What if cleaning bloodstains the wrong way makes things worse? Imagine you're in a rush to clean a spill, but it just won't go away. Don't worry—quick action and the right steps can fix it.
Experts from Good Housekeeping and Reader’s Digest share three effective methods. For new stains, detergent works well. Hydrogen peroxide cleans faster than vinegar for tough spots. And for really set-in stains, OxiClean's oxygen formula is a game-changer.
Time is crucial. Blood stains carpet fibers quickly, making them hard to remove. But dried stains aren't lost causes. The trick is using enzyme-based solutions to break down stains at a molecular level.
Key Takeaways
- Act within 15 minutes to prevent permanent staining
- Hydrogen peroxide removes stains 2x faster than vinegar
- Cold water preserves carpet dyes during cleanup
- OxiClean works best on set-in discoloration
- Blot—never scrub—to avoid fiber damage
Understanding Blood Stains on Carpets
Blood stains on carpets need special care because of their unique makeup. Unlike spills or dirt, blood has proteins that stick to carpet fibers. This makes the stains hard to remove and gets worse over time. It's important to know why these stains need careful treatment and why timing is key.
Why Blood Stains Are Challenging
Hemoglobin, the protein in blood, bonds strongly with carpet fibers. ProLux’s fiber analysis shows synthetic carpets soak up hemoglobin 40% faster than natural ones. This makes stains harder to get rid of as blood dries.
| Stain Type | Removal Difficulty | Key Challenge |
|---|
| Fresh Blood | Moderate | Preventing protein absorption |
| Dried Blood | High | Breaking hemoglobin bonds |
| Set-In Blood | Severe | Fiber discoloration |
The Importance of Quick Action
Reader’s Digest research shows 78% of blood stains become permanent in 24 hours if not treated. Cold water is best for fresh stains. It stops proteins from sticking together. For dried stains, enzymatic cleaners break down hemoglobin without harming carpet dyes.
Acting quickly has three benefits:
- Prevents stains from going deep into padding
- Reduces chance of bacteria growth
- Saves time on scrubbing later
Essential Tools for Blood Stain Removal
Having the right supplies makes cleaning up stains easy. We'll look at the tools and solutions that work well without costing too much.
Cleaning Solutions You’ll Need
Begin with cold water to stop blood proteins from setting in fibers. For new stains, mix 1 tbsp of dish soap like Dawn Ultra ($13 for 24 oz) with 2 cups of cold water. Hydrogen peroxide ($6 for 32 oz) is good for light carpets but test it first to avoid color changes.
For older stains, use enzymatic cleaners like OxiClean ($8) to break down proteins. Ammonia solutions (1 tbsp ammonia + ½ cup water) work on tough spots but don't mix with bleach. If you're not sure where to begin, check out this step-by-step guide.
Recommended Equipment
Microfiber cloths are better than paper towels because they soak up more without tearing. Use a spray bottle to apply solutions evenly – don't soak the carpet. A stiff-bristle brush helps remove dried residue, and a wet/dry vacuum dries the carpet faster after cleaning.
| Product | Cost | Best For |
|---|
| Dawn Ultra Dish Soap | $13 | Fresh stains |
| Hydrogen Peroxide | $6 | Light carpets |
| OxiClean Versatile | $8 | Dried blood |
White cloths are a must – colored fabrics might dye your carpet. Keep these tools in a cleaning kit so you're ready. Remember, acting fast with the right supplies is the best way to clean blood stains before they set in.
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Fresh Blood Stains
Don’t panic—fresh blood spills on carpets are manageable if you act swiftly. This guide breaks down professional-approved bloodstain removal methods into simple, actionable steps. Timing matters: stains treated within 30 minutes have a 90% higher success rate according to cleaning experts.
Blotting the Stain
Start by gently pressing a clean microfiber cloth onto the stain. Work from the outer edges toward the center to prevent spreading. Reader’s Digest recommends this technique because it traps particles instead of grinding them deeper.
Jeff Cross, a certified cleaning technician, notes: “Blotting lifts 70% of fresh stains versus 30% if rubbed.” Repeat until the cloth picks up minimal blood. Avoid scrubbing—this frays carpet fibers and worsens discoloration.
| Action | Effectiveness | Risk of Spreading |
|---|
| Blotting | 70% stain removal | Low |
| Rubbing | 30% stain removal | High |
Applying Cleaning Solution
Mix 1 tablespoon of clear dish soap with 2 cups of cold water—a ratio Good Housekeeping confirms works for most carpets. Dip a sponge into the solution and dab it onto the stain. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to break down proteins.
Blot again with a dry towel until moisture disappears. For stubborn spots, apply a second round. Cold water is crucial here—hot water sets protein-based stains like blood permanently.
This method helps you get rid of blood stains without harsh chemicals. If discoloration remains, proceed to enzymatic cleaners (covered in Section 5) for deeper treatment.
Dealing with Dried Blood Stains
Dried blood stains need patience and special methods. Unlike fresh blood, they stick to carpet fibers tightly. Luckily, enzymatic cleaners can remove 95% of stubborn stains when used right.
Rehydrating the Stain
Begin by softening dried blood with cold water. ProLux suggests using a damp white cloth. Gently press it on the stain for 5–10 minutes. Don't pour water directly to avoid damaging the carpet.
Using Enzymatic Cleaners
Enzyme-based cleaners, like those from Reader’s Digest, break down blood proteins. Apply the cleaner to the moistened area and wait 15 minutes. Blot, don't scrub, to remove the dissolved particles. For tough stains, repeat after the carpet dries.
| Method | Effectiveness | Best For |
|---|
| Enzymatic Cleaners | 95% stain removal | Old or set-in stains |
| Cold Water & Dish Soap | 60% stain removal | Recent dried stains |
| Hydrogen Peroxide Mix | 75% stain removal | Light-colored carpets |
Always test cleaners on hidden carpet areas first. For wool or delicate fibers, get professional help to avoid damage. Remember, rushing or using hot water can make stains permanent.
Natural Remedies for Blood Stain Removal
Think twice before buying expensive cleaners. Simple items like baking soda and salt can remove stains well and are cheap. Let's look at two easy ways to use these items to clean your carpet.
Baking Soda Paste
Mix 2 parts baking soda with 1 part cold water to make a paste. This mix absorbs stains well without soaking the carpet. Apply it to the stain, let it dry for 2-3 hours, then vacuum.
This method works on both new and old stains. Baking soda breaks down blood proteins and gets rid of smells. For really stubborn stains, leave the paste on overnight before vacuuming.
Salt and Cold Water
Reader’s Digest suggests using salt for just $0.10 per use. Sprinkle salt on fresh blood stains and dab with cold water. Salt absorbs liquid fast, making it great for quick clean-ups.
Keep using salt and water until the stain disappears. Don't use warm water, as it can make stains worse. This method is best for quick clean-ups.
| Method | Cost per Use | Best For | Active Time |
|---|
| Baking Soda Paste | $0.15 | Dried stains | 5 minutes |
| Salt Treatment | $0.10 | Fresh spills | 2 minutes |
These methods show you don't need harsh chemicals to clean carpets. While OxiClean costs $15, these natural options work just as well for a fraction of the price.
Commercial Products for Blood Stains
When DIY methods don’t work, commercial cleaners are a good choice. They have special formulas and easy-to-use designs. This makes them great for tough stains. Let’s look at some top picks and what makes them stand out.
Best Stain Removers Available
OxiClean Versatile Stain Remover ($15) is a top pick. It uses oxygen to remove stains, and Good Housekeeping says it works well. You mix it with cold water to tackle fresh or dried stains.
Zep Commercial Carpet Stain Remover ($22) is strong like a pro. It removes 95% of stains on synthetic carpets, according to users.
Enzyme-based cleaners like Rocco & Roxie Professional Strength are great for pet stains. Linda Cobb, a cleaning expert, says enzymes break down blood proteins. This stops bad smells. These cleaners cost $18-$25 and work best on organic stains.
Pros and Cons of Each Product
| Product | Pros | Cons |
|---|
| OxiClean | Budget-friendly, multi-surface use | Less effective on wool carpets |
| Zep Commercial | High stain removal rate | Strong chemical scent |
| Rocco & Roxie | Pet-safe formula | Longer treatment time |
For soft fabrics, try Biokleen Bac-Out. It's gentle but might need more use. Always test cleaners in secret spots first. Some can change carpet colors.
Tips for Preventing Future Blood Stains
Preventing blood stains starts with quick action and smart preparation. Knowing how to get blood out of your carpet is key. But avoiding stains saves time and keeps carpets looking fresh. Let’s explore ways to minimize risks and protect your floors long-term.
Immediate Care After an Incident
Speed is crucial when accidents happen. Blot spills immediately with a clean cloth—rubbing spreads the stain. Use cold water to flush the area, as heat sets proteins in blood. Reader’s Digest says this quick approach reduces stain penetration by up to 50%.
Keep a stain removal kit nearby: microfiber towels, enzyme cleaner, and cold water. Address minor injuries away from carpets when possible. For deeper cleaning steps, refer to our fresh blood stain removal guide.
Using Protective Treatments
Stain-resistant sprays like ProLux’s Scotchgard ($12) create invisible barriers. These treatments repel liquids, giving you 10-15 minutes to clean spills before absorption. Studies show they lower stain risks by 80%.
Apply protectants every 6-12 months, focusing on high-traffic areas. Test products on small carpet sections first. Combine this with regular vacuuming to maintain fabric integrity and prevent particle buildup.
Other Carpet Cleaning Considerations
When you face tough blood stains or delicate carpets, you might think about cleaning it yourself or getting help from pros. Let's look at both choices to see what's best for you.
Professional Cleaning Services
Services like ProLux offer blood stain removal for $150 to $300. They use hot water extraction to clean deep stains without harming the carpet. This method is great for:
- Antique or high-value carpets
- Large or recurring stains
- Delicate materials like wool or silk
DIY Methods vs. Professional Help
DIY cleaning can cost about $20 and works for fresh stains. But, Reader’s Digest says 73% of small spills are fixed at home. Here's a comparison:
| Factor | DIY Cleaning | Professional Service |
|---|
| Cost | $10–$30 | $150–$300 |
| Time Investment | 1–3 hours | Same-day service |
| Effectiveness | Good for surface stains | Deep cleaning guaranteed |
Go for DIY if it's a small, fresh stain and you like doing things yourself. Choose pros for big areas, old rugs, or stains that won't budge. Many people mix both, using carpet cleaning hacks for upkeep and getting pros for yearly cleanings.
Post-Cleaning Care for Carpets
Keeping your carpet fresh and stain-free is key. Removing blood stains is just the start. How you care for it afterward affects its look and life.
Drying Techniques
Drying carpets fast is important. Reader’s Digest suggests using fans to speed up drying. Fans at opposite ends of the room help a lot.
It takes 12–24 hours for carpets to dry fully. Walk only on dry parts to avoid dirt and damage. Use white towels under furniture legs for extra moisture absorption.
Maintaining Carpet Appearance
Use pH-neutral cleaners to keep colors and textures bright. Vacuum weekly to remove dirt. Rotate furniture every 3–6 months to prevent dents.
Deal with spills right away with cold water and gentle blotting. Don't rub. Use a carpet rake ($15–$20) for regular upkeep. It makes your carpet last longer.
The Science Behind Stain Removal
Why do blood stains stick so hard to carpets? It's because of their makeup. To get rid of them, you must know how blood reacts with fibers. Also, why some cleaning methods are better than others.
Understanding Blood Composition
Blood has hemoglobin, a protein with lots of iron. This is why it's red. When blood dries, the iron in it bonds strongly with carpet fibers. This is why old stains are hard to remove.
ProLux research found that enzyme-based cleaners break these bonds. They work like dissolving glue.
How Different Cleaners Work
Not all cleaners are the same. Hydrogen peroxide, as Reader’s Digest says, works like a mini fire extinguisher. It bubbles up and lifts stains through oxidation.
Enzymatic cleaners, on the other hand, use biological agents to break down proteins. Cold water helps prevent iron in blood from bonding too much. But hot water does the opposite.
Here’s a quick comparison of popular bloodstain removal methods:
| Method | Action | Best For |
|---|
| Hydrogen Peroxide | Oxidizes stain particles | Fresh stains on light carpets |
| Enzymatic Cleaners | Digests proteins | Dried or set-in stains |
| Cold Water + Detergent | Prevents iron bonding | Immediate first response |
Choosing the right method depends on the stain's age and your carpet. Light-colored rugs might do well with peroxide. But enzymatic cleaners work for all. Always test cleaners in hidden spots first.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even small errors during carpet cleaning can turn a fixable stain into a permanent problem. Knowing what not to do is just as important as mastering the right techniques. Let’s explore two critical missteps that could sabotage your efforts to get rid of blood stains effectively.
Rubbing Instead of Blotting
Scrubbing a fresh bloodstain might feel intuitive, but Reader’s Digest tests show this approach spreads stains twice as fast. Rubbing pushes blood deeper into carpet fibers, increasing the risk of permanent discoloration by 40%. Instead, use a white cloth to gently blot the area. Press straight down and lift—repeating until no more liquid transfers.
Using Hot Water
ProLux Cleaning Solutions warns that hot water sets protein-based stains like blood in 90% of cases. Heat causes blood’s proteins to bind tightly to carpet threads, creating stubborn discoloration. Always use cold water for initial cleaning. For older stains, lukewarm water can work after rehydrating the area with enzymatic cleaners.
Quick tip: Test your water temperature on a hidden carpet section first. Some synthetic fibers react poorly to sudden temperature changes, even with cold water.
Effective Strategies for Other Stains
Blood stains need special care, but spills like grease and wine have their own fixes. Knowing how to handle these can save your carpet. Here, we'll look at two common problems and how to solve them without spending a lot.
Grease Stains: The Absorption Game
Grease is hard to get rid of, but cornstarch can help. Sprinkle cornstarch on fresh grease to dry it out. Wait 30 minutes, then vacuum up the oil.
If the stain is old, use a butter knife to gently remove the hard grease first.
Wine Stains: Act Fast, Stay Cool
Red wine spills need quick action. Use salt and club soda, a method approved by Reader’s Digest that costs less than $2. Blot the spill right away, then sprinkle salt on it to soak up moisture.
Wait 10 minutes, then pour club soda on it and blot again. This mix works better than many expensive cleaners.
| Stain Type | Method | Cost |
|---|
| Grease | Cornstarch absorption | $1.50 (per use) |
| Wine | Salt + club soda | $2.00 (per use) |
Remember, speed and substance are key. Grease needs something to trap its oil, while wine is best treated with liquid removal. Both methods show you can clean your carpet without breaking the bank. Just use smart science and act fast.
Conclusion: Mastering Blood Stain Removal
Removing blood from carpets might seem hard, but it's doable with the right steps. Studies show 87% of stains can be gone with the right methods. This shows how important preparation and knowledge are.
Summary of Best Practices
Speed is key. Blot fresh stains with cold water and a clean cloth right away. For dried blood, use enzyme-based solutions to break down proteins.
Always test cleaners in hidden spots first. And never use heat, as it can set stains forever.
Key steps include:
- Quick action to prevent oxidation
- Cold water for initial rinsing
- Enzymatic cleaners for organic breakdown
Encouragement for DIY Enthusiasts
You don't need to be a pro to clean stains. Many dried blood stains can be removed with DIY methods like salt or hydrogen peroxide. Remember, patience and repetition are better than hard scrubbing.
Household items like baking soda or dish soap can also work well. If a stain stays, try cleaning again instead of using harsh chemicals. Gentle, consistent care is best for your carpet.
Resources for Further Reading
Learning more about carpet cleaning tips can boost your confidence in tackling stains. You can find books or video guides that offer practical advice. These resources help you master stain removal techniques.
Top Books and Articles for Home Cleaners
For those who prefer detailed strategies, these publications are great:
| Resource | Price | Key Features | Best For |
|---|
| The Queen of Clean’s Guide to Stain Removal | $18 | Step-by-step solutions for 100+ stains | Comprehensive household cleaning |
| Reader’s Digest: Practical Problem Solver | $22 | DIY methods using common household items | Budget-friendly approaches |
| Good Housekeeping Cleaning Handbook | $25 | Lab-tested techniques | Time-sensitive stain emergencies |
Video Guides for Visual Learners
YouTube channels like ProLux Cleaning Solutions and Good Housekeeping offer free tutorials. They show how to get blood out of carpet. Their videos cover:
- Side-by-side comparisons of cleaning products
- Real-time stain removal demonstrations
- Q&A sessions with professional cleaners
ProLux’s 15-minute guide to protein-based stains is very helpful. It shows how enzymatic cleaners break down blood without harming fibers.
Customer Testimonials and Experiences
Real-life stories show how effective these methods are for tackling tough carpet stains. Homeowners and professionals alike share proven strategies that work for both new accidents and stubborn old marks.
Success Stories from DIYers
One Reddit user shared how they used hydrogen peroxide to remove blood stains from carpet that had lingered for over a decade. After soaking the area with cold water and applying a 3% solution, the discoloration faded completely within 24 hours. Reader’s Digest featured a similar story where baking soda paste lifted dried stains from a white rug without damaging fibers.
Professional Cleaners’ Insights
ProLux Carpet Care’s lead technician Richard Turner confirms most stains respond well to prompt treatment. “Nine out of ten blood marks disappear when treated early with enzymatic cleaners,” he states. Before-and-after photos from their clients reveal how oxygen-based products revive even heavily soiled carpets. Turner advises testing cleaners on hidden spots first – a tip echoed in Good Housekeeping’s stain removal guides.
These experiences prove there’s rarely a lost cause. Whether you choose DIY methods or hire experts, the best way to clean blood stains combines quick action with the right tools. For persistent problems, companies like Chem-Dry and Zerorez offer free evaluations to assess salvage options.
FAQ
Q: Why are blood stains harder to remove than other stains?
A: Blood has hemoglobin that sticks to carpet fibers. Synthetic carpets hold 40% more hemoglobin than natural ones. Enzyme cleaners like Zep Commercial () work 2x faster than DIY methods.
Q: How quickly should I treat a blood stain?
A: Treat it within 24 hours. After that, stains get 90% harder to remove, says Reader’s Digest. For fresh stains, blot with a microfiber cloth right away. Jeff Cross says blotting lifts 70% of fresh blood, while scrubbing only lifts 30%.
Q: What’s the most cost-effective blood removal method?
A: Salt and cold water is the cheapest option at Q: Why are blood stains harder to remove than other stains?A: Blood has hemoglobin that sticks to carpet fibers. Synthetic carpets hold 40% more hemoglobin than natural ones. Enzyme cleaners like Zep Commercial () work 2x faster than DIY methods.Q: How quickly should I treat a blood stain?A: Treat it within 24 hours. After that, stains get 90% harder to remove, says Reader’s Digest. For fresh stains, blot with a microfiber cloth right away. Jeff Cross says blotting lifts 70% of fresh blood, while scrubbing only lifts 30%.Q: What’s the most cost-effective blood removal method?A: Salt and cold water is the cheapest option at
FAQ
Q: Why are blood stains harder to remove than other stains?
A: Blood has hemoglobin that sticks to carpet fibers. Synthetic carpets hold 40% more hemoglobin than natural ones. Enzyme cleaners like Zep Commercial () work 2x faster than DIY methods.
Q: How quickly should I treat a blood stain?
A: Treat it within 24 hours. After that, stains get 90% harder to remove, says Reader’s Digest. For fresh stains, blot with a microfiber cloth right away. Jeff Cross says blotting lifts 70% of fresh blood, while scrubbing only lifts 30%.
Q: What’s the most cost-effective blood removal method?
A: Salt and cold water is the cheapest option at
FAQ
Q: Why are blood stains harder to remove than other stains?
A: Blood has hemoglobin that sticks to carpet fibers. Synthetic carpets hold 40% more hemoglobin than natural ones. Enzyme cleaners like Zep Commercial ($22) work 2x faster than DIY methods.
Q: How quickly should I treat a blood stain?
A: Treat it within 24 hours. After that, stains get 90% harder to remove, says Reader’s Digest. For fresh stains, blot with a microfiber cloth right away. Jeff Cross says blotting lifts 70% of fresh blood, while scrubbing only lifts 30%.
Q: What’s the most cost-effective blood removal method?
A: Salt and cold water is the cheapest option at $0.10 per treatment. For dried stains, hydrogen peroxide ($6) removes 85% of hemoglobin stains, Good Housekeeping tests show. Dawn Ultra detergent ($13) is best for fresh spills.
Q: Can I use hot water to remove blood stains?
A: No, hot water sets 90% of protein-based stains, ProLux research shows. Always use cold water to rehydrate dried blood. For set-in stains, enzyme cleaners like Biokleen Bac-Out ($12) digest proteins 3x faster than vinegar solutions.
Q: Are professional cleaners worth the cost?
A: Professional services ($200 avg) using hot water extraction remove 95% of old stains. DIY methods only remove 60%. OxiClean ($15) achieves 90% effectiveness on fresh stains. Linda Cobb suggests professionals for stains older than 6 months.
Q: How do I prevent blood stains from setting?
A: Scotchgard Stain Shield ($12) reduces absorption by 80%. For active bleeding, layer salt over fresh blood – it absorbs liquids 3x faster than baking soda, Consumer Reports says. Always keep enzyme spray ($8–$25) on hand for quick treatment.
Q: What’s better for carpets – hydrogen peroxide or vinegar?
A: Hydrogen peroxide works 2x faster, breaking down blood’s iron content in 15 minutes. Vinegar takes 30+ minutes. Test first – peroxide may lighten dark carpets. For wool, use pH-neutral cleaners like Bissell ProOxy ($10) to prevent fiber damage.
Q: Can I remove decade-old blood stains?
A: Yes – one DIYer removed 10-year-old stains using hydrogen peroxide soaks. ProLux’s Richard Turner confirms 90% of old stains respond to enzyme treatments. For severe cases, mix OxiClean ($15) with cold water and let sit overnight before blotting.
.10 per treatment. For dried stains, hydrogen peroxide () removes 85% of hemoglobin stains, Good Housekeeping tests show. Dawn Ultra detergent () is best for fresh spills.Q: Can I use hot water to remove blood stains?A: No, hot water sets 90% of protein-based stains, ProLux research shows. Always use cold water to rehydrate dried blood. For set-in stains, enzyme cleaners like Biokleen Bac-Out () digest proteins 3x faster than vinegar solutions.Q: Are professional cleaners worth the cost?A: Professional services (0 avg) using hot water extraction remove 95% of old stains. DIY methods only remove 60%. OxiClean () achieves 90% effectiveness on fresh stains. Linda Cobb suggests professionals for stains older than 6 months.Q: How do I prevent blood stains from setting?A: Scotchgard Stain Shield () reduces absorption by 80%. For active bleeding, layer salt over fresh blood – it absorbs liquids 3x faster than baking soda, Consumer Reports says. Always keep enzyme spray (–) on hand for quick treatment.Q: What’s better for carpets – hydrogen peroxide or vinegar?A: Hydrogen peroxide works 2x faster, breaking down blood’s iron content in 15 minutes. Vinegar takes 30+ minutes. Test first – peroxide may lighten dark carpets. For wool, use pH-neutral cleaners like Bissell ProOxy () to prevent fiber damage.Q: Can I remove decade-old blood stains?A: Yes – one DIYer removed 10-year-old stains using hydrogen peroxide soaks. ProLux’s Richard Turner confirms 90% of old stains respond to enzyme treatments. For severe cases, mix OxiClean () with cold water and let sit overnight before blotting.
.10 per treatment. For dried stains, hydrogen peroxide () removes 85% of hemoglobin stains, Good Housekeeping tests show. Dawn Ultra detergent () is best for fresh spills.
Q: Can I use hot water to remove blood stains?
A: No, hot water sets 90% of protein-based stains, ProLux research shows. Always use cold water to rehydrate dried blood. For set-in stains, enzyme cleaners like Biokleen Bac-Out () digest proteins 3x faster than vinegar solutions.
Q: Are professional cleaners worth the cost?
A: Professional services (0 avg) using hot water extraction remove 95% of old stains. DIY methods only remove 60%. OxiClean () achieves 90% effectiveness on fresh stains. Linda Cobb suggests professionals for stains older than 6 months.
Q: How do I prevent blood stains from setting?
A: Scotchgard Stain Shield () reduces absorption by 80%. For active bleeding, layer salt over fresh blood – it absorbs liquids 3x faster than baking soda, Consumer Reports says. Always keep enzyme spray (–) on hand for quick treatment.
Q: What’s better for carpets – hydrogen peroxide or vinegar?
A: Hydrogen peroxide works 2x faster, breaking down blood’s iron content in 15 minutes. Vinegar takes 30+ minutes. Test first – peroxide may lighten dark carpets. For wool, use pH-neutral cleaners like Bissell ProOxy () to prevent fiber damage.
Q: Can I remove decade-old blood stains?
A: Yes – one DIYer removed 10-year-old stains using hydrogen peroxide soaks. ProLux’s Richard Turner confirms 90% of old stains respond to enzyme treatments. For severe cases, mix OxiClean () with cold water and let sit overnight before blotting.
