Blood stains can happen from time to time, but there’s no need to worry. While they might look stubborn, they’re usually easier to remove than you might think, especially if you act quickly.
With a little care and the right approach, you can lift stains effectively while keeping your bedding soft, fresh and beautifully looked after.
How to remove fresh blood stains
Fresh stains are the easiest to treat. The sooner you act, the better your chances of removing the stain completely.
Start by rinsing the affected area with cold water. This helps lift the blood from the fibres before it has a chance to set.
Then:
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Gently blot (don’t rub) the stain as this can cause the stain to spread
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Apply a small amount of mild detergent
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Leave to soak for 15 - 30 minutes
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Rinse again with cold water
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Repeat again if needed to lift the stain before washing as usual
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Air dry sheets as putting in the tumble dryer can set the stain if it is not thoroughly removed and cause the stain to set
A little patience goes a long way.
How to get dried blood out of bedding
Dried blood can take a little more effort, but it can still be removed with the right method. Start by soaking the fabric in cold water for at least 30 minutes to loosen the stain.
Then:
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Apply a small amount of detergent or stain remover
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Gently work it into the fabric
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Leave to soak for a few hours or overnight to lift the stain
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Rinse thoroughly before washing your sheets like you’d typically do on your usual cycle
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Allow sheets to air dry to prevent heat from the tumble dryer setting any remaining stains
Different fabrics benefit from slightly different care, so here’s how to treat common bedding materials.
How to get blood out of cotton sheets
Cotton is more durable and responds well to stain treatment.
Follow the steps above, then wash your sheets according to the care label. For best results, treat the stain before putting your sheets in the washing machine.
Explore our range of cotton bedding for soft, breathable sheets that are easy to care for.
How to get blood out of linen sheets
Linen requires a slightly gentler approach, but it is still very manageable.
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Stick to cold water when treating the stain
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Avoid harsh scrubbing which can damage fibres
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Use a mild detergent
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Allow the fabric to air dry where possible
Linen naturally softens overtime, and with the right care, it remains both beautiful and practical.
Explore our range of french linen bedding for naturally breathable comfort.
A few things to avoid when removing blood stain
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Don’t use hot water until the stain is fully removed as this can cause the stain to set in the fabric
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Don’t rub the stain vigorously as this can spread the stain and cause it to set deeper into the fibres
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Don’t use chlorine bleach (especially on coloured or natural linen)
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Don’t dry the bedding in the tumble dryer until the stain has completely gone as heat from the dryer can set the stain
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Don’t delay treatment, the longer the stain sits in the fabric the more difficult it will be to remove it
Accidents happen, but with a little care, your bedding can stay fresh, clean and comfortable for longer.
Choosing high-quality materials and caring for them properly makes all the difference, helping you enjoy a better night's sleep night after night.
Browse our full range of bedding to find beautifully made pieces, designed for everyday living.
