Got a blood spill on your carpet? Don’t panic! Whether it’s from a minor cut or a clumsy moment, blood stains can be intimidating — but they don’t have to be permanent. With a few everyday items and the right know-how, you can restore your carpet to its former glory.
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through how to clean up a blood spill quickly and effectively using common household products. Let’s dive in and tackle those tough stains with confidence.
Why you need to act fast
Blood stains aren’t just unsightly — they can also pose a hygiene risk if left untreated. The proteins in blood can bond with carpet fibres and cause permanent staining or even unpleasant odours and bacterial growth over time. The quicker you act, the better your chances of removing the stain entirely.
What you’ll need
Before you begin, gather these essentials:
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Cold water
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Mild liquid laundry detergent
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White vinegar (optional)
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Baking soda
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Clean white cloths or paper towels
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Vacuum cleaner
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Rubber gloves (optional)
Step-by-step: How to clean blood from carpet
1. Blot the stain
If the blood is fresh, use a clean, dry cloth or paper towel to blot (not rub!) the area gently. Soak up as much liquid as you can. If the blood has dried, dampen the area lightly with cold water to loosen it.
2. Apply cold water
Cold water helps prevent the proteins in blood from setting into carpet fibres. Avoid warm or hot water, which can make things worse. Blot again to lift more of the stain.
3. Use laundry detergent
Mix a small amount of mild laundry detergent with cold water and dab it onto the stain using a clean cloth. Gently blot and lift the stain — no scrubbing!
4. Try baking soda for stubborn stains
Still seeing traces? Mix baking soda with a bit of water to form a paste and apply it to the stained area. Let it sit for 30–60 minutes, then vacuum the residue once dry.
5. Optional: Use a vinegar solution
For lingering marks, mix one part white vinegar with two parts cold water and lightly spritz the area. Blot again with a clean cloth.
Deodorising and drying the area
Sprinkle a little extra baking soda on the area to neutralise any odours, and leave it to sit for a few hours or overnight. Vacuum it up thoroughly the next day.
To dry the area completely, blot with clean towels and increase air circulation by opening windows or using a fan. Make sure the carpet is completely dry before walking on it.
When to call in the pros
If the stain has soaked deep into the carpet or padding — or you’ve tried everything and it’s still there — it might be time to call a professional carpet cleaner. They have specialist tools and cleaners that can safely restore your flooring.
Quick tips for blood stain success
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Always act quickly — fresh stains are much easier to remove.
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Use cold water only — hot water can set the stain.
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Blot, don’t rub — rubbing spreads the stain and damages fibres.
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Use white cloths to avoid colour transfer.
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Be patient — you may need to repeat steps a few times.
Other stains on your carpet?
Blood isn’t the only tricky stain out there. Whether it’s red wine, pet accidents, or food spills, there are ways to treat them too. Check out our other cleaning guides for tips on keeping your carpet looking its best.
Final thoughts
Blood spills happen, but they don’t have to mean ruined carpets. By acting fast, using simple household supplies, and following this guide, you can clean up the mess effectively and confidently.
So next time you’re faced with an unexpected spill, take a breath, grab your supplies, and follow these steps. Your carpet — and peace of mind — will thank you.
Blog disclaimer
Our blog is intended to share information and ideas around periods, health, and sustainability. While we do our best to keep content accurate and up to date, things can change over time. The information here is not intended as medical advice — for any health-related concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare professional. For more information on our claims, please see our Claims Page, and for the most up-to-date product information, please visit our Product Pages.
