How to Remove Blood from Sofa

Blood on the Sofa: What to Do First

A sofa is an investment — and blood stains can look alarming. But with the right approach, most blood stains can be fully removed from sofa fabric. The key is acting quickly and using the right products for your sofa's material.

What You'll Need

• Cold water
• Carbona Liquid Stain Devils
• Carpet & Upholstery Spot Remover
• Hydrogen peroxide (12%)
• Microfiber cloths
• Baking soda

Check Your Sofa's Cleaning Code First

Before applying any liquid, check the tag on your sofa cushions for the cleaning code:

• W — Water-based cleaners safe
• S — Solvent-based cleaners only (no water)
• WS — Both water and solvent safe
• X — Vacuum only, no liquids

Most fabric sofas are W or WS. If your sofa is code S or X, consult a professional cleaner.

Step-by-Step: Fresh Blood on Sofa (W or WS Code)

1. Blot immediately. Use a clean microfiber cloth to absorb as much blood as possible. Press and lift — never rub.
2. Apply cold water sparingly. Dampen a cloth and blot the stain. Use minimal water to avoid soaking the cushion filling.
3. Spray upholstery cleaner. Apply Carpet & Upholstery Spot Remover to the stain. Let sit 5 minutes.
4. Blot from outside in. Work toward the center to prevent the stain from spreading.
5. Rinse by blotting with a lightly damp cloth to remove cleaner residue.
6. Dry thoroughly. Blot with a dry cloth, then allow to air dry completely. Use a fan to speed up drying.

Step-by-Step: Dried Blood on Sofa

1. Scrape off any dried crust gently with a spoon.
2. Apply Carbona Stain Devils. Carbona Liquid Stain Devils breaks down dried blood proteins. Apply and let sit 10–15 minutes.
3. Blot thoroughly with a clean microfiber cloth.
4. Apply hydrogen peroxide for stubborn stains — test on a hidden area first. Let fizz, then blot with microfiber cloth.
5. Rinse and dry as above. Sprinkle baking soda to absorb any remaining moisture and odor, then vacuum once dry.

Tips for Different Sofa Materials

• Fabric/microfiber: Follow steps above; enzyme cleaner works great
• Leather sofa: Use cold water + mild soap only; avoid hydrogen peroxide and enzyme cleaners on leather
• Velvet: Blot very gently; avoid rubbing which damages the pile

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use hydrogen peroxide on a sofa?

Only on light-colored fabric sofas with a W or WS cleaning code. Always test on a hidden area first. Avoid on leather, velvet, or dark-colored sofas.

How do I get dried blood out of a sofa?

Start with Carbona Liquid Stain Devils to break down the dried proteins, then follow with upholstery spot remover if needed. Multiple treatments may be required.

What if the stain won't come out?

For stubborn stains or delicate sofa materials, consider calling a professional upholstery cleaner to avoid damaging the fabric.