How to Remove Blood Stains From Clothes

Removing blood stains from clothing can be quick and easy, as long as proper steps are followed. A common mistake people make when attempting to get blood out of clothing is washing the stain in warm water. Be careful to avoid this mistake and remember to always wash blood stains in cold water. Follow our step-by-step guide below to remove blood stains from sheets, towels, jeans and more.

Cotton and synthetic fabrics in a washing machine.

COTTON & COTTON/POLY BLENDS

Good for: white clothes, lights, darks, jeans, towels, sheets

Flush fresh blood in cold water as soon as possible.
Soak in cold water with an enzyme detergent¹ for 30 minutes or longer.
If any stain remains, apply some detergent directly on the stain and wash in cool or cold water with an oxygen bleach.²

POLYESTER, SPANDEX & NYLON

Good for: white clothes, lights, darks, active wear

Flush fresh blood in cold water as soon as possible.
Soak in cold water with an enzyme detergent¹ for 30 minutes or longer.
If any stain remains, apply some detergent directly on the stain and wash in cool or cold water with an oxygen bleach.²

Wool, knits and other delicates in a washing machine.

WOOL, SILK, LINEN, RAYON & ACRYLIC

Good for: sweaters, blouses, sheer fabrics, swimsuits

Flush fresh blood in cold water as soon as possible.
Soak in cold water with gentle detergent for 30 minutes or longer.
If any stain remains, apply some detergent directly on the stain and wash in cool or cold water with an oxygen bleach.²

Whether you’re washing or drying, exposing blood stains to heat will cause proteins to bind to fibers, essentially “cooking” the stain into your clothes.

TERMS TO KNOW FOR THIS STAIN REMOVAL GUIDE

1. Enzyme detergents target stains such as blood, food stains, grass, and others. These are most commonly liquid formulations but powdered formulations are also available. Check the label of your detergent to see if yours contains enzymes.

2. Oxygen bleach is an alternative to traditional chlorine bleach that is generally safe on colours. It's colourless, fragrance-free and comes in either a liquid or powder form.