How To Get Blood Out Of Mattress: Simple Methods That Actually Help

If you’re searching for “How To Get Blood Out Of Mattress”, you’re likely dealing with a fresh spill or an old, stubborn stain. This guide walks you through safe, practical ways to clean blood from a mattress without damaging the materials or making the stain worse.

Why Is Blood So Hard To Remove From a Mattress?

Blood contains proteins that can bond to fabrics as they dry, especially in porous materials like mattress covers and foams. Once set, these stains often turn dark and can be harder to lift.

Two things matter most:

  • How fresh the stain is – fresh is easier to treat.
  • What you use to clean it – the right solution can help break down the stain, while the wrong one can set it.

How To Get Blood Out Of Mattress: Step-by-Step for Fresh Stains

1. Act Quickly and Blot, Don’t Rub

  1. Remove bedding and set it aside to wash separately.
  2. Use a clean, light-colored cloth or paper towel.
  3. Blot gently to absorb as much blood as possible.
    • Do not scrub, as this can push the blood deeper into the mattress.

2. Use Cold Water Only

Cold water helps prevent the proteins in blood from setting:

  1. Lightly dampen a cloth with cold water.
  2. Blot the stain from the outside in, so it doesn’t spread.
  3. Avoid soaking the mattress; too much moisture can stay trapped inside.

If the stain is still visible, move on to a mild cleaning solution.

What Home Remedies Work Best on Blood Stains?

When learning how to get blood out of mattress surfaces, many people turn to simple household ingredients. Always spot-test in a hidden area first to make sure your mattress fabric reacts well.

Mild Soap Solution

  • Mix a small amount of gentle liquid soap with cold water.
  • Dip a cloth in the solution, wring it out well, then dab the stained area.
  • Follow with a cloth dampened with plain cold water to remove soap residue.

Salt Paste

  • Mix salt and cold water into a thick paste.
  • Spread a thin layer over the stain and let it sit for about 15–20 minutes.
  • Wipe away with a damp cloth and blot dry.

Baking Soda Treatment

  • Sprinkle baking soda lightly over the damp stain.
  • Let it sit for 30–60 minutes to help break down and lift discoloration.
  • Vacuum up the baking soda once the area is fully dry.

How Do You Remove Dried or Old Blood Stains?

Dried blood stains are more stubborn, but you can often fade them significantly.

  1. Lightly dampen the stained area with cold water. This helps soften the dried residue.
  2. Use a gentle cleaning solution (such as mild soap and water) and dab repeatedly.
  3. Allow the mattress to air dry fully between treatments, then repeat as needed.

Multiple light treatments are usually safer than one aggressive one. Avoid harsh scrubbing, which can damage fabric or surface fibers.

What Should You Avoid When Cleaning Blood from a Mattress?

Knowing what not to do is just as important as learning how to get blood out of mattress surfaces safely.

  • No hot water – it can cause blood to set permanently.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals unless you are sure they’re safe for your mattress type.
  • Don’t oversaturate – too much liquid can soak into deep layers.
  • Skip aggressive brushing – this can fray fabric and spread the stain.

If your mattress has a manufacturer’s care tag, check it before using any cleaning solution.

How Do You Dry and Deodorize the Mattress After Cleaning?

After treating a stain, it’s important to let the mattress dry thoroughly:

  • Open windows or use a fan for airflow.
  • Let the area dry completely before putting sheets back on.
  • For light odor control, a thin sprinkle of baking soda over the cleaned area can help; vacuum once dry.

Keeping the mattress dry helps prevent lingering smells and keeps the surface more comfortable to sleep on.

Can a Mattress Protector Help With Future Stains?

While this doesn’t change how to get blood out of mattress fabrics today, it can help for next time:

  • A removable, washable protector can act as a barrier between spills and your mattress.
  • Many sleepers prefer protectors that are water-resistant but breathable for comfort.

This doesn’t fix current stains, but it can make future cleanup much easier.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points about how to get blood out of mattress surfaces

  • Act fast on fresh stains: blot gently with a clean cloth and cold water.
  • Use cold water only: hot water can set blood stains permanently.
  • Start mild: gentle soap, salt paste, or baking soda are common at-home options.
  • Treat dried stains patiently: repeated light applications usually work better than one harsh attempt.
  • Avoid over-wetting the mattress to prevent trapped moisture.
  • Let it dry fully before making the bed again.
  • Check care instructions on your specific mattress fabric before using any cleaner.

With careful blotting, mild solutions, and patience, many blood stains can be noticeably reduced or removed without damaging your mattress.