting. Make sure the mattress is fully dry before using it again.
7. For old or stubborn stains
Hydrogen peroxide works well on set-in stains. Apply a small amount, let it bubble, blot, and repeat. Very old stains may need several rounds.
When to call a professional
If the stain is large, deep, or causing odours, a professional cleaner can treat the mattress without causing damage. For specialised help, you can explore our mattress and upholstery cleaning services.
And if you want a full home refresh, check out our home cleaning services .
