Did you know that around 80% of women will experience a period leak at some point? It happens! But those red stains can be stressful, especially if you’re worried about ruining your favorite clothes.
The good news is, there are plenty of ways to tackle period stains – naturally and effectively – without resorting to harsh chemicals. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know on how to get period blood out of clothes, from fresh stains to those that have already dried.
Why is Removing Period Stains Quickly Important?
Acting fast when period blood stains your clothes is crucial for a few reasons. Blood contains proteins that can bind to fabric fibers, making the stain harder to remove as time passes.
If a stain sets in, it may require more aggressive cleaning techniques that could potentially damage delicate fabrics. Removing stains promptly will not only save your clothes from permanent damage but also help you avoid the frustration of dealing with stubborn dried stains later on.
Immediate Steps to Take When a Stain Occurs
Don’t panic! When a period stain happens, take quick action to prevent the stain from setting. The longer blood remains on fabric, the harder it becomes to remove. Here’s how to get blood out of clothes.
Act Quickly
The first rule of stain removal is to act fast. As soon as you notice the stain, take steps to treat it before it has a chance to dry. Fresh blood is much easier to remove than dried blood, so don’t delay!
Rinse with Cold Water
Use cold water when dealing with blood stains. As soon as the stain occurs, rinse the area with cold water. Hold the fabric under running cold water and gently rub the fabric together to help loosen the stain. This will flush out a lot of the blood before it has time to set. Avoid using hot water as well, as it can cause the blood to set into the fabric, making it much harder to remove.
Avoid Using Heat
Heat can cause blood proteins to coagulate, making the stain more permanent. Never use hot water, a dryer, or even a hairdryer to dry out a blood-stained fabric. Stick to cold water and air-dry the clothes until the stain is fully removed.
Home Remedies to Remove Period Blood Stains
Home remedies can be surprisingly effective for removing blood stains. These methods use everyday household items that you likely already have, and they can be as effective as commercial stain removers.
Salt Water Solution
Salt is a natural blood stain remover due to its ability to break down proteins. Mix a tablespoon of salt with two cups of cold water to create a saltwater solution. Soak the stained area in the solution for about 30 minutes. Afterward, rinse the fabric with cold water and wash it as usual.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide works as a mild bleach, making it great for period blood stains on white clothes. Pour a small amount of hydrogen peroxide directly onto the stain and let it sit for a few minutes. You’ll see it fizz as it lifts the stain. Then, rinse the fabric with cold water. Be careful with darker fabrics, as hydrogen peroxide can cause discoloration.
Baking Soda Paste
Baking soda can also be an effective and gentle cleaner. Mix two parts baking soda with one part water to create a paste. Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Gently scrub the paste into the fabric, then rinse with cold water.
Lemon Juice and Sunlight
How to get period blood out of white clothes? Lemon juice is a natural bleaching agent that works particularly well for white clothes. Apply lemon juice directly to the stain, then place the clothing in direct sunlight for a few hours. The combination of lemon juice and sunlight helps break down the bloodstain. Rinse with cold water after.
White Vinegar
White vinegar is a great stain remover, especially for fresh blood stains. Pour white vinegar directly onto the stain and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. Blot the stain with a clean cloth, then rinse with cold water.
Using Commercial Stain Removers
Sometimes, home remedies aren’t enough, especially for older or larger stains. In these cases, commercial stain removers can be the best option.
Enzyme-Based Stain Removers
Enzyme-based stain removers are excellent for breaking down proteins in blood. Look for products specifically designed for protein-based stains, and follow the instructions on the packaging. These are usually safe for most fabrics but always double-check for delicate materials.
Oxygen Bleach or OxiClean
Oxygen bleach, such as OxiClean, is safe for most fabrics and can effectively remove period blood stains. Mix the powder with cold water to create a soaking solution, then soak the stained garment for several hours. Oxygen bleach is especially effective for white clothes and is less harsh than chlorine bleach.
Laundry Detergents for Delicate Fabrics
If you’re dealing with delicate fabrics like silk or lace, choose a laundry detergent specifically designed for such materials. These detergents are usually gentle but still effective at removing blood stains. Hand wash the garment with cold water, using the detergent as directed.
Stain Removal Sprays and Pens
Stain removal sprays and pens are convenient for treating stains on the go. Products like Tide-to-Go pens can be applied directly to the stain as soon as it happens. These are portable and effective for fresh stains, making them a great tool to keep in your bag.
How to Wash Clothes Stained with Period Blood
Once the stain has been treated with home remedies or commercial products, wash the garment as soon as possible. Use cold water and a laundry detergent suitable for the fabric type. Avoid using a dryer until you’re sure the stain is completely gone, as heat can set any remaining stain into the fabric.
When to Take Stained Clothes to a Professional Laundry Service
If you’ve tried all the above methods and the stain still won’t budge, it may be time to take the garment to a professional laundry service. Professionals have access to specialized cleaning techniques and commercial-grade stain removers that are much stronger than what’s available for home use. If your clothes are made of delicate fabrics or are particularly valuable, taking them to a professional service right away can save the garment from permanent damage.
How to Remove Dried Period Blood Stains
Dried blood stains are notoriously difficult to remove but not impossible. The key is to rehydrate the stain before attempting to clean it.
Start by soaking the stained area in cold water for several hours or overnight. Once the fabric has soaked, use one of the methods mentioned earlier (like hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, or enzyme-based cleaners) to treat the stain. For particularly stubborn stains, multiple treatments may be necessary.
Preventing Future Period Blood Stains
Prevention is always better than cure. Consider using period underwear or menstrual cups to reduce the risk of leaks. You can also place a towel or cloth on your bed at night to protect your sheets. Additionally, carrying a stain removal pen in your bag can help you tackle any accidents that occur when you’re away from home.
What to Avoid When Removing Period Blood Stains
Certain mistakes can make blood stains harder to remove. Here’s what to avoid:
- Using Hot Water: Hot water can cause blood to set into the fabric, making the stain permanent.
- Scrubbing Aggressively: While it’s tempting to scrub the stain out, this can damage the fabric and make the stain worse.
- Using Bleach on Delicate Fabrics: Chlorine bleach can ruin delicate fabrics and is often unnecessary for removing blood stains.
Effective Stain Removal for Your Clothes: Trust the Experts
Knowing how to get dried period blood out of clothes can save your favorite outfits and make dealing with stains less stressful. There are definitely plenty of effective methods to try from quick home remedies like saltwater solutions to commercial blood stain removers.
For those times when DIY solutions aren’t enough, you can always trust professional laundry services to do the job, like SpinXpress. They provide expert stain removal services and offer a variety of laundry solutions tailored to your needs. Their team also knows exactly how to remove blood stains, ensuring your clothes come back fresh and spotless.
SpinXpress in San Antonio specializes in everything from self-service laundry to advanced stain removal treatments. Next time you’re struggling with a stubborn period blood stain, let the professionals at SpinXpress take care of it for you.
