How to Get Blood Out of Upholstery: Step-by-Step Instructions

Accidents happen, and sometimes they leave behind stains that seem tough to clean—like blood on your upholstery. Whether it's a fabric couch, a sofa, or a favorite chair, bloodstains can be stubborn and hard to remove. But don’t worry! With the right tools and techniques, you can get rid of these stains effectively and restore your upholstery to its original condition.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to get blood out of upholstery in simple steps. We'll also cover important tips on how to clean sofa stains and how to get stains out of a fabric couch in general. If the stain is tough to manage on your own, we’ll discuss when to consider professional couch cleaning services.

Why Blood Stains Are Hard to Remove

Blood is one of the most challenging stains to clean from fabric because it contains proteins that can bond to the fibers of your upholstery. When blood dries, it becomes even harder to remove, especially on absorbent materials like fabric couches. However, with the right methods, you can tackle both fresh and dried bloodstains.

Things to Keep in Mind Before Starting

1. Act Fast: Fresh blood is much easier to clean than dried blood. If possible, try to address the stain right away.
2. Test First: Before using any cleaning solution, test it on an inconspicuous area of the upholstery to make sure it won’t cause discoloration or damage.
3. Avoid Heat: Heat can set blood stains, making them more difficult to remove. Always use cold water when cleaning blood out of upholstery.
4. Blot, Don’t Rub: Rubbing can push the stain deeper into the fabric, so it’s best to blot gently instead.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Get Blood Out of Upholstery

Step 1: Blot the Stain with a Clean Cloth

If the bloodstain is fresh, use a clean, dry cloth or paper towel to gently blot up as much of the blood as possible. Be sure to blot—do not rub, as rubbing may cause the blood to spread or penetrate deeper into the fabric.

Step 2: Prepare a Cold Water Solution

Since heat can set a blood stain, it's important to use cold water. Fill a small bowl or container with cold water and dip a clean cloth into it. Gently blot the stained area with the cold, damp cloth to further lift the blood from the upholstery.

For tougher stains, you can also mix cold water with a small amount of mild dish soap. Stir until the solution becomes slightly sudsy.

Step 3: Blot with the Soap Solution

Once your soapy cold water solution is ready, dip another clean cloth into the mixture and gently blot the stained area. Again, avoid rubbing. Instead, blot the fabric to lift the blood from the surface. You may need to repeat this step several times, depending on the size and intensity of the stain.

If the bloodstain is large or has dried, you may need to use a soft brush or an old toothbrush to lightly scrub the fabric. Use gentle circular motions to loosen the dried blood.

Step 4: Rinse with Cold Water

After blotting with the soapy water, it’s important to rinse the area to remove any soap residue. Dip a clean cloth into plain cold water and blot the stain again to rinse away the soap. Be sure to remove as much of the soapy solution as possible, as leftover soap can leave a mark or cause dirt to accumulate over time.

Step 5: Dry the Area

Use a dry cloth or paper towel to blot the cleaned area. Remove as much moisture as you can by pressing the cloth down firmly on the spot. You can also use a fan to help dry the area faster.

Step 6: Check for Residual Stains

Once the area has dried, check to see if any of the bloodstain remains. If you still see traces of blood, repeat the above steps until the stain is completely gone. For stubborn stains, you can try some additional cleaning methods (covered below) or consider professional couch cleaning services.

Alternative Cleaning Methods for Tough Stains

If the bloodstain is proving to be difficult to remove, you can try one of these alternative cleaning solutions. Always test any cleaning solution on a hidden area of your upholstery first to make sure it won’t damage the fabric.

1. Baking Soda Paste

Baking soda is a natural cleaning agent that can help break down tough stains. To create a paste, mix one part baking soda with two parts cold water. Apply the paste directly to the bloodstain and let it sit for 30 minutes. After the paste has dried, use a clean cloth or vacuum to remove the residue.

2. Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide can be an effective solution for removing blood stains, but it should be used with caution. It has a bleaching effect, so it’s important to test it on a hidden section of your upholstery before applying it to the stained area.

To use, apply a small amount of hydrogen peroxide directly to the bloodstain. You may notice some fizzing as it breaks down the blood. After the fizzing stops, blot the area with a clean cloth and rinse with cold water.

3. White Vinegar

White vinegar is another natural option for removing blood stains. Mix equal parts white vinegar and cold water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the stained area and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Blot the area with a clean cloth and rinse with cold water afterward.

How to Get Blood Out of Upholstery with Dried Stains

Dried blood is more challenging to remove, but it’s not impossible. You can follow the same steps outlined above, but you may need to repeat the process several times to fully remove the stain.

For dried stains, consider using a soft brush or toothbrush to help loosen the blood from the fabric before blotting with water or cleaning solutions. Scrubbing gently in a circular motion can help lift dried blood particles.

When to Call Professional Couch Cleaning Services

Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, a bloodstain might just be too tough to remove on your own. If the stain has set deep into the fabric, covers a large area, or has caused discoloration, professional couch cleaning services can help.

Here’s when it’s a good idea to call in professionals:

1. Persistent Stains: If the bloodstain doesn’t come out after multiple cleaning attempts, a professional cleaner may have access to more powerful cleaning agents that can lift the stain.
2. Delicate Fabrics: Certain fabrics, like velvet, silk, or antique upholstery, can be sensitive to DIY cleaning solutions. Professional cleaners know the best techniques for delicate materials.
3. Time-Saving: If you’re short on time or don’t want to risk damaging your upholstery, professional cleaners can handle the job quickly and efficiently.

Professionals use specialized equipment and cleaning solutions that are safe for your couch or sofa, ensuring that the upholstery is cleaned without being damaged.

How to Prevent Future Stains

Now that you’ve successfully removed the bloodstain, here are a few tips to prevent future stains:

• Use a Fabric Protector: You can apply a fabric protector spray to your couch or upholstery. This creates a protective barrier, making it easier to clean spills and stains in the future.
• Regular Cleaning: Vacuum your upholstery regularly to prevent dirt and dust from settling into the fabric. This will help reduce wear and make it easier to clean stains.
• Immediate Action: Address spills and stains as soon as they occur. The longer a stain sits, the harder it becomes to remove.

Conclusion

Removing blood from upholstery might seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, it’s entirely possible to do it yourself. Acting quickly is key, especially when it comes to fresh stains, and using cold water is essential to prevent the blood from setting into the fabric. For tougher stains, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, or white vinegar can be helpful alternatives.

If you’re ever in doubt or dealing with a particularly tricky stain, don’t hesitate to contact professional couch cleaning services. They can help restore your upholstery to its original condition without the risk of damage. Now that you know how to clean blood and other tough stains, you can keep your fabric couches and sofas looking their best for years to come.