Blood on Cotton & Clothing

Medium·⏱ 10–20 min

  1. Rinse the stain immediately under cold running water — the force of the water helps push blood out.

  2. Apply hydrogen peroxide directly to the stain and watch it fizz — this breaks up the blood proteins.

  3. After fizzing subsides (30–60 seconds), rinse with cold water.

  4. Apply dish soap, work in gently, rinse.

  5. Machine wash cold. Check before drying.

What you'll need

  • Cold water
  • Dish soap
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Table salt

Common mistakes to avoid

  • ✗Never use hot water — it cooks and permanently sets blood proteins into the fabric.
  • ✗Avoid bleach on anything other than white cotton — it damages fibres and colour.

Pro tip

Fresh blood responds remarkably well to hydrogen peroxide (3% drugstore concentration). For larger stains, pour it on generously.

⚠ Warning

Hydrogen peroxide has a mild bleaching effect on coloured fabrics. Test on a hidden seam first.

Always check the garment's care label and test any solution on a hidden area first. StainsGone provides general household guidance, not professional textile or restoration advice.