Carpet & Upholstery
How to Remove Dried Blood from a Mattress: A Safe, Step-by-Step Guide
Dried blood on a mattress can be stubborn, but you can lift it with hydrogen peroxide and dish soap. Here's a practical guide for dried stains, with mattress-specific precautions and what to avoid.
Finding dried blood on a mattress is unsettling, but it's a common problem that can be solved with a few household items. The key is to act carefully to avoid spreading the stain or damaging the mattress fibers. This guide will walk you through a safe, step-by-step method using hydrogen peroxide, dish soap, and baking soda.
What You'll Need
- 3% hydrogen peroxide (check the label)
- Dish soap (preferably clear, like Dawn)
- Cold water
- Clean white cloths or paper towels
- Baking soda
- Soft-bristled brush (optional)
- Vacuum with upholstery attachment
First Steps: Blot, Don't Rub
Before applying any solution, gently scrape off any dried crust with a dull knife or spoon. Then, blot the area with a dry cloth to remove loose particles. Never rub, as that can push the stain deeper into the mattress.
Readers may also find How to Remove Hard Water Stains from a Stainless Steel Sink, How to Remove Dog Vomit from a Carpet: Fresh and Dried Stains, and How to Remove Red Wine from a Linen Tablecloth: Fresh and Dried Stains useful. For more stories like this, browse our Surface Safety section.
The Main Method: Hydrogen Peroxide and Dish Soap
Hydrogen peroxide is effective at breaking down blood proteins, but it can have a bleaching effect, so test it on an inconspicuous spot first. Here's the step-by-step process:
- Test for colorfastness: Apply a drop of hydrogen peroxide to a hidden area of the mattress (like under a corner) and wait 10 minutes. If the color changes, do not proceed; use cold water and dish soap only.
- Apply hydrogen peroxide: Pour a small amount of 3% hydrogen peroxide directly onto the stain. You should see it bubble as it reacts with the blood.
- Blot with a clean cloth: Use a clean white cloth to blot the area, lifting the dissolved blood. Keep blotting until no more color transfers to the cloth.
- Mix dish soap solution: In a small bowl, mix one teaspoon of dish soap with two cups of cold water.
- Apply the soap solution: Dip a clean cloth in the soapy water and gently dab the stain, working from the outside in to prevent spreading.
- Rinse with cold water: Dampen another cloth with plain cold water and blot to remove any soap residue.
- Blot dry: Press a dry cloth firmly on the area to absorb as much moisture as possible.
- Apply baking soda: Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the damp area to absorb remaining moisture and help neutralize odors. Leave it for several hours or overnight.
- Vacuum: Vacuum up the baking soda using the upholstery attachment.