How To Get Blood Out Of Mattress Protector: Step‑By‑Step FAQ Guide

If you’re searching for how to get blood out of mattress protector, you’re likely dealing with a fresh or dried stain and want to save both your bedding and your mattress. This guide walks through what to do, what to avoid, and how to keep your protector working properly.

Why does blood stain a mattress protector so easily?

Blood stains because it contains proteins that bond to fabric fibers as they dry. On a mattress protector, this can show up as:

  • Dark red or brown patches
  • Stiff or slightly rough fabric in the stained area
  • A ring or outline around the original spot

Acting quickly helps, but even dried blood stains can often be improved or removed with the right steps.

How To Get Blood Out Of Mattress Protector: What’s the basic method?

Here’s a simple, commonly used approach for most fabric mattress protectors:

  1. Remove the protector immediately
    Take it off the bed so blood doesn’t soak further in. Avoid letting it sit.

  2. Blot, don’t rub
    Use a clean, light-colored cloth or paper towel to blot up any excess blood. Press gently; rubbing can push the stain deeper and spread it.

  3. Rinse with cold water
    Hold the stained area under cold running water from the back side of the fabric (the side opposite the stain). This helps push blood out of the fibers instead of further in.

    • Avoid hot water, which can set protein stains.

  4. Pre-treat with a mild cleaner
    Common options include:

    • A small amount of mild liquid detergent mixed with cold water
    • A gentle enzyme-based cleaner labeled safe for fabrics
      Apply to the stain, lightly work it in with your fingers or a soft brush, and let it sit for a few minutes.

  5. Machine wash if allowed
    Check the care label first. If machine washing is recommended:

    • Use a gentle cycle
    • Wash in cold water
    • Use a mild detergent
      Do not use bleach unless the label clearly says it is safe for that fabric.

  6. Air dry completely
    It’s usually safest to air dry mattress protectors, especially those with waterproof layers. High heat can:

    • Damage or warp the waterproof backing
    • Set any remaining stain

    Only use a dryer on low heat if the label says it is safe.

What if the blood stain on the mattress protector is already dry?

Dried blood can be more stubborn, but it’s often still treatable.

  1. Loosen dried residue
    Gently scrape off any crusted blood with a soft brush or the edge of a spoon. Do not scratch so hard that you damage the fabric.

  2. Soak in cold water
    Fill a basin or tub with cold water and submerge the stained area for 30–60 minutes. This helps rehydrate the stain and makes it easier to lift.

  3. Apply a pre-treatment
    After soaking, add:

    • Mild detergent directly to the stain, or
    • A fabric-safe stain remover formulated for protein stains
      Let it sit, then lightly rub the fabric against itself to help loosen the mark.

  4. Wash and air dry
    Machine wash in cold water (if the care label allows) and then air dry.
    If the stain is lighter but still visible, you can repeat the process before the protector is completely dry.

Can I use bleach or strong stain removers?

This depends entirely on the fabric type and care instructions.

  • Many mattress protectors have a waterproof membrane. Harsh chemicals or high-strength bleach can:
    • Break down the waterproof layer
    • Cause peeling, cracking, or stiffness
    • Shorten the life of the protector

When in doubt, avoid chlorine bleach and stick with mild detergent or a gentle, fabric-safe stain remover. Always test any cleaner on a small, hidden area first.

Will cleaning blood affect the waterproof layer?

It can, if the protector is not treated carefully.

To protect the waterproof backing:

  • Use cold or warm (not hot) water
  • Avoid very high dryer heat
  • Stay away from rough scrubbing on the backing itself
  • Skip strong bleach and harsh solvents unless the label explicitly permits them

Handled gently, many protectors stay waterproof even after repeated washes.

How do I prevent blood from soaking through in the future?

Even with a mattress protector, you may want extra precautions during times when stains are more likely:

  • Layer a thin, washable pad or towel on top of your protector.
  • Choose darker-colored sheets that show stains less obviously.
  • Wash bedding soon after any incident to avoid dried, set-in stains.

What if the stain doesn’t come out completely?

Sometimes an older or heavy stain leaves a faint shadow even after cleaning. In that case:

  • The hygiene and waterproof function can still be fine, even if a light mark remains.
  • If the waterproof layer is peeling, cracked, or no longer working, it may be time to replace the protector for ongoing mattress protection.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points about How To Get Blood Out Of Mattress Protector

  • Use cold water only; hot water can set blood stains.
  • Blot, don’t rub, to avoid spreading or pushing the stain deeper.
  • Always check the care label before using any cleaner or machine settings.
  • For dried stains, soak in cold water, then pre-treat and wash.
  • Air drying is usually safest to protect the waterproof layer.
  • Mild detergents and gentle stain removers are usually better than harsh chemicals or strong bleach.
  • Even if a faint mark remains, the protector can still function correctly if the backing is intact.

With patient, gentle cleaning, many blood stains on mattress protectors can be noticeably reduced or removed while keeping your protector working as intended.