How To Remove Bedbug Blood Stain From Washable Fabrics
January 23, 2023
Are you dealing with bedbug infestation in your home? And you are struggling to remove the red blood stains caused by bedbugs on your bedding? Don't worry, we've got the solution for removing those unsightly stains from your blankets and sheets. Keep reading to learn how to remove bedbug blood stain from blankets and sheets.
COLOR
Reddish-brown
APPEARANCE
A reddish-brown stain with a slightly runny consistency when fresh.
WATER TEMP
Hot (120° to 140°F)
RATIONALE FOR WATER TEMP
Hot water helps to break down the blood and make it easier to remove.
The Science Behind Bedbug Blood Stains
Bed bug blood stains clothes because it contains pigments that can stick to fabric fibers. Bed bugs feed on blood, so when they bite humans or animals, they inject saliva that contains anticoagulants and anesthetics to keep the blood flowing and the host from feeling the bite. When bedbugs are squashed or killed, they release their blood which is mostly composed of digested blood from the host, this blood contains hemoglobin which is the protein that gives blood its red color. When the bedbug blood comes into contact with fabric, it can transfer some of these pigments, leaving behind a discoloration or stain. To prevent bed bug blood from staining clothes, it is important to be aware of the presence of bed bugs and take steps to eliminate them, and also be careful when handling dead bed bugs to avoid getting their blood on your clothes.
What You'll Need To Get Rid Of Bedbug Blood Stains
- Hydrogen Peroxide
- Dish soap
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Laundry detergent
- Enzyme-based cleaner
Step By Step Process To Remove Bedbug Blood Stains
- First, remove as much of the blood stain as possible by gently scraping it off with a spoon or butter knife.
- Next, mix hydrogen peroxide with water to create a solution. Apply the solution to the stain and gently rub it in with a cloth or brush.
- Mix a small amount of dish soap with warm water to create a sudsy solution. Apply the solution to the stain and gently rub it in with a cloth or brush.
- For any remaining stains, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the stain and let it sit for a few minutes before washing the garment with laundry detergent.
- If the stain is still present, make a paste using baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
- After the baking soda paste has had time to sit, use a damp cloth to gently rub the paste off of the fabric. Rinse the fabric with warm water to remove any remaining baking soda.
- If the stain is still not completely removed, use an enzyme-based cleaner specifically designed for removing blood stains and follow the instructions on the product.
Please note that it is important to act fast on blood stains as they can set in quickly and become harder to remove. Some fabrics may not be suitable for using hydrogen peroxide, so it's important to test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric first. Also, some products may be harsh for certain fabrics, so always check the label and do a patch test before using them.
In Brief
Bed bug blood stains are caused by pigments that stick to fabric fibers. To remove the stain, first scrape off excess blood, then use a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water, and dish soap and warm water. For remaining stains, mix white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and use laundry detergent. If stain persists, make a paste with baking soda and water and use an enzyme-based cleaner specifically designed for blood stains. Always test products on a small area of the fabric first and act fast as blood stains can set quickly and become harder to remove.
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