It happens to everyone — one moment you’re going about your day, and the next, you notice that familiar red stain on your favorite jeans or bedsheet. Accidents during your period are totally normal, but that doesn’t make dealing with them any less frustrating. The good news? Learning how to get period blood out of clothes is easy when you know the right methods.
This guide covers practical, science-backed ways to remove fresh and dried blood stains using simple household ingredients. Whether you’re tackling delicate fabrics or tough materials, these steps will help you restore your clothes to their best condition.
Why Period Blood Stains Are So Stubborn
Blood contains proteins that bind to fabric fibers, especially when exposed to heat. That’s why warm or hot water can make the stain worse — it “cooks” the protein, setting it deeper into the material. The secret to success? Treat the stain as soon as possible with cold water and the right cleaning agents that break down those proteins gently.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get Period Blood Out of Clothes
Here’s a simple breakdown for removing both fresh and dried blood stains.
Step 1: Rinse with Cold Water Immediately
As soon as you notice the stain, run it under cold water. Avoid hot water at all costs — it can set the stain permanently.
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Hold the fabric under cold running water.
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Gently rub the area between your fingers to help loosen the blood.
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If you’re away from home, dab it with a wet tissue or towel until you can rinse properly.
Step 2: Apply a Stain Remover or Soap
If the stain is still visible, it’s time to use a cleaner that targets proteins. You can use:
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Liquid laundry detergent
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Mild soap or dishwashing liquid
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Hydrogen peroxide (for light-colored fabrics)
How to use it:
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Apply the cleaner directly to the stain.
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Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
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Gently scrub with a soft toothbrush or your fingers.
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Rinse again in cold water.
Step 3: Try Natural Remedies for Delicate Fabrics
If you prefer chemical-free options or you’re dealing with sensitive fabrics like silk or lace, these natural solutions can be just as effective:
Salt and Cold Water
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Mix 2 tablespoons of salt with cold water to form a paste.
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Apply it to the stain and let it sit for 15 minutes.
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Rinse thoroughly.
Baking Soda Paste
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Combine 1 part baking soda with 2 parts cold water.
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Apply directly to the stain.
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Let it sit for 30 minutes, then rinse.
White Vinegar
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Pour white vinegar directly onto the stained area.
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Let it sit for 10 minutes.
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Blot with a clean cloth, then rinse with cold water.
Step 4: Wash as Usual
Once the stain has faded or disappeared, wash the garment according to its care label.
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Use cold water and your regular detergent.
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Avoid the dryer until you’re 100% sure the stain is gone — heat can permanently set any remaining residue.
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Air-dry in natural sunlight if possible (sunlight can naturally help fade leftover discoloration).
How to Remove Dried Period Blood Stains
If you didn’t notice the stain right away, don’t panic. Dried blood can still be removed with a bit more effort.
Here’s what to do:
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Soak the garment in cold water for at least 30–60 minutes.
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Add a bit of salt, baking soda, or laundry detergent to the water.
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After soaking, apply hydrogen peroxide or ammonia (for whites only) directly to the stain.
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Gently scrub, rinse, and wash as usual.
How to Get Period Blood Out of Sheets or Underwear
The same rules apply — cold water, gentle scrubbing, and patience. For bedsheets or underwear:
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Soak them overnight in cold water with a bit of enzyme-based detergent.
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For white sheets, use oxygen bleach (not chlorine bleach).
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Always rinse thoroughly before tossing them in the washer.
Products That Help Remove Blood Stains
If you prefer ready-made cleaners, these are effective and widely available:
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OxiClean Max Force (great for tough stains)
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The Laundress Stain Solution (gentle for delicates)
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Hydrogen Peroxide Spray (affordable and effective for whites)
Prevention Tips
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Wear period underwear or use a towel as backup while sleeping.
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Rinse immediately if you notice a spot — time is key.
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Keep a small stain-removal pen in your bag for emergencies.
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Avoid hot water and dryers until you’re sure the stain is gone.
FAQs About Removing Period Blood Stains
1. Can I use hot water to remove blood stains?
No — hot water sets the stain. Always use cold water first.
2. Does hydrogen peroxide bleach clothes?
It can lighten colored fabrics, so use it only on whites or test a hidden spot first.
3. What if the stain doesn’t come out after washing?
Repeat the process before drying. Once heat sets the stain, it’s much harder to remove.
4. Can vinegar remove old blood stains?
Yes, vinegar helps loosen dried blood and works best when combined with a little baking soda.
5. How do I get period stains out of jeans?
Use cold water and dish soap. For older stains, hydrogen peroxide is effective on light denim.
Conclusion
Period stains are completely normal — and completely fixable. With the right steps and a little patience, you can easily master how to get period blood out of clothes using simple household products. Remember the golden rule: cold water first, heat last.
Next time it happens, take a deep breath — your clothes can absolutely be saved.
