What happens when you try to wash your jeans only to see them turn dark red or black? If you want to save your clothes from damage, then you should follow these simple steps.
You may have heard that washing your clothes too often can cause fabric damage. This is true, but there are some things you can do to minimize the risk. Washing your clothes regularly helps prevent stains from setting into fabrics.
There are two main reasons why you might notice blood on your clothing. The first reason is because of cuts or scrapes. These types of injuries usually bleed profusely and require immediate medical attention.
The other reason is due to heavy bleeding. When you have a cut or scrape, the wound itself is the source of the blood. In contrast, heavy bleeding is caused by internal injury.
Accidents happen, and blood stains on jeans can be quite unsightly. It’s important to tackle the stain as soon as possible to increase the chances of successful removal. Here are several methods you can use to get blood out of your jeans effectively.
What Causes Blood Stains on Jeans?
There are a variety of reasons why you might end up with blood stains on your jeans. Some common causes include:
- Cuts or scrapes: If you have a cut or scrape on your leg and it bleeds, the blood can get on your jeans.
- Menstruation: If you are a woman who menstruates, blood from your menstrual cycle can get on your jeans.
- Nosebleeds: If you have a nosebleed, the blood can get on your jeans if you try to wipe it away or if it drips down your face.
- Injuries: If you are involved in an accident or injured in some other way, you may end up with blood on your jeans.
- Bleeding disorders: If you have a bleeding disorder, you may be more prone to getting blood stains on your jeans.
- Other causes: There are many other possible causes of blood stains on jeans, including accidents in the kitchen or while handling raw meat, and accidental blood draws at the doctor’s office.
Blot the Stain
To begin the stain removal process, follow these steps:
- Place a washcloth inside your jeans directly under the stain.
- With a clean cloth soaked in cold water, blot the stained area gently. Avoid rubbing the stain, as it may cause it to spread.
- Repeat the blotting process until the cloth is no longer picking up blood.
- If necessary, use a new cloth for continued blotting.
Soak the Jeans in Cold Water
After blotting the stain, it’s time to soak the jeans in cold water. This step helps further loosen the stain and prepare it for the next cleaning methods. Follow these guidelines:
- Fill a basin or sink with cold water.
- Submerge the jeans completely and let them soak for at least 30 minutes.
Scrub the Stain
If the blood stain persists after soaking, you can try scrubbing it with a brush. Here’s how:
- Take a clean brush, preferably with soft bristles, and gently scrub the stain.
- If the blood is still visible, add a few drops of dishwashing soap to the stain and scrub again.
Apply Baking Soda Paste
Baking soda is a versatile household ingredient that can help lift blood stains effectively. Follow these steps:
- Create a paste by mixing two parts baking soda with one part water.
- Apply the baking soda paste directly to the stain and let it sit for up to 30 minutes.
- After the designated time, carefully blot the area with a damp cloth or paper towel.
- Wash the jeans as you normally would.
Use Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is another effective solution for blood stain removal. Follow these instructions:
- Sponge the stain with hydrogen peroxide, ensuring it comes into contact with the affected area.
- Alternatively, you can rub bar soap into the stain or apply a laundry pre-treater or enzyme-containing liquid laundry detergent.
- Machine wash the garment in warm water with a fabric-safe bleach.
- If the stain persists, repeat the above steps.
- Remember not to put the garment in the dryer until the stain is completely gone.
Use Unseasoned Meat Tenderizer
Unseasoned meat tenderizer powder can also help break down blood stains. Here’s what you need to do:
- Sprinkle the stain with unseasoned meat tenderizer powder.
- Add enough water to create a paste-like consistency.
- Let the paste sit on the stain for approximately 30 minutes.
- Rinse the area with cold water and wash the jeans as usual.
Avoid Hot Water and Rubbing
To maximize your chances of successfully removing blood stains from jeans, keep the following tips in mind:
- Avoid using warm or hot water at any point during the stain removal process, as it can cause the blood to set.
- Refrain from rubbing the stain vigorously, as this can cause it to spread.
Conclusion
Blood stains on jeans can be challenging to remove, but with the right techniques, you can restore your favorite denim pants to their former glory. Remember to act quickly, blot the stain, soak the jeans in cold water, and utilize additional methods such as scrubbing, applying baking soda paste, using hydrogen peroxide, or trying unseasoned meat tenderizer. By following these steps and avoiding hot water and rubbing, you can effectively eliminate blood stains from your jeans.
FAQs
Q1. Can I use warm or hot water to remove blood stains from jeans? No, it is best to avoid warm or hot water as it can cause the blood stain to set. Stick to cold water throughout the stain removal process.
Q2. Can I use bleach to remove blood stains from jeans? Yes, you can use a fabric-safe bleach when washing the jeans. However, ensure you follow the garment’s care instructions and use bleach only if it is safe for the fabric.
Q3. Are these methods suitable for colored jeans? Yes, the methods mentioned in this article can be used on colored jeans. However, it is always a good idea to test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the jeans first to ensure it doesn’t cause any discoloration.
Q4. How long should I soak the jeans in cold water? It is recommended to soak the jeans in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This helps loosen the blood stain and makes it easier to remove.
Q5. What if the blood stain doesn’t come out completely? If the blood stain persists after attempting these methods, it is advisable to consult a professional cleaner who specializes in stain removal. They may have additional techniques or tools to tackle stubborn stains.
