Remove Blood Stains from a Mattress: Step-by-Step Guide

Blood stains on a mattress can look intimidating, but with the right approach you can often remove them safely at home. The key is to act carefully, avoid harsh scrubbing, and use the right products for your mattress type. Below is a simple, step-by-step guide to help you deal with both fresh and dried blood stains.

Important Rules Before You Start

• Use cold water only: Hot water can set blood stains permanently.
• Do not oversaturate: Mattresses absorb moisture easily and can grow mold if soaked.
• Always blot, never scrub: Scrubbing pushes stains deeper into the material.
• Check care instructions: If your mattress has a specific care label, follow it.

What You’ll Need

• Cold water in a bowl or spray bottle
• Clean white cloths or paper towels
• Liquid dish soap (mild)
• Hydrogen peroxide 3% (for light-colored, colorfast fabrics only)
• Baking soda (optional, for deodorizing and boosting cleaning)
• Soft-bristled brush or old toothbrush (gentle use only)
• Vacuum with upholstery attachment (for dried baking soda)

Step 1: Strip the Bed and Assess the Stain

1. Remove all sheets, mattress protectors, and bedding immediately.
2. Place stained linens aside to treat separately (never put blood-stained fabric directly in hot water).
3. Check how deep the blood has soaked into the mattress surface.

Step 2: Treat Fresh Blood Stains with Cold Water

Best for stains that are still wet or slightly damp.

1. Dampen a clean white cloth with cold water (do not soak it).
2. Blot the stain gently, working from the outside toward the center.
3. Rinse the cloth in cold water as it absorbs blood, then continue blotting.
4. Repeat until no more blood transfers onto the cloth.

If the stain lightens but does not fully disappear, move to Step 3 for a mild cleaning solution.

Step 3: Apply a Mild Soap Solution

Safe first step for most mattress fabrics.

1. Mix a few drops of mild liquid dish soap with cold water.
2. Dampen a clean cloth with the soapy solution (do not pour directly onto the mattress).
3. Blot the stained area gently. Avoid scrubbing or pushing moisture deep into the mattress.
4. Use a separate cloth dampened with plain cold water to blot and rinse away soap residue.
5. Blot with a dry towel to remove as much moisture as possible.

Step 4: Treat Dried Blood Stains

If the blood has already dried, it may need extra help to break up.

Option A: Cold Water and Gentle Agitation

1. Lightly mist the dried stain with cold water to rehydrate it.
2. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently loosen the dried blood on the surface.
3. Blot with a cold, damp cloth to lift the loosened particles.

Option B: Hydrogen Peroxide (Light-Colored Mattresses Only)

Always test in a hidden area first. Hydrogen peroxide can lighten some fabrics.

1. Apply a small amount of 3% hydrogen peroxide to a cotton swab or cloth.
2. Touch the stain gently-do not soak the mattress.
3. You may see light fizzing as the peroxide reacts with the blood.
4. Blot with a clean, dry cloth to lift the stain and excess liquid.
5. Repeat in small amounts until the stain fades, then blot with a damp cloth to remove residue.

Step 5: Boost Cleaning with Baking Soda (Optional)

Baking soda can help absorb remaining moisture and reduce any lingering odor.

1. While the area is still slightly damp, sprinkle a light layer of baking soda over the stain.
2. Let it sit for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight if possible.
3. Vacuum the baking soda thoroughly using an upholstery attachment.

Step 6: Dry the Mattress Completely

• Open windows or use fans to improve airflow around the mattress.
• Allow the mattress to dry fully before putting sheets back on-this may take several hours.
• If possible, stand the mattress upright in a well-ventilated area.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using hot water: This can set blood stains permanently.
• Scrubbing aggressively: This damages fibers and drives the stain deeper.
• Soaking the mattress: Too much liquid can cause mold or mildew inside.
• Skipping a test spot: Peroxide and cleaners should always be tested in an inconspicuous area.
• Ignoring lingering odor or discoloration: This may indicate deeper contamination that needs professional care.

When to Call a Professional Mattress Cleaner

Some blood stains are too large, too old, or too deep for safe DIY removal. Consider calling a professional if:

• The stain covers a large area or has soaked into the core of the mattress.
• You’ve tried home methods and the stain or odor is still noticeable.
• Your mattress is high-end, memory foam, or has special care instructions.
• You want sanitizing and deep extraction in addition to stain removal.

Professional Mattress Cleaning Help

If you prefer expert help instead of trial and error, a professional upholstery and mattress cleaning service can use specialized products and controlled extraction to safely treat blood stains.

For safe, fabric-specific mattress cleaning and stain removal, visit the homepage of your trusted local cleaner or book a professional service to restore your mattress to a fresh, hygienic condition.