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How to Remove Blood Stains from Clothes & Sheets
This guide walks you through step-by-step methods for how to get blood out of clothes, including bedding and sheets.
Blood stains are notoriously tricky to remove because they contain protein and iron, which bind tightly to fabric fibers and become much harder to treat once they set. To stand the best chance, it’s crucial to act fast. Always start with cold water and avoid using heat until you’re sure the stain is gone. This guide walks you through step-by-step methods to remove blood stains and restore your fabrics safely and effectively.
What should i use to remove blood stains?
Cold water
Clean cloths
Soft brush
Mild detergent
Gloves
How to get blood stains out of clothes
Rinse immediately
Use cold water to flush the stain from the back of the fabric.
Blot, don't rub
Use a clean cloth to absorb excess blood.
Pre-treat
Apply Clorox 2™ for Colors directly to the stain and let sit for 10 minutes.
Machine wash
Use detergent and Clorox 2™ for Colors in cold water as directed.
Check before drying
Repeat wash if stain remains. Heat can set stains permanently.
How to get blood out of jeans
Rinse
Immediately rinse with cold water from the back of the stain.
Scrub gently
Use a soft brush and Clorox 2™ for Colors to lift stain from fibers.
Soak, if needed
Let jeans sit in cold water with detergent for 30 minutes.
Machine wash
Use cold water and Clorox 2™ for Colors.
Repeat
Dried stains may require multiple treatments.
How to get blood out of sheets
Rinse thoroughly
Use cold water to flush the stain.
Pre-treat
Apply Clorox 2™ for Colors, or diluted Clorox™ Disinfecting Bleach solution for white bleach-safe fabrics.
Soak
Let sheets sit in cold water with detergent for 30 minutes.
Machine wash
Use detergent. Add Clorox™ Disinfecting Bleach as directed for white bleach-safe sheets, or Clorox 2™ for Colors for non-bleach-safe fabrics.
Air dry
Avoid heat until stain is fully removed.
DIY solutions to remove blood stains
If you're looking for a bleach-free cleaning option, Clorox 2™ for Colors has the cleaning power you need to remove blood stains from fabric fibers. See it in action here.
If Clorox 2™ for Colors isn’t available, here are some natural household alternatives you can try in a pinch.
| Cleaner | Notes |
|---|---|
| Baking soda | Helps lift stains and neutralize odors |
| White vinegar | Breaks down stains but can dull colors over time |
| Hydrogen peroxide | Effective stain lifter for whites; may bleach colors |
| Salt/saline | Draws moisture from fresh stains; best for immediate spot treatment |
| Lemon juice | Natural acid helps break down stains but can discolor fabrics |
Tips to remove blood stains with bleach
- Not sure what bleach-to-water ratio you need? Check out our handy chart.
- Use freshly mixed solutions. Bleach degrades over time when diluted.
- Never mix bleach with vinegar, ammonia or any other cleaner. Doing so can create dangerous fumes.
- Wear gloves and ensure good ventilation during use.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I use hot or cold water to remove blood stains?
Always start with cold water. Blood contains proteins that can bind to fabric fibers when exposed to heat, making the stain harder to remove. Cold water helps flush out the stain without setting it, giving you the best chance at lifting it completely before washing.
- How can I get blood stains out of colored cotton?
For colored cotton, skip the bleach and reach for a color-safe option like Clorox 2™ for Colors. It’s specially formulated to lift protein-based stains like blood without fading your fabrics. Just pretreat the stain, let it sit for 10 minutes and wash in cold water. Repeat if needed before drying.
- What gets blood out of clothes?
The most effective method depends on the fabric and how fresh the stain is. For whites, Clorox™ Disinfecting Bleach works well when used as directed. For colors, Clorox 2™ is your go-to. Always rinse with cold water first, pretreat and avoid heat until the stain is gone.
- Will bleach remove blood stains?
Yes. Bleach is highly effective on white, bleach-safe fabrics. Mix the correct ratio (⅓ cup bleach per gallon of water), apply to the stain and let it sit for 10 minutes before washing. Just be sure to check the care label and avoid using bleach on colored or delicate fabrics.
- Will blood stains come out in the wash?
Not always. If you toss a blood-stained item into the wash without pretreating, the stain may set permanently. Always rinse with cold water, pretreat with Clorox 2™ for Colors or Clorox™ Disinfecting Bleach (depending on fabric type) and check the stain before drying. Repeat the process if needed.
- How do I get dried blood out of a mattress?
Dried blood on a mattress requires a gentle but effective approach. Start by blotting with cold water, then apply a mild detergent or oxygen-based cleaner like Clorox 2™ for Colors. Avoid soaking the mattress. Instead, use a damp cloth and repeat as needed. Let it air dry completely.
- How do I remove blood stains from white sheets and clothes?
White fabrics are bleach-friendly, so Clorox™ Disinfecting Bleach is ideal. Rinse the stain with cold water, apply a bleach solution and let it sit for 10 minutes. Wash in cold water and check the stain before drying. Repeat if necessary for older or set-in stains.
- How do I remove menstrual blood stains?
Rinse with cold water, pretreat with Clorox 2™ for Colors and wash in cold water. Avoid heat until the stain is gone. For more detailed steps, check out our guide on how to get period blood stains out of underwear & clothes.