Getting blood out of a mattress can seem like an impossible task, but with the right techniques and products, you can successfully remove blood stains and restore your mattress. Blood contains proteins that bind strongly to fabric fibers, which is why blood stains can be so difficult to eliminate. However, don’t give up hope! With some elbow grease and stain-fighting ingredients, you can bid goodbye to those pesky blood stains.

Assess the Stain

The first step is to thoroughly examine the blood stain and mattress type. Consider the following:

Age of the stain – Fresh stains are easier to remove than old, set-in stains. Act quickly for best results.
Size of the stain – Large stains may require extra work. Be prepared to spot treat and reapply products.
Mattress materials – Blood can soak into fabric, foam, fibers etc. This affects removal techniques. More porous materials make stain removal challenging.
Color of mattress – Light colored mattresses show stains clearly. Red blood on white is a high contrast. Darker mattresses hide stains. Assess stain visibility.
Mattress location – Check both sides of the mattress. Blood may seep through. Treat all affected areas.
Type of blood stain – Bloody nose drips, body fluids, or crime scene spatter each have different cleaning needs.

Knowing stain characteristics will inform the removal strategy and set expectations. Old, dried blood on a white cotton futon is very different from a fresh nosebleed on a purple memory foam bed.

Prepare the Area

Once you’ve assessed the stain, prep the mattress for treatment:

Strip the bed and allow full access to the stained area. Remove sheets, mattress protectors or toppers.
Blot fresh stains with a cloth to absorb excess liquid. Don’t scrub or you may spread the stain.
If the stain has dried, gently scrape off any crusted blood with a dull knife. This helps lifting agents work.
Vacuum up any blood particles or debris around the stain.
Lay an absorbent cloth or towel beneath the stain. This keeps liquids from seeping internally.
Test stain removal agents on inconspicuous areas first to check for discoloration.

Proper prep work helps prevent set-in stains and secondary damage. With the area prepped, you can now begin stain removal techniques.

Stain Removal Techniques and Products

Several effective techniques can tackle blood stains on mattresses. Try these cleaning solutions from gentlest to most heavy-duty:

1. Cold Water

For fresh stains, start with plain cold water:

Dampen a clean white cloth with cold water. Dab the stain, pressing down lightly. The water helps dilute the blood and lift it from fibers.
As the cloth becomes saturated, rinse it in cold water and continue dabbing. Avoid scrubbing motions which can further embed the proteins.
Cold water works well on fresh stains. For larger or older stains, use it as a precursor to other methods.

2. Hydrogen Peroxide

The oxidizing powers in hydrogen peroxide help break blood bonds:

Apply a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution directly to the blood stain.
Let it sit for 2-5 minutes to penetrate and begin working.
Blot lifted blood with a clean white cloth, reapplying peroxide as needed.
Rinse with cold water when finished and allow to fully dry.

Be careful using hydrogen peroxide on colors, as it can lighten some fabric dyes. But it’s effective for light colored or white mattress covers.

3. Baking Soda

Baking soda or sodium bicarbonate is a natural deodorizer and cleaning powder:

Make a paste by sprinkling baking soda on the stain and adding just enough cold water to moisten.
Use a stiff brush or gloved hands to gently rub the paste into the blood stain.
Let it sit for up to an hour so the baking soda can work.
Scrape off the dried paste with a dull knife, then rinse clean.

For mattresses, baking soda helps deodorize while lifting blood away from fabric.

4. Dish Soap

Dishwashing liquid contains degreasers that can target blood proteins:

Dampen the stain with cold water then squirt a small amount of original blue Dawn dish soap directly on it.
Use a soft-bristled scrub brush or sponge to work the soap in.
Rinse thoroughly with cold water to remove all soap residue.

Use a gentle touch so as not to damage the mattress fibers. The degreasing action helps dissolve blood bonds.

5. Enzyme Cleaner

Enzyme-based cleaners specially attack organic stains like blood and bodily fluids:

Look for enzymatic cleaners like OxiClean, Bac-Out, or Biz at grocery and hardware stores.
Carefully follow product label instructions based on surface type.
Let the enzymatic cleaner sit and work before rinsing. Repeat as needed for heavy stains.

The enzymes in these products break down blood proteins for effective cleaning.

6. Ammonia

Ammonia is an effective but strong chemical cleaner:

Use a 10-30% ammonia-to-water solution. Higher concentrations may damage fabric.
Wear gloves and work in a ventilated space. Ammonia has strong fumes.
Lightly sponge or blot ammonia solution onto the blood stain.
After 1-2 minutes, blot lift with clean cloths until stain fades. Rinse thoroughly.

While powerful on organic stains, ammonia may damage mattress materials and irritate eyes. Use caution.

7. Rubbing Alcohol

The high alcohol content in rubbing alcohol can dissolve dried blood stains:

Dampen a clean white cloth with 70% isopropyl rubbing alcohol. Avoid colored/scented varieties.
Firmly blot the alcohol onto the blood stain.
Check frequently and re-dampen the cloth as needed to keep stain saturated.
Rinse with cold water when finished.

Rubbing alcohol works well on set-in stains but may damage delicate fabrics. Use a light touch.

8. Hydrogen Peroxide and Ammonia

For extra power on stubborn blood stains:

Mix equal parts 3% hydrogen peroxide and household ammonia.
Carefully sponge the solution onto the stain and let sit 1-2 minutes.
Blot lifts with clean white cloths. Rinse thoroughly after treatment.

Thisdynamic duo combines stain-fighting elements of both cleaners. But the mixture can damage fabrics if overused.

9. Meat Tenderizer

Powdered meat tenderizer contains enzymes that break up blood proteins:

Make a paste with unflavored meat tenderizer and cold water.
Gently spread the paste onto the blood stain.
Allow to dry fully then scrape off. Rinse away remnants.
For light colored fabrics, mix in a little baking soda for extra lift.

The meat tenderizer paste helps gently lift embedded blood particles without harsh chemicals.

10. Bleach (for white fabrics only)

On sturdy, white mattress covers, chlorine bleach can remove blood stains:

Dilute 1 part bleach to 9 parts cold water. Higher concentrations may damage fabric.
Lightly sponge diluted bleach onto the stain. Allow to sit 1-3 minutes.
Blot lift with clean white cloths, reapplying solution as needed.
Rinse thoroughly and wash normally after treatment.

Never use bleach on colors. For whites, it can eliminate blood stains through oxidation. Use minimal amounts with extreme care.

Mattress Type Considerations

Mattress materials also impact your blood stain removal tactics:

Memory foam – Blot lifting only. Avoid excessive liquids which the foam will absorb.
Latex – enzymatic cleaners work well without damaging the latex.
Innerspring – Lift away visible top stain then treat seeped-through areas.
Pillowtop – Carefully lift stained section and treat mattress underneath.
Air mattress – Use light stain removal solutions to avoid punctures.
Futon – Check for stains on both sides. Treat each surface fully.
Cotton – Soak up fresh stains quickly. Use blotting and light scrubbing.
Polyester – Chemical solvents like ammonia can effectively target blood proteins.

Tailor your cleaning method to the mattress makeup. More delicate materials need gentler care.

Mattress Location Tips

Blood stains can seep to unexpected areas:

Check mattress piping edges for migrated stains.
Inspect crevices, buttons and seams for hidden blood.
If stain soaked through, treat both sides of the mattress.
On box springs, examine wood frames and fabric undersides too.
Watch for drips on adjacent surfaces like headboards or bed frames.
Disinfect and deodorize the surrounding area for complete cleanup.

Eliminate all traces of blood residue. Migrated stains can wick back up over time if left untreated.

Eliminate Blood Odors

Even once stains are removed, lingering blood odors may remain. Try these tips to freshen your mattress:

Allow mattress to dry completely after cleaning. Remaining moisture can breed bacteria and odors.
Sprinkling baking soda over the area helps absorb moisture and deodorize. Let sit for a few hours, then vacuum up.
Steam cleaning sanitize mattresses and removes odors embedded deep in the materials.
Upholstery cleaners and deodorizers specifically target mattress odors like blood and bodily fluids.
For severe odor issues, consider replacing affected mattress parts or covers. Blood can permeate deeply.

Removing stain discolorations is just the beginning. Ensure no blood odor remnants linger.

When to Discard a Mattress

Despite your best efforts, some blood-stained mattresses require replacement:

Consider discarding if:

Blood has soaked deeply into padding or interior.
Odors persist even after thorough cleaning and deodorizing.
Stain site contains mutated blood or biohazard risk.
Mattress shows signs of mold or mildew from the blood stain.
Heavy staining is unsightly or causes extreme discomfort.

Safe to keep if:

No health risks or mildew issues exist.
Stain is slight and surface level only.
Discoloration is not visually offensive.
Mattress is structurally sound otherwise.
All odors and residue have been fully eliminated.

While most blood stains can be managed, repeated or extreme cases may require replacement, especially if disease transmission or mold is a concern.

Preventing Future Blood Stains

Once you’ve conquered blood stains, take steps to protect your mattress in the future:

Use a mattress protector or pad to shield surfaces.
Clean up blood spills right away to prevent setting in.
Rotate your mattress to spread out wear and stains.
Replace old or unhygienic mattresses and bedding regularly. Maintain sanitary sleeping conditions.
Address medical issues that lead to blood release like nosebleeds.

With some diligence, you can keep your mattress free of blood and other worrisome stains. Protect your investment and your health.

Tackling Specific Blood Stain Situations

Blood stains arise from diverse causes. Each situation presents unique challenges. Here’s how to combat common blood stain scenarios:

Nosebleeds

Nosebleeds are a frequent blood stain culprit:

Have the bleeder lay down immediately, placing tissue against their nostrils to absorb drips.
Once stopped, rinse nasal passages gently to remove clotted blood. This prevents future stains from rehydrating.
For small nasal drips, treat mattress quickly with cold water or enzyme spray. Larger amounts may require more intensive cleaning.
Check for migrated stains along edges and on adjacent pillows. Blood can travel.
Use gentle blotting and minimal liquids to prevent stain spread through inner mattress layers.

Nosebleed cleanup requires attention both inside the nose and on the stained sleeping surfaces.

Menstrual Blood

Menstrual blood presents recurring stain risks:

Place leak-proof padding made for periods underneath sleepers during menstruation. Replace as needed.
If leakage occurs, immediately rinse out as much blood from fabric as possible using cold water in a spray bottle, then dab dry.
Apply hydrogen peroxide or enzymatic spray. Use a soft brush to gently work in and lift stains.
For stubborn remnants, make a hydrogen peroxide and ammonia solution. Soak and blot up.
Use mattress protectors to shield surfaces. Wash bedding promptly in enzyme detergent after incidents.

Prompt attention prevents embarrassment and permanent damage. Manage menstrual blood diligence and care.

Vomit with Blood

Vomit with blood requires rapid response:

First vacuum up any solid chunks to avoid stains.
Pour baking soda liberally over stain and let sit 5-10 minutes to absorb moisture and deodorize.
Scrape away baking soda then sponge on an enzymatic cleaner or hydrogen peroxide.
For blood remnants, make an ammonia/peroxide solution. Soak then rinse.
Use white vinegar to remove vomit odors, then sprinkle on baking soda. Once dry, vacuum up.
Steam clean the area and consider using an anti-microbial mattress spray.

Vomit can spread germs rapidly. Disinfecting and deodorizing is critical along with stain removal.

Crime Scene Blood

For traumatic blood stains:

Contact emergency services immediately in the event of an active crime scene.
Once allowed access, assess the stain extent and mattress condition. Crime scene blood may require forensic cleaning specialists for safe removal.
Discard mattress if blood has saturated extensively or potential biohazards exist. Special protocols apply for removing and disposing of biohazard materials.
For surface level stains, use appropriate cleaners and treat with extra disinfecting precautions. An antimicrobial mattress spray adds protection.
Seek professional counseling to process the trauma associated with crime scene blood exposure in your home.

Don’t attempt removal of significant crime scene blood without input from law enforcement first. Special measures apply.

Tackling Specific Mattress & Fabric Types

Certain mattress materials and fabrics pose blood stain challenges:

Memory Foam Mattress

Memory foam soaks up liquid rapidly:

Act instantly to soak up surface blood before it penetrates foam.
Avoid using too much liquid for stain removal which foam will absorb.
Blotting and light scrubbing lifts surface stains. Repeat until no blood transfers to cloth.
For deeper stains, use an enzymatic spray and extract with cold water using a bissell carpet cleaner.
Spot treat and thoroughly dry foam padding before replacing mattress cover.

Memory foam requires delicate yet thorough stain removal to avoid permanent damage.

Pillow Top Mattress

Pillow tops have crevices where blood can hide:

Check piping edges and seams for absorbed blood remnants.
If stain is isolated, lift away pillow top layer carefully and treat mattress below before replacing cover.
For stubborn stains, remove entire pillow top and treat soaking in enzymatic cleaner bath then rinse and air dry before replacing.

Use caution cleaning pillow tops. Scrubbing can harm the lofty surface and delicate stitching. Lift away and soak for best results.

White Sheets

For blood on white sheets:

Rinse backside immediately with cold water to prevent settling.
Make a paste of meat tenderizer and cool water. Spread over stain, allow to dry, then rinse.
If remnants persist, dilute 1 tbsp bleach in 1 quart water. Soak and rinse.
Wash in hot water with an enzymatic detergent. Avoid using fabric softener which may set stains.
Air dry in sunlight which naturally bleaches and deodorizes.

Treat white sheets promptly and gently to avoid permanent marks.

Colored Fabrics

Blood on colored mattress covers is tricky:

Work hydrogen peroxide in carefully to avoid lightening dyes.
Opt for enzymatic cleaners over chemicals like ammonia or alcohol which may discolor.
Make a paste with baking soda and meat tenderizer. Gently rub in and lift.
Rinse thoroughly with cold water. Wash with an enzyme detergent.
Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals like ammonia! Test cleaners first.

Special care prevents blood from permanently staining colored mattress covers and sheets.

How to Dispose of a Blood-Stained Mattress

If blood has penetrated a mattress deeply, disposal may be needed:

Contact your local waste management company for mattress disposal services. Many offer special pickups for oversized items.
If concerned about biohazard risks, ask waste company about their bloodborne pathogen procedures and certifications. Reputable companies are trained for biological waste.
Another option is to rent a dumpster and transport the mattress yourself to a waste management facility. Call ahead to arrange drop off policies.
Before disposal, wrap the soiled mattress in plastic sheeting to contain any leaks or seepage.
By law, mattresses sent to landfills must be completely encased to prevent toxic materials from escaping into the environment.
For extreme bio

How to Get Blood Out of a Mattress