Removing blood stains from your mattress
A blood stain on your mattress is annoying, but not the end of the world. With the right approach you can get even dried-in blood stains clean again. The most important thing is to tackle it the right way, because with this type of stain one wrong step can actually make the stain more stubborn.
Why blood stains are hard to remove
Blood contains proteins. As soon as they come into contact with heat, they coagulate and bind firmly to the fibres of the mattress. That's why warm water has the opposite effect: it sets the stain.
So always use cold water on blood stains; it keeps the proteins loose so you can rinse them out. Old blood stains take a bit more patience, but they can be treated well too.
Dealing with other biological stains, such as urine stains in your mattress or sweat stains that turn yellow? We can also help you get a stain-free mattress.
What you need
- Cold water
- Salt or soda (sodium bicarbonate)
- A clean cloth or sponge
- White vinegar (optional)
- A steam or hot water cleaner (for old stains)
For deeper cleaning, you can use a spot cleaner that works with hot water or steam. A compact model such as the Achaté Spot Cleaner PRO can help remove old blood residue and bacteria without soaking the mattress.
How to remove a blood stain from your mattress
1. Blot with cold water
Use a clean cloth with cold water to wet the stain. Blot gently, never rub. That way you prevent the blood from spreading.
2. Sprinkle salt or soda on the stain
Salt helps draw blood out of the fibres. Leave it for a few minutes and then blot again with a damp cloth. For stubborn stains, you can also make a paste of baking soda and cold water. Apply it, let it work for a while and then remove it with a damp cloth.
3. Use white vinegar if needed
Vinegar helps with stains that have already dried in slightly. Apply a small amount of diluted vinegar, let it work briefly and blot dry.
4. Deep cleaning for old blood stains
For old or dark stains, you can use a steam cleaner. The heat loosens the dirt, while the suction power removes the moisture right away. Use a low temperature – just warm enough to kill bacteria, but not hot enough to make the proteins coagulate again.
5. Let the mattress dry thoroughly
Stand it upright near an open window or use a fan. A dry mattress prevents odours and new discolouration.
Removing dried-in blood stains
Old blood stains are a bit trickier because the blood has already soaked into the fabric. First moisten the stain slightly again with cold water and then apply baking soda. Let it work for a few hours.
Finish with a short steam treatment for a thorough result. That way not only the stain disappears, but also any odour or bacteria.
Preventing blood stains from soaking in
- Use a molton or waterproof mattress protector.
- Always blot a stain immediately. The faster you act, the better the result.
- Avoid warm water and aggressive cleaning products.
- Clean the mattress now and then with a light steam treatment to keep it fresh.
Besides blood, also struggling with yellowing or other marks? Then read our guide on yellow stains in your mattress.
Frequently asked questions about removing blood stains
How do I remove a blood stain from my mattress?
Blot the stain with cold water, sprinkle salt or baking soda on it and let it soak in for a while. Then blot dry. For older stains, you can use steam or hot water to loosen deep-set dirt.
Does warm water work on blood stains?
No, quite the opposite. Warm water makes the proteins in blood coagulate, which can make the stain permanent. Always use cold water.
What helps with old blood stains?
Moisten the spot with cold water and apply a paste of baking soda. Let it work and, if needed, finish with a steam clean.
Can I use bleach?
No, it damages the mattress and can cause yellow stains. It's better to use natural products such as salt, soda or vinegar.
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