Fabric

1. If the stain is fresh, soak in cold water or use an eye dropper to apply hydrogen peroxide directly to the stain. For dried stains, brush the stain well to remove the surface deposit, then pretreat or soak in cool water with a laundry product containing enzymes.

2. Launder.

3. If the stain remains, rewash using the type of bleach that's safe for the fabric.

Upholstery

1. Mix one tablespoon of liquid hand dishwashing detergent with two cups of cold water. If the stain has dried, brush it well to remove the surface deposit.

2. Using a clean white cloth, sponge the stain with the detergent solution.

3. Blot until the liquid is absorbed.

4. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 until the stain disappears.

5. Sponge with cold water and blot dry.

Carpet

1. Mix one tablespoon of liquid hand dishwashing detergent with two cups of cold water. If the stain has dried, brush it well to remove the surface deposit.

2. Using a clean white cloth, sponge the stain with the detergent solution.

3. Blot until the liquid is absorbed.

4. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 until the stain disappears or is no longer absorbed into the cloth.

5. If the stain remains, mix one tablespoon of ammonia (Caution: Never mix chlorine bleach and ammonia - the resulting fumes are hazardous) with 1/2 cup of warm water.

6. Sponge the stain with the ammonia solution.

7. Blot until the liquid is absorbed.

8. Sponge with cold water and blot dry.

Disappearing Blood Stains

If you prick your finger while sewing and get blood stains on your project, immediately moisten an unbloodied finger with a bit of your own saliva and apply it to the stain. Watch it disappear!

For more on stain removal, see Good Housekeeping's Stain Rescue


Reprinted with Permission of Hearst Communications, Inc. Originally Published: http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/toolarticles/stains-blood-may07