Blood stains can be a real nightmare, especially when they land on your favorite carpet or cherished piece of upholstery. But fear not! With the right approach, those daunting stains can become a thing of the past. In this ultimate guide, we're going to walk you through the best methods to tackle and remove blood stains, ensuring your fabrics look as good as new.
Why Blood Stains Are Such a Pain
First off, let's chat about why blood stains can be particularly stubborn. When blood hits a fabric, it quickly begins to coagulate and bind to the fibres, making it a tough opponent against standard cleaning methods. Plus, the longer it sits, the harder it gets to remove. That's why speed is of the essence, but even if you're dealing with an older stain, all hope is not lost!
What Eliminates & Removes Blood Staining?
To break down and remove blood from fabrics, a solution that breaks up proteins is required. Two solutions from our product range that do this, and therefore are good blood removers, are Stain Remover No.1 & Pre Spray No.2.
Immediate Action Steps
Caught the stain early? Perfect! Here’s what you need to do, pronto:
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Blot, Don't Rub: Gently dab the stain with a clean, damp cloth to soak up as much blood as possible. Rubbing can push the blood deeper into the fibres, making the stain worse.
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Cold Water Rinse: Flush the area with cold water. Hot water can set the stain, making it nearly impossible to remove.
Step-by-Step Guide to Blood Stain Removal Using Stain Remover No.1
- Act Quickly: The sooner you address the stain, the better your chances of complete removal.
- Blot the Spot: Gently blot any excess liquid with a clean, dry cloth. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the stain.
- Apply Stain Remover Spray: Using Stain Remover No.1, spray the solution onto the blood stain, soaking liberally.
- Wait it Out: Let the product sit for a few minutes to work its magic. For tougher stains, a longer dwell time may be necessary.
- Blot Again: Gently dab the treated area with a clean cloth to lift away the stain. Repeat if needed.
- Rinse and Dry: Once the stain is gone, lightly dab the area with a water-dampened cloth to remove any residue, or use an extraction machine to lift the product and stain out - then allow it to air dry completely.
Step-by-Step Guide to Blood Stain Removal Using Pre Spray No.2
- Dilute Pre Spray No.2: Pre Spray No.2 works to release bonded on dirt and stains, and breaks up proteins in blood for easier removal. Dilute this product into a spray bottle at 50ml per litre of water. Leave this to the side whilst you prepare your carpet cleaning machine.
- Get your carpet cleaning machine ready: Using a carpet shampoo, such as Clean & Deodorise, dilute this product into your machine as instructed.
- Spray Pre Spray No.2 onto the carpet: Spray the diluted Pre Spray solution onto the carpet. Agitate with a soft broom or brush and then straight away clean using your machine. Leaving the Pre Spray to dry will make it ineffective, so make sure it is still wet when moving onto the next step.
- Clean the blood stain with your carpet cleaning machine: Now use your machine to clean and rinse the blood stain. This should lift out the Pre Spray Treatment, as well as any dirt, odours and product.
- Leave to air dry: You should leave the carpet to air dry, opening windows if you can to help the carpet to dry quicker.
Household Remedies - Do they actually work?
Next, let's explore traditional household remedies. During your online research, you will come across numerous articles that recommend the following methods for removing stubborn blood or red stains:
Hydrogen Peroxide: The Bleaching Hero
Hydrogen peroxide is a mild bleaching agent that can be effective on blood stains. Test it on an inconspicuous area first, as it might lighten some fabrics. Simply apply, let it fizz, and then blot away.
Saltwater Solution: The Natural Fighter
Mix one tablespoon of salt with two cups of cold water. Apply this solution to the stain and gently blot. Salt is great for absorbing and breaking down the blood.
Baking Soda Paste: The Absorption Master
Create a paste with baking soda and cold water, apply it to the stain, and let it sit for up to 30 minutes. Then, dab away with a wet cloth. Baking soda is not only good for absorption but also for deodorising.
The Downside of DIY Remedies
Now, about those household remedies... While reaching for vinegar, baking soda, or hydrogen peroxide might seem like an easy fix, they're not your friends in this battle. Here's why:
- Risk of Damage: These remedies aren't tailored for all carpet types, which means they can damage fibres, fade colors, or leave a residue that attracts more dirt.
- Setting the Stain: An incorrect DIY concoction can cause the stain to set deeper, making it even more of a challenge to remove later.
- Effort vs. Reward: You might find yourself putting in more elbow grease, only to see mediocre results. Why risk it?
Prevention: The Best Strategy
Preventing stains before they happen is always the best strategy. Consider using throw rugs in high-traffic areas and applying fabric protectors to your upholstery. And remember, always treat stains as soon as they happen.
FAQs
Q: Can I use vinegar on blood stains?
A: Yes, vinegar can be effective, especially on fresh stains. Its acidic nature helps to break down the blood. Just dilute it with water and blot the stain.
Q: Are there any risks to using hydrogen peroxide?
A: Hydrogen peroxide can bleach some fabrics, so it's crucial to do a spot test before applying it to the stain.
Q: What should I avoid when treating blood stains?
A: Avoid using hot water, as it can set the stain permanently. Also, steer clear of harsh chemicals that might damage the fabric.
Wrapping It Up
There you have it, folks! With these tips and tricks up your sleeve, those blood stains don't stand a chance. Remember, the key is to act fast and use the right method for your fabric. And when in doubt, calling in the pros is never a bad idea.
