by Katrina Murphy

Created on: February 10, 2009

Blood spills often send us into two parts of panic. First, we must attend to the source of blood. Afterward, we wring our hands wondering how to remove the stain. Blood usually proves difficult to remove, but methods are available for every surface on which it spills. Depending on the surface, try the following remedies for removal of bloodstains.

Precaution

If the blood belongs to anyone but you, take universal precautions to protect yourself from blood-borne pathogens. Wear latex gloves and a mask; dispose of cleaning materials in a sealed plastic bag.

Always test inconspicuous areas for colorfastness when using any cleaners or solutions for stain removal.

Carpet

If you spill blood on carpet, chance almost guarantees the carpet is lightly colored. The first step for removal is immediate action. Methods abound for cleaning blood from carpet, so grab as many of the following items that you can:

*Paper towels or white absorbent cloths

*Salt

*Hydrogen Peroxide

*Cool water

*Dawn or Joy dish detergent

*Ammonia

*Vinegar

*Baking Soda

You will not need all of these ingredients, hopefully, but all methods require some combination of the above.

Step One: Blot excess blood from the area with an absorbent towel. Work from the outside of the stain inward to avoid spreading. Do not rub.

Step Two: Sprinkle salt over the blood. Mix a 50/50 solution of Hydrogen Peroxide and cool water. Apply this solution over top of the salt.

-OR-

Mix a small amount of dishwashing liquid (Dawn) into a cup of cool water. Dip a sponge or towel into the solution and dab at the stain until it lifts.

-OR-

Mix 1 part Ammonia to 4 parts cool water. Dampen your cloth and blot at the stain until removal.

-OR-

Make a paste of Baking Soda and cool water. Gently work the paste into the carpet and rinse with cool water.

Step Three: Once you add any solution to the spill, continuously blot with clean absorbent towels. Frequently switch to a clean towel to avoid rubbing any stain into the carpet. If discoloration remains, apply a mixture of white distilled vinegar and water to the spot. Blot the liquid until dry.

Removal of liquid is vital to spot removal. Soak as much solution from the carpet as possible. When you are satisfied with stain removal, cover the spot in clean towels and top them with heavy items, such as books, to absorb all moisture. Vacuum when dry.

Clothing and Fabrics

Removal of blood from clothing varies by the type and color of the fabric. The first step to removal is immediate action with blotting and submersion

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