Remove blood stains with cold water and hydrogen peroxide

Immediately rinse the blood stain under cold running water, working the fabric gently with your fingers. For stubborn residue, apply a small amount of 3% hydrogen peroxide directly to the stain, let it fizz for a few minutes, then rinse and wash.

Why It Works

Blood contains hemoglobin, a protein that coagulates with heat — which is why cold water is essential. Hydrogen peroxide is an oxidizer that breaks the iron bonds in hemoglobin, causing the red color to disappear. The fizzing reaction indicates active breakdown of the blood compounds.

Tips

• Never use hot water on blood — heat permanently bonds the protein to fabric
• Test hydrogen peroxide on an inconspicuous area first, as it can lighten colored fabrics
• For dried blood, soak the stain in cold salt water for 30 minutes before applying peroxide
• Your own saliva contains enzymes that break down your own blood — effective for small fresh stains