How to Get Blood Out of Carpet | Proven Methods that Work

Life happens – cuts, nosebleeds, or pets can leave unwanted blood stains. That doesn’t mean your carpet is finished. With the right know-how and immediate action, you can correct the stain before it becomes a problem. This guide explains how to get blood out of carpet step by step, with safe methods you can try at home, and advice on when to call professional cleaners. 

Why Blood Stains Are Tricky on Carpets

It’s protein rich, so it sticks to carpet fibres more aggressively than a regular food or drink spill. Time isn’t on your side either; the longer it sits, the more difficult it will be to get out. And do not commit this usual mistake: pouring scalding water. It truly “sets” the blood into the material, so the stain will not so readily come out. That’s why using the correct cleaning processes pays.

 Quick Response: The First 5 Minutes Matter

 If you’re dealing with a fresh blood stain, speed is everything. The faster you act, the better your chances of complete removal. Follow these immediate steps:

• Blot, don’t rub. Use a clean white cloth or paper towel to absorb as much liquid as possible. Press gently – rubbing will push the stain deeper.
• Use cold water. Dampen a cloth with cold water and continue blotting. Avoid hot water at all costs.
• Keep the area moist. Don’t let the stain dry out – a damp cloth left on top can prevent set-in staining until you treat it properly.

How to Get Blood Out of Carpet: Proven Step-by-Step Methods

Depending on whether the blood is fresh or dried, different methods will work best. Here are the most reliable techniques used by professionals and homeowners alike.

1. Cold Water and Dish Soap (Best for Fresh Stains)

• • Mix two cold cups of water and one teaspoon of mild dish soap.
  • Soak a clean cloth in the solution and blot the affected area.
  • Keep blotting until the blood comes away.
  • Cold-water rinse and drying by blotting with a new towel.

2. Baking Soda Paste (Safe DIY Solution)   

• • Make a paste of cold water and baking soda.
  • Spread it all over the stain and let it sit for 30 minutes.
  • Wipe with a damp cloth and vacuum the spot when it has dried.

3. Hydrogen Peroxide (Best for Dried or Stubborn Stains)

Test on an inconspicuous part of your carpet first—hydrogen peroxide can bleach certain kinds of fibres.

• • Squeeze in a very small amount of 3% hydrogen peroxide directly on the stain.
  • Allow it to fizz for 5-10 minutes.
  • Blot until the stain has lessened.

4. Enzymatic Cleaners (Best for Large or Older Stains)

  Enzyme-based cleaners break down the proteins in blood and are especially effective on dried stains or when pets are involved. These can be found in most supermarkets or online.

• • Follow the instructions on the package.
  • Let it rest for 10–15 minutes.
  • Wipe with cold water until the stain disappears.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using hot water – it sets the stain.
• Scrubbing instead of blotting – pushes the stain deeper.
• Skipping the rinse step – leftover cleaning agents attract dirt.
• Over-wetting the carpet – this can cause mould or mildew growth.

When to Call a Professional Carpet Cleaner

If the stain has dried for several days, is particularly large, or your carpet is delicate (e.g., wool or silk), a professional cleaning service is often the safest option. Professionals use industrial-grade extraction machines and specialist solutions that penetrate deep into fibres without damaging them.

Professional cleaning is also recommended if you’re renting and worried about deposit deductions. According to The Tenancy Deposit Scheme, stains are one of the most common reasons for deposit disputes in the UK.

Pro Tip: Prevention is Better than Cure

To minimise future issues:

• Keep a carpet spot-cleaning kit handy (cold water spray, cloths, baking soda, mild soap).
• Invest in stain-resistant carpets if you have pets or children.
• Schedule a professional carpet clean once or twice a year.

Conclusion: Don’t Let Blood Stains Ruin Your Carpet

Blood stains may feel intimidating, but with the right approach, they can be removed safely and effectively. Whether you rely on DIY methods or choose a professional carpet cleaner, the key is acting quickly and using the right solutions. Now that you know how to remove blood from carpet, you can handle accidents with confidence — and keep your home looking its best.