How To Get Blood Out Of Sheets - Simple Step By Step Guide

Written by Nectarsleep Editorial Team

Last updated on Apr 09, 2025

Better Sleep Blog
How To Get Blood Out Of Sheets - Simple Step By Step Guide

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Let’s face it, nothing ruins a perfectly made bed like a blood stain. Whether it’s from a pesky period, a little cut, or a nosebleed, blood stains happen. The good news? There are ways to tackle them, and you don’t have to throw in the towel (or the whole sheet) just yet. Here’s your step-by-step guide to getting those blood stains out of your sheets, so you can get back to snuggling up in a clean bed.

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How to get fresh blood out of sheets

  • Cold Water is Your Best Friend
    The moment the blood hits the sheets, run cold water over the stain. Cold water helps stop the blood from setting into the fabric, so you’re less likely to end up with a stubborn mark. Time is of the essence here—don’t let it sit for too long!

  • Shampoo to the Rescue
    You don’t need fancy stain removers right away. If you catch the stain early, your regular shampoo can help lift the blood right out. Just apply a little directly to the stain, rub it in gently, and rinse with cold water.

  • Ammonia to the Rescue (for Fresh Stains)
    If the stain is a bit more stubborn, try ammonia. Grab some window cleaner if you’ve got it—it’ll do the trick. For larger stains, mix 2 parts ammonia with 1 part cold water, soak the stained sheets for about an hour, then wash them like normal. Just make sure to check your care label first—some fabrics might not react well to ammonia.

  • Wash It Right
    After soaking, throw your sheets in the washing machine with cold water (no hot water yet). Cold water is gentler on your fabric and will help remove any leftover blood. Wash them as usual, and remember: no hot water!

  • Air Dry, Don’t Dry
    It might be tempting to toss your sheets in the dryer, but resist. Air-drying is gentler and will give you a better chance of removing any remaining stains. Plus, the heat from the dryer can set the stain permanently if it’s not completely gone.

Stubborn Blood Stains? Here’s What to Try

  • Enzymatic Cleaner or Oxygenated Bleach
    If the blood’s been there a little too long, you might need some extra muscle. Look for an enzymatic cleaner or oxygenated bleach, both of which work wonders on tough, dried blood stains. Carbona Stain Devils #4 is a great option.

  • Meat Tenderiser? Yep, You Read That Right!
    A bit of an oddball solution, but meat tenderiser can do the trick. Sprinkle it on the dried stain, add a little water to make a paste, and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Then, rinse with cold water and toss your sheets in the laundry. It’s a little unconventional, but it works!

Common Household Items That Can Help

  • White Vinegar
    Got some fresh blood on your sheets? Pour a bit of white vinegar onto the stain, let it soak for 5-10 minutes, and then blot it with a clean cloth. Repeat until the stain starts to disappear, then wash as usual.

  • WD-40
    It’s not just for squeaky hinges! WD-40 can also help lift blood stains. Spray it on the stain, wait a few minutes, and then wash as usual.

  • Cold Salt Water
    A classic trick—soak your sheets in a tub of cold salt water for a few hours. It helps loosen the stain, making it easier to wash away. Just don’t forget to add a little dish soap or detergent to the mix.

  • Cornstarch
    For fresh blood, cornstarch works wonders. Mix it with a little water to make a paste, rub it on the stain, and let it dry in the sun. Once dry, brush off any leftover powder, and repeat if necessary.

  • Cola
    You might not have thought about cola, but it’s surprisingly good at lightening blood stains. Pour a little cola directly on the stain, let it sit for a few hours, and watch as it helps lift the stain.

Don’t forget the mattress protector

If you’ve ever tried cleaning a mattress, you know it’s a whole different ball game. Forget about the relatively simple task of washing sheets—cleaning a mattress can feel like a full-on workout. Stains can be stubborn, and deep-cleaning is a task that can take hours, not to mention the hassle of trying to dry it properly. That’s why investing in a mattress protector is a game-changer. With a protector in place, you can sleep soundly without the worry of stains ruining your mattress. Whether it’s a spilled drink, a little night-time accident, or those unexpected “oops” moments, a mattress protector keeps your mattress safe from it all. You’ll not only extend the life of your mattress but also make your life so much easier. And, the best part? When a mess does happen, it’s as simple as tossing the protector in the wash—no scrubbing, no sweating, just peace of mind.

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