Question from Anne
Is there any way to get a blood stain out of cotton sheets w/out harsh chemicals…after the stain has set?
Debra’s Answer
Here’s a whole page of ways to remove set blood stains without harsh chemicals…from people who used them and found they worked: http://ths.gardenweb.com/forums/load/cleaning/msg0822562823894.html.
Readers, please add any additional successes you’ve had.
The most important thing with blood is getting to it immediately. After 24 hours the stain may be set. Don’t use hot water! It will also set the stain. Cover it with hydrogen peroxyde and let it sit while it oxydizes and removes the stain. Soap also works wonders. Again, you need to do it right away and only use cold water!
If you can catch blood on any surface before it sets, hydrogen peroxide straight out of the bottle works like a dream. For small stains, soak the stain with the H2O2. Larger stains will require a few treatments…just set the fabric in the sink, pour on the peroxide. Let sit, then repeat every few minutes.
After heart surgery I discovered that Nutribiotic Sensitive Fragrance-Free Soap-Free Cleanser is GREAT for removing blood stains, including those that have set for a while. I’m not sure why this is. Maybe similar soaps do the same thing. At any rate, I’ve been using it for blood stains since 2008.