How to Remove Blood from a Mattress: Fresh and Dried Stains

Blood stains on a mattress need to be treated immediately and with cold water only — heat sets blood permanently. Whether it's a fresh stain or one that's been there for days, this guide covers the most effective methods to remove blood from a mattress completely.

What You'll Need

• Rocco & Roxie Enzyme Stain & Odor Eliminator — enzyme cleaners break down the proteins in blood, making them highly effective for both fresh and dried blood stains
• Amazon Basics Microfiber Cleaning Cloths (24-pack)
• Nutricost Baking Soda (2 lbs) — for the paste method and deodorizing
• Cold water (never hot)
• Hydrogen peroxide 3% — for stubborn dried stains on light-colored mattresses
• Mild dish soap
• Salt

The Most Important Rule: Cold Water Only

Never use hot or warm water on blood stains. Heat denatures (cooks) the proteins in blood, bonding them permanently to the mattress fibers. Always use cold water for every step of blood stain removal.

Treating Fresh Blood Stains

Method 1: Cold Water + Enzyme Cleaner (Most Effective)

1. Blot up as much blood as possible immediately with a clean cloth — press firmly, don't rub
2. Pour a small amount of cold water over the stain and blot again
3. Apply Rocco & Roxie Enzyme Cleaner generously over the stain
4. Let sit 10–15 minutes — the enzymes break down the blood proteins
5. Blot clean with a cold damp cloth
6. Allow to dry completely

Method 2: Salt + Cold Water (Immediate First Response)

If you don't have enzyme cleaner immediately available:

1. Blot up excess blood
2. Pour cold water over the stain and blot
3. Sprinkle salt generously over the wet stain — salt draws out the blood
4. Let sit 5–10 minutes
5. Rinse with cold water and blot clean
6. Follow up with enzyme cleaner once available

Method 3: Baking Soda Paste

1. Mix baking soda with cold water to form a thick paste
2. Apply to the blood stain and let sit 30 minutes
3. Rinse with cold water and blot clean
4. Repeat if needed

Treating Dried Blood Stains

Dried blood is harder to remove but still treatable with the right approach:

Step 1: Rehydrate the Stain

Apply cold water to the dried stain to rehydrate it. Let sit 5 minutes before treating — this makes the dried blood easier to lift.

Step 2: Apply Enzyme Cleaner

1. Apply Rocco & Roxie Enzyme Cleaner generously
2. Cover with plastic wrap to prevent evaporation
3. Let sit 20–30 minutes
4. Blot clean with a cold damp cloth
5. Repeat 2–3 times for old or heavy stains

Step 3: Hydrogen Peroxide for Stubborn Stains (Light Mattresses Only)

For stubborn dried blood on white or light-colored mattresses, 3% hydrogen peroxide can help:

1. Test on a hidden area first — hydrogen peroxide can lighten some fabrics
2. Apply a small amount directly to the stain
3. It will fizz as it reacts with the blood proteins — this is normal
4. Blot clean with a cold damp cloth once fizzing stops
5. Rinse with cold water and blot dry

Caution: Do not use hydrogen peroxide on dark or colored mattress fabrics — it may bleach the color.

Drying After Treatment

• Blot up as much moisture as possible with dry towels
• Point a fan at the treated area
• Open windows for airflow
• Do not make the bed until completely dry
• Sprinkle baking soda over the area once dry, let sit 30 minutes, then vacuum

Preventing Future Stains

A PlushDeluxe Waterproof Bamboo Mattress Protector prevents blood and other stains from reaching the mattress at all. It's machine washable and far easier to clean than the mattress itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use hot water to remove blood from a mattress?

Never — hot water permanently sets blood stains by denaturing the proteins and bonding them to the fabric. Always use cold water for every step of blood stain removal.

Will hydrogen peroxide damage my mattress?

3% hydrogen peroxide is generally safe for light-colored mattresses but can bleach darker fabrics. Always test on a hidden area first. Use sparingly and rinse thoroughly.

How do I remove a very old blood stain from a mattress?

Very old blood stains may not be fully removable, but enzyme cleaner with an extended dwell time (30–60 minutes under plastic wrap) gives the best results. Multiple treatments may be needed. The stain may lighten significantly even if it doesn't disappear completely.