How To Remove An Old Blood Stain From a Mattress: Step‑by‑Step Guide

If you’re searching for how to remove an old blood stain from a mattress, you’re likely dealing with a dried, stubborn mark that didn’t get cleaned right away. The good news: while old blood stains are tougher than fresh ones, they can often be lightened or removed with patience and the right approach.

This FAQ-style guide walks you through safe, mattress-friendly methods to treat dried blood, plus what to avoid so you don’t damage your bed.

Why Are Old Blood Stains So Hard to Remove?

Blood contains proteins that bond to fabric as they dry, especially when exposed to warmth. On a mattress, this can sink into the outer fabric and even slightly into the comfort layers.

Key challenges with old blood stains:

  • The stain is fully set, not just on the surface
  • Heat (like warm water or a hair dryer) can “cook” it in further
  • Scrubbing too hard can spread or push it deeper

The goal is to break down and lift the stain gently, without soaking the mattress.

What Should I Do First Before Cleaning?

Before you dive into cleaning, take a few simple steps:

  1. Strip the bed
    Remove sheets, mattress protector, and any pad. Launder those separately according to their care labels.

  2. Check your mattress type
    Most methods below are safe for traditional mattresses, but be especially gentle with:

    • Memory foam
    • Latex
    • Pillow-top designs
      These materials should never be saturated with liquid.

  3. Test a small area
    On a hidden spot, test your chosen cleaner to check for:

    • Discoloration
    • Fabric weakening
    • Any unusual reaction

  4. Blot, don’t scrub
    Even for older stains, avoid aggressive scrubbing that can damage the fabric and spread the mark.

How To Remove An Old Blood Stain From a Mattress: Main Methods

1. Cold Water and Mild Soap (Start Here)

Even for old stains, begin with the gentlest option:

  1. Mix cold water with a small amount of mild liquid soap.
  2. Dip a clean cloth into the solution, wring it out well.
  3. Blot the stain from the outside edge inward.
  4. Use a second cloth dampened with plain cold water to blot away soap residue.
  5. Pat dry with a dry towel.

If the stain lightens, you may not need stronger methods.

2. Enzymatic Cleaner for Dried Protein Stains

For older, darker stains, a gentle enzymatic cleaner designed for fabrics can be helpful.

  1. Apply a small amount to a cloth (not directly onto the mattress).
  2. Gently blot the stained area, working it into the fabric, without soaking.
  3. Allow it to sit for the time suggested on the product instructions.
  4. Blot with a clean damp cloth to remove residue.
  5. Press with a dry towel to remove as much moisture as possible.

This method works by helping break down the proteins in dried blood.

3. Baking Soda and Cold Water Paste

Baking soda can be useful for lifting and deodorizing older stains.

  1. Mix baking soda with cold water into a thick paste.
  2. Spread a thin layer over the stain.
  3. Let it sit for about 30 minutes.
  4. Gently remove the dried paste with a spoon or cloth.
  5. Lightly dampen a cloth with cold water and blot any remaining residue.
  6. Pat dry with a clean towel.

Avoid leaving the paste on for very long periods if your mattress fabric is delicate.

What Should I Avoid When Cleaning Old Blood Stains?

When figuring out how to remove an old blood stain from a mattress, what you don’t do can be just as important:

  • No hot water: Heat sets protein stains and makes them harder to remove.
  • No harsh scrubbing: This can damage the fabric and push the stain deeper.
  • No soaking: Too much liquid can lead to slow drying and possible odor.
  • Avoid strong bleach: It may weaken fibers, discolor fabric, and is often not recommended for mattress ticking.

Stick to cool temperatures, gentle motion, and minimal moisture.

How Do I Dry the Mattress After Cleaning?

After treating an old blood stain:

  • Blot thoroughly with clean, dry towels to pull out moisture.
  • Allow the mattress to air-dry completely before putting bedding back on.
  • If possible, increase ventilation with:
    • Open windows
    • A fan blowing across (not directly into) the damp area
  • Avoid applying direct heat (like a hair dryer set to hot), which can set any remaining stain.

The area should feel completely dry to the touch before you cover it.

What If the Old Blood Stain Doesn’t Come Out Completely?

Old blood stains may fade significantly but sometimes leave a faint shadow, especially on light-colored fabrics. You can:

  • Repeat a gentle method (like the mild soap or enzymatic cleaner) once or twice.
  • Use a mattress protector or pad going forward to prevent future stains from reaching the mattress surface.
  • Focus on cleanliness and odor removal rather than perfection if a slight mark remains.

Trying multiple strong methods in quick succession can be harder on your mattress fabric than living with a small, faint stain.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points to understand about how to remove an old blood stain from a mattress:

  • Start gently: Begin with cold water and mild soap before moving to stronger options.
  • Avoid heat: Hot water and heat sources can permanently set old blood stains.
  • Use targeted cleaners: Enzymatic cleaners and baking soda pastes can help break down and lift dried stains.
  • Don’t oversaturate: Too much liquid in a mattress can create new problems; always blot, never soak.
  • Be patient: Old stains may need several careful treatments and may not disappear completely.
  • Protect for the future: A removable, washable mattress protector makes dealing with any future spills much easier.

With a calm, step-by-step approach, you can usually improve or significantly reduce even an older blood stain while keeping your mattress in good condition.