Cotton clothes are a popular choice of fabric for many people because of their softness and breathability. However, one of the downsides to cotton clothes is that they are prone to stains, especially blood stains. Blood stains can be tough to remove, but with the right techniques and products, you can get your cotton clothes looking as good as new.
What You Need to Remove Blood Stains from Cotton Clothes
Before you start removing blood stains from your cotton clothes, you need to have the right products and tools. Here are some of the things you’ll need:
- Cold water
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Dish soap
- A clean, white cloth
- A soft-bristled brush
Pre-Treating Blood Stains
Before you can remove a blood stain from your cotton clothes, you need to pre-treat it. Here’s how:
Step 1: Soak the Stain in Cold Water
Fill a sink or bucket with cold water and soak the stained area for about 30 minutes. Cold water helps to loosen the blood stain and prevent it from setting in.
Step 2: Apply Hydrogen Peroxide
After soaking the stain in cold water, apply hydrogen peroxide directly to the stain. Hydrogen peroxide helps to break down the proteins in the blood, making it easier to remove. Be sure to test any products on an inconspicuous area of your cotton clothes before applying it to the stain.
Step 3: Apply Baking Soda
After applying hydrogen peroxide, sprinkle baking soda over the stained area. Baking soda helps to absorb any remaining blood and neutralize any odors. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently work the baking soda into the fabric.
Step 4: Soak the Stain in Salt Water
Fill a sink or bucket with cold water and add a teaspoon of salt. Soak the stained area in the salt water for about an hour. Salt helps to lift the blood stain out of the fabric.
Removing Blood Stains from Cotton Clothes
Now that you’ve pre-treated the blood stain, it’s time to remove it completely. Here’s how:
Step 1: Apply Dish Soap
After soaking the stain in salt water, apply a small amount of dish soap directly to the stained area. Dish soap helps to break down any remaining oils in the blood stain. Use a soft-bristled brush to work the dish soap into the fabric.
Step 2: Rinse with Cold Water
Rinse the stained area with cold water to remove any remaining soap and blood. Be sure to rinse the fabric thoroughly.
Step 3: Wash the Clothes in Cold Water
After removing the blood stain, wash your cotton clothes in cold water. Hot water can set the stain, so be sure to use cold water to prevent any further damage. Use a laundry detergent that is safe for cotton clothes and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
Tips for Removing Stubborn Blood Stains
If your blood stain is particularly stubborn, here are a few tips that can help:
- Try using a commercial stain remover specifically designed for blood stains
- Apply a mixture of water and ammonia to the stained area and let it sit for about 30 minutes before washing
- Use a bleach alternative, like hydrogen peroxide, to whiten the fabric after removing the blood stain
- Take your cotton clothes to a professional cleaner if the stains are particularly stubborn or if you’re not comfortable washing them yourself
Conclusion
Removing blood stains from cotton clothes can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. With the right techniques and products, you can get your cotton clothes looking as good as new. Remember to pre-treat the stain, use cold water, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions when washing your clothes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use hot water to remove blood stains from cotton clothes?
- What if the blood stain is still visible after washing?
- Can I use bleach to remove blood stains from cotton clothes?
- Should I take my cotton clothes to a professional cleaner?
No, hot water can set the stain, making it more difficult to remove. Always use cold water when removing blood stains from cotton clothes.
If the stain is still visible after washing, try pre-treating the stain again with hydrogen peroxide and baking soda before washing again.
Bleach can be harsh on cotton clothes and can cause them to yellow over time. Try using a bleach alternative, like hydrogen peroxide, instead.
If the stain is particularly stubborn or if you’re not comfortable washing your cotton clothes yourself, it’s a good idea to take them to a professional cleaner.
References
1. Home Remedies to Remove Blood Stains from Clothes. (2021). Retrieved August 4, 2021, from https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-remove-blood-stains-from-clothing
2. How to Get Blood out of Clothes: The Ultimate Guide. (2021). Retrieved August 4, 2021, from https://www.tide.com/en-us/how-to-wash-clothes/how-to-remove-stains/how-to-get-blood-out-of-clothes-the-ultimate-guide
3. How to Get Blood Out of Clothes: Tested and Proven Methods. (2021). Retrieved August 4, 2021, from https://www.byrdie.com/how-to-get-blood-out-of-clothes-5094038