Effective Methods for Removing Set Blood Stains from Fabric

Tips for Removing Set Blood Stains

Dear Home-Ec 101,

I’m reaching out for advice on how to tackle stubborn blood stains, particularly those that have been set in by the dryer. I truly appreciate all the fantastic information you share; even as an experienced homemaker, I’m always eager to learn new tips, shortcuts, cleaning hacks, and delicious recipes! However, this particular stain has me quite puzzled. My husband, while doing some yard work, accidentally cut himself and wiped the blood on the back of his favorite tan cargo pants. Unfortunately, I only discovered the stain after I had washed and dried the pants. I’ve tried soaking the stain in OxiClean and re-washing multiple times, but the stain persists. I want to preserve the pants, so I’ve avoided using bleach. Is there another solution I could try to effectively remove the blood stain?

Thank you in advance for any suggestions you might have!

Still Seeing Red in Raleigh

Here’s some somewhat promising news: it is sometimes possible to remove dried or set blood stains from various fabrics using ammonia. While it doesn’t guarantee success every time, considering ammonia costs less than a quarter an ounce, it’s certainly worth a try to salvage those beloved pants.

How to Remove Dried or Set Blood Stains with Ammonia

Here’s what you’ll need:

• a small bowl
• water
• a toothbrush (one that you won’t use for your teeth again)
• ammonia
• an old towel
• a workspace in a well-ventilated area
• your favorite enzyme-based detergent (most commercial brands include this; homemade versions typically do not)

Follow these steps for the best results:

1. In your small bowl, mix equal parts water and ammonia. This means a 50:50 ratio – feel free to estimate, as precision isn’t crucial.
2. When dealing with a stain like this, it’s best to work from the inside of the fabric. Turn the material inside out and place the old towel inside the pant leg to catch any excess liquid.
3. Dip your toothbrush into the ammonia solution. Using the toothbrush, gently apply the solution to the center of the blood stain, working your way outward. Remember to dab rather than scrub; you want to help the solution penetrate the fibers without damaging them.
4. Next, turn the pants right side out. Check if the blood stain is still visible. If it is, return to the inside and repeat the application from this side.
5. After applying the solution, turn the pants back inside out and rinse the stain with cool water to flush out the ammonia mixture.

At this point, the stain should either be significantly reduced or completely gone. If it’s still there, you can repeat the process. Keep in mind that set blood stains can be particularly stubborn and may be permanent. As a last resort, you might consider applying a stain remover directly to both sides of the stain before washing the pants again. This can potentially expose new areas of the stain that haven’t been treated yet, hopefully leading to better results.

If, after washing, the blood stain persists, take a deep breath and remind yourself that these pants can now serve as his designated yard work and handyman attire. They will likely endure worse stains in the future, and that’s perfectly okay!

For any further questions or concerns, feel free to reach out at helpme@home-ec101.com.