how to clean blood out of carpet

Just when you thought cutting your finger couldn't get worse, you spy a spot of blood settling on your carpet. Similar to red wine and coffee stains, blood — wet or dry — can be tough to remove. That's why Carolyn Forte, director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab, shares how to get blood out of carpet, depending on the carpet cleaners you have on hand.

The next time an accident inevitably happens, take stock of your cleaning supplies and choose from one of these tried-and-tested methods. All of them are equally as effective, even if you're tackling a dried blood stain.

How to Get Blood Out of Carpet

Like most other stains, it's best to clean blood as quickly as you can stomach it. But if you happen to wait around (the wound is still too fresh, perhaps), then not all hope is lost: You can still follow the same cleaning method — just with a little more elbow grease.

Method 1: Detergent Solution

If the stain has dried, gently go over it with a soft brush to break up the deposit.
Mix one tablespoon of scent-free liquid hand dishwashing detergent with two cups of cold water. Using a clean white cloth, sponge the stain with the detergent solution.
Blot until the liquid is absorbed. Repeat until the stain disappears, then sponge the spot with cold water and blot dry.
If the spot still remains, mix one tablespoon of ammonia (FIY, never mix chlorine bleach and ammonia as the resulting fumes are hazardous) with 1/2 cup of warm water. Sponge the stain with the solution and blot until the liquid is absorbed. Sponge with cold water and blot dry.

Method 2: Hydrogen Peroxide

Rather than relying on trusty pantry cleaners like vinegar and baking soda, head to the medicine cabinet when you're in a pinch. Then follow this step-by-step:

Test the hydrogen peroxide in a hidden spot first to make sure it doesn't change the color of the carpet.
If you don't notice any color changes, dip a cotton swab in hydrogen peroxide and apply it carefully to the stain.
Rinse with wet cloth and air dry.

Method 3: OxiClean

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If you prefer using speciality cleaners rather than making your own solution from scratch, then OxiClean is your friend. To use, dissolve OxiClean Versatile Stain Remover in warm water, according to package instructions. Saturate the stain and let it sit for up to five minutes before blotting with a dry cloth. And in case you're dealing with any other stains, you can do the same with red wine, coffee, and pet messes.

Stock up on These Cleaners in Case of a Blood Stain

Ultra Dishwashing Liquid

Dawn amazon.com

Clear Ammonia

JAMES AUSTIN CO amazon.com

Versatile Stain Remover

OxiClean amazon.com

$17.80

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Amanda Garrity Associate Lifestyle Editor As the Associate Lifestyle Editor for GoodHousekeeping.com, Amanda oversees gift guides and covers home, holidays, food, and other lifestyle news.

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