Laundry Stains
How to Remove Blood Stains from Cotton Sheets (Fresh vs. Dried)
Quick steps to get blood out of cotton sheets, with separate methods for fresh spills and dried stains. Includes product recommendations and common mistakes to avoid.
What to Do First
Act quickly. Blot the stain with a clean white cloth to remove excess blood. Do not use hot water or put the sheet in the dryer—heat sets the stain permanently. For fresh stains, flush with cold water from the back of the fabric. For dried stains, scrape off any crusted blood gently with a dull knife or edge of a spoon.
For Fresh Blood Stains
Rinse the stained area under cold running water for several minutes. Apply a small amount of liquid laundry detergent (preferably enzyme-based) directly to the stain. Gently rub the fabric together to work in the detergent. Let sit for 5–10 minutes. Rinse again with cold water. If the stain remains, prepare a soaking solution: mix 1 tablespoon of liquid detergent or enzyme cleaner with 1 quart of cold water. Submerge the stained area and soak for 30 minutes to 1 hour. For stubborn fresh stains, add 1 tablespoon of 3% hydrogen peroxide to the soak (test on a hidden area first). Rinse thoroughly and launder as usual with cold water.
For white cotton sheets, you can also try a salt paste: mix salt with a little cold water to form a paste, apply to the stain, let sit for 30 minutes, then rinse. This can help absorb blood before it sets.
For Dried or Set-In Blood Stains
Dried blood requires a longer soak. Mix one tablespoon of liquid laundry detergent or an enzyme cleaner with one quart of cold water. Submerge the stained area and soak for at least 30 minutes (up to overnight for stubborn stains). For tough stains, make a paste of baking soda and cold water, apply to the stain, let dry completely, then brush off the residue. Alternatively, apply 3% hydrogen peroxide directly to the stain (test on an inconspicuous area first), let bubble for 10 minutes, blot with a cloth, and rinse. Repeat as needed. If the stain persists, try a commercial enzyme stain remover formulated for protein stains. Apply according to the product instructions, then launder.
Alternative for white cotton: Soak the sheet in a solution of 1 part hydrogen peroxide to 10 parts cold water for up to 30 minutes. Do not use this on colored sheets without testing.