How To Get Blood Out Of Mattress Cover: Simple Steps That Really Help

If you’re searching for How To Get Blood Out Of Mattress Cover, you’re likely dealing with a fresh or dried stain and want to fix it without damaging your bedding. This guide walks you through safe, practical methods to clean blood from a mattress cover, plus answers to common follow‑up questions.

Why is blood so hard to remove from a mattress cover?

Blood contains proteins that bond to fabric fibers, especially when exposed to heat. That’s why:

  • Warm or hot water can set the stain
  • Letting the stain dry often makes it harder to remove
  • Mattress covers, especially waterproof or quilted ones, may need gentler cleaning to avoid damage

The good news: with cool water, patience, and the right technique, many people can significantly reduce or even remove blood stains from a mattress cover.

How To Get Blood Out Of Mattress Cover: Step‑by‑Step

1. Act quickly if the stain is fresh

If possible, address the stain as soon as you notice it.

  1. Remove the mattress cover

    • Check the care label first for washing instructions.
    • If the cover is non‑removable, see the section further below on spot cleaning.

  2. Blot, don’t rub

    • Use a clean cloth or paper towel to gently blot up excess blood.
    • Avoid scrubbing, which can push the stain deeper into the fabric.

  3. Rinse with cold water

    • Hold the stained area under cold running water from the back of the fabric so the blood moves out, not further in.
    • Do this until you see less color coming out.

2. Treating the stain before washing

To improve your chances of success, pre‑treat the area before machine washing.

Common gentle options include:

  • Mild liquid detergent

    • Apply a small amount directly to the stain.
    • Gently work it into the fabric with your fingers or a soft brush.

  • Baking soda paste

    • Mix baking soda with a little cold water to form a paste.
    • Spread over the stain, let sit for 30–60 minutes, then rinse with cold water.

  • Salt and cold water

    • Make a thin paste from table salt and cold water.
    • Apply to the stain, allow it to sit for a short time, then rinse thoroughly.

🧼 Tip: Always test any cleaner on a small, hidden area of the mattress cover first to check for color fading or damage.

3. Machine washing a removable cover

If the care label says the cover is machine‑washable:

  • Use cold water only
  • Choose a gentle or delicate cycle
  • Use a mild detergent
  • Avoid bleach unless the label clearly says it is safe for that fabric

After washing, check the stain before drying. If it’s still visible, repeat the pre‑treatment and wash cycle. Heat from a dryer can make the stain much harder to remove.

What if the blood stain is already dry?

Dried blood can still often be improved with soaking and patience.

  1. Soak in cold water

    • Submerge the stained area in a tub or sink filled with cold water.
    • Let it soak for 30 minutes to several hours to help loosen dried blood.

  2. Re‑treat and wash

    • After soaking, follow the same steps: pre‑treat, then wash in cold water.
    • You may need to repeat the process more than once.

  3. Avoid harsh scrubbing

    • Too much force can roughen or damage the fabric fibers, especially on delicate covers.

How do I clean blood from a non‑removable mattress cover?

Some mattress covers are sewn on and can’t be removed. In that case, you’ll need to spot clean:

  1. Blot up any fresh blood with a clean cloth or paper towel.
  2. Dampen a cloth with cold water and gently dab the stain.
  3. Apply a small amount of mild detergent diluted in cold water to the cloth, then gently work on the stain.
  4. Blot with a clean, damp cloth to remove soap residue.
  5. Allow the area to air dry completely before putting sheets back on.

Try to avoid soaking the mattress itself; use only as much moisture as you need to treat the stained cover.

Can I use hot water, bleach, or strong chemicals?

  • Hot water: Usually not recommended for blood stains. It can cause the proteins to set in the fibers.
  • Bleach: May be suitable only for white, bleach-safe fabrics and should be used cautiously. It can weaken fabric and cause yellowing or discoloration.
  • Strong stain removers: Some can be effective but may also be too harsh for mattress covers, especially waterproof ones, potentially damaging coatings or seams.

When in doubt, start with cool water and gentle methods and follow the care label closely.

How long should I let stain removers sit?

For most simple household treatments:

  • Mild detergent: A few minutes up to about 15–20 minutes before rinsing.
  • Baking soda or salt paste: Usually 30–60 minutes.

Leaving products on too long can sometimes dry out and leave residue, so rinsing thoroughly with cold water is important.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points to understand about How To Get Blood Out Of Mattress Cover

  • Use cold water only for blood stains; hot water can set the stain.
  • Blot instead of scrub to avoid pushing blood deeper into the fabric.
  • Pre‑treat before washing with mild detergent, baking soda paste, or a gentle cleaning solution.
  • Check the care label on your mattress cover before using any cleaner or machine wash.
  • Air dry and inspect before using heat; a dryer can make remaining stains more stubborn.
  • For non‑removable covers, rely on careful spot cleaning and minimal moisture.
  • Dried stains usually need soaking in cold water plus repeated, gentle cleaning attempts.

Knowing How To Get Blood Out Of Mattress Cover helps you protect your mattress, extend the life of your bedding, and keep your sleep surface looking and smelling clean. With cool water, gentle products, and a bit of patience, many blood stains can be lightened or significantly reduced without harming the cover.