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

If you’re searching for how to get old blood stains out of mattress, you’re dealing with one of the toughest common mattress stains. The good news: with patience and the right approach, many dried blood stains can be lightened significantly or removed.

Below are clear answers to the most frequent questions about cleaning dried blood from a mattress, plus safe methods you can use at home.

Why are old blood stains so hard to remove from a mattress?

Blood contains proteins that bond to fabric fibers as they dry. On a mattress, this is even trickier because:

  • You can’t just throw it in the washing machine.
  • Moisture can soak deep into layers.
  • Scrubbing aggressively can damage the surface or spread the stain.

Old stains have had more time to set, so they usually need more than one treatment and a gentler, repeated approach rather than one harsh attempt.

What should I do before treating an old blood stain?

Before using any cleaning solution, take these steps:

  • Strip the bed completely (sheets, protector, topper).
  • Vacuum the area to remove dust and loose debris.
  • Blot, don’t rub, with a slightly damp white cloth to loosen any surface residue.
  • Test any cleaner on a small, hidden spot first to check for discoloration.

Always keep moisture controlled. Soaking a mattress can lead to lingering dampness and odor inside the layers.

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

Here is a simple, commonly used approach with household supplies:

  1. Mix a gentle cleaning solution

    • Cool water
    • A small amount of mild liquid soap or a small amount of baking soda
      Avoid hot water—heat can help set protein stains like blood.

  2. Dampen (don’t soak) the stained area

    • Use a clean cloth to apply the solution.
    • Work from the outside of the stain inward to avoid spreading it.

  3. Blot repeatedly

    • Press a dry cloth or paper towel onto the damp area.
    • Alternate between applying solution and blotting.
    • You should see some color lifting onto the cloth.

  4. Rinse lightly

    • Use another cloth dampened with plain cool water to blot away any soapy residue.

  5. Dry thoroughly

    • Press with dry towels.
    • Allow plenty of air circulation.
    • If possible, place the mattress in a well‑ventilated area until fully dry.

This process may need to be repeated several times for older or darker stains.

Are there specific household ingredients that work well on dried blood?

Several gentle ingredients are commonly used for how to get old blood stains out of mattress:

  • Baking soda: Often used as a mild cleaner and deodorizer.
  • Hydrogen peroxide (low concentration): Common for light-colored, non‑delicate fabrics; may lighten or discolor darker materials.
  • Salt and cold water paste: Can help lift some types of protein stains.

Example: Baking soda method

  1. Lightly dampen the stain with cool water.
  2. Sprinkle baking soda over the area.
  3. Let it sit for about 30 minutes.
  4. Blot with a damp cloth, then with a dry cloth.
  5. Vacuum once completely dry.

Always test methods like hydrogen peroxide on an unseen area first, as they may lighten the fabric or finish.

Will scrubbing or strong cleaners speed things up?

Not usually. Aggressive scrubbing can:

  • Push the stain deeper into the mattress
  • Rough up or damage the cover fabric
  • Spread the stain outward

Strong, undiluted chemicals may:

  • Fade or bleach the material
  • Weaken fabric fibers
  • Create lingering odors

A better approach is gentle blotting, repeated applications, and patience.

How long will it take to remove an old blood stain?

Time depends on:

  • Age of the stain (weeks or months are harder to treat)
  • Mattress material (smooth covers are easier than highly textured ones)
  • Depth of the stain (surface vs. soaked into layers)

Many people find that multiple short sessions over a day or two are more effective than one long, overly wet treatment.

How can I dry the mattress safely after cleaning?

Proper drying is just as important as stain removal:

  • Use clean, dry towels to absorb as much moisture as possible.
  • Let the mattress air dry completely before replacing bedding.
  • If available, point a fan at the damp area or open windows for airflow.
  • Avoid trapping moisture under sheets or protectors too soon.

A mattress that feels dry on the surface can still be damp inside, so extra drying time is helpful.

How can I prevent future blood stains on my mattress?

While accidents happen, you can make cleanup easier by:

  • Using a water-resistant mattress protector.
  • Treating any new stain as soon as you notice it.
  • Blotting with cool water right away instead of letting it sit and dry.

Fresh stains are typically much easier to remove than old, set-in ones.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points to understand about how to get old blood stains out of mattress:

  • Act gently, not aggressively

    • Blot with cool water and mild solutions; avoid hot water and harsh scrubbing.

  • Use common, gentle cleaners

    • Baking soda, mild soap, and carefully tested hydrogen peroxide are widely used options.

  • Avoid over‑soaking your mattress

    • Lightly dampen and blot; too much liquid can cause deeper issues than the stain itself.

  • Expect multiple treatments for old stains

    • Older, darker blood stains usually fade gradually rather than disappearing instantly.

  • Dry completely before making the bed

    • Good airflow and patience help protect your mattress and prevent lingering dampness.

With a calm, step‑by‑step approach and realistic expectations, you can usually significantly improve or remove old blood stains and keep your mattress fresher for longer.