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| How to remove a bloodstain – How to Clean Easy |
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| Five Proven Methods of Blood Stain Removal
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| Home Remedies for this age-old problem
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| The removal of bloodstains from clothing and other fabrics doesn’t need to be difficult or expensive. In most instances, the materials needed are on hand in a typical household setting to perform this task. Anyone can tend to this chore with a little know-how.
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| The main problem encountered with bloodstains is that they stick to the fibers of a material and must be successfully broken down into very small particles before washing the fabric by conventional means. The compound in blood that causes the rust-colored stain is iron present in a protein called hemoglobin. When blood becomes denatured (dries up), this hemoglobin binds to the fibers of the material.
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| Many conventional detergents are not equipped for the removal of protein-based stains, but rather those of fats, oils and starches. Even solutions that tout the use of enzymes in their composition are often not geared towards protein breakdown. Enzymes of the lipase class dissolve lipids (fats and oils) while those classified as amylase dissolve polysaccharides (starches). Hemoglobin, which is the bulk of the bloodstain, is a protein. A protease class of enzyme must be used to degrade and dissolve protein-based stains; releasing the iron ions for removal.
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| As stains get older they become harder to remove. The sooner removal is begun after the stain occurs, the better the results. Heating (hot washing or drying) also serves to fixate the protein to the fiber as well. Bloodstains should be treated before a garment goes into a washing machine as it may be set in the washing process. By observing these few principles and using one of the removal methods discussed below, you should have complete success in the removal of bloodstains.
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| The following methods of bloodstain removal are tried and true measures that will work. These methods are easy to perform, some better and quicker than others, but all can be achieved using things most of us have on-hand in our homes.
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- Spit - If the bloodstain is only a drop or two, human saliva reacts much the same hydrogen peroxide. Saliva contains protease enzymes that dissolve blood and allow it to be “blotted” away.
- Hydrogen Peroxide - Hydrogen peroxide is an effective method for bloodstain removal. It works best on fresh bloodstains, but will also work on older stains if the item has not been hot washed or dried in a clothing dryer. Fresh bloodstains are often removed with one to two applications of hydrogen peroxide, while older stains may take more. Pour a small amount of hydrogen peroxide on the bloodstain. The hydrogen peroxide comes into contact with the blood and starts bubbling. Let it set for a few seconds and work. Remove the white foam produced by ‘patting’ the area of the stain with an old towel. Pat dry and repeat if necessary. This method can also be used on furniture or mattresses as well clothing. It is best to try it on a hidden place to test if the hydrogen peroxide will affect the color of the fabric before using in a conspicuous place.
- Glycerin-detergent Solution – There may be times when you have no hydrogen peroxide handy. You may use this method in lieu of it. Lubricate the site of the stain with the solution (15% glycerin-15% liquid detergent – 70% water). Tamp the bloodstain lightly with a soft brush, letting it drop gently under its own weight. Continue this until you see the bloodstain breaking up. Flush the stain vigorously with cold water, rinsing through the material if possible. If the stain persists, add an ammonia solution (1 part ammonia to 4 parts water) to it as well as the other mixture. Tamp the area again. For very difficult stains, use a 40% hydrogen peroxide solution and tamp again. Flush thoroughly again. If the stain is still present, begin the process over and continue until you see no further improvement or there is danger of fabric damage.
- Shampoo - Shampoo plus scrubbing will work on bloodstains, in a pinch. Regular shampoos (without conditioners) work best. Shampoo works best on fresh bloodstains, but works well on older stains with more scrubbing. Pour a small amount of shampoo on the stain. Use a scrub brush so that you don't destroy the fabric with the scrubbing action. Use an old towel to ‘pat’ off as much of the stain as possible. Pat dry and repeat as necessary.
- Detergent Pre-soak - Soak clothing in cool/cold water (hot water sets the stains). You can add some detergent to the water if you wish, but it also works if you don't. Make a paste of detergent and place on the stain. Let it sit a while and rinse out. Lightly scrub, as needed, until stain is removed and laundry in cold water. Hang to dry. Do not machine dry until sure the bloodstain is gone.
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| Bloodstain removal does not have to be performed by professionals in most cases. It can, in fact, be accomplished by anyone using good judgment and items found around almost every household. A quick response along with the knowledge of what to do, more times than not, will get the job done.
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| Thank you to Mike for this “How to Remove a Bloodstain” article. |
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