Cleaning up blood is not just a matter of appearance — it’s a matter of health and safety. Blood can carry pathogens such as HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. If not handled properly, surfaces may remain contaminated and dangerous.
Whether it's due to an accident, Crime Scene, trauma, or medical emergency, Blood Cleanup must be approached with extreme caution and the proper Biohazard protocols.
How to Clean Up Blood from Different Surfaces
Different surfaces require different approaches when it comes to removing blood stains and ensuring complete disinfection. Below is a detailed breakdown for each type of surface:
Cleaning Blood from Carpet and Rugs
Carpets are porous and absorbent, making blood removal challenging.
Steps:
- Blot the stain gently with cold water and a clean cloth. Never scrub.
- Mix cold water with a small amount of salt or dish detergent.
- Dab the solution onto the stained area.
- Use a wet vacuum or towels to soak up excess moisture.
- Apply an enzyme cleaner for deeper disinfection.
Important: Carpets may still harbor bacteria. For trauma or large spills, professional services are essential to fully sanitize the fibers and padding underneath.
Cleaning Blood from Wood Surfaces
Wood can absorb blood quickly if not sealed.
Steps:
- Wipe up fresh blood with a damp paper towel.
- Use a hydrogen peroxide solution (3%) to treat the stained area.
- Allow to sit for 5-10 minutes, then wipe clean.
- Repeat as needed and disinfect the area with an EPA-registered disinfectant.
If the blood has penetrated untreated wood, it may require sanding or professional remediation.
Cleaning Blood from Tile and Grout
Tile is non-porous, but grout is highly absorbent.
Steps:
- Wipe up fresh blood with disposable paper towels.
- Use a bleach solution (1:10 ratio) for tile surfaces.
- For grout, apply hydrogen peroxide or a steam cleaner to penetrate pores.
- Scrub gently with a grout brush.
Lingering bacteria in grout may require professional Biohazard treatment.
Cleaning Blood from Clothing and Fabrics
Clothes and linens often retain dried blood stains if not treated quickly.
Steps:
- Rinse in cold water immediately (never hot water).
- Apply a paste of baking soda and water to the stain.
- Let sit for 30 minutes, then rinse.
- Launder using an enzyme-based detergent.
If contaminated by Biohazards, such items may need to be discarded as per OSHA regulations.
Cleaning Blood from a Mattress
Mattresses are hard to fully disinfect due to their size and absorbency.
Steps:
- Blot the affected area with a cold water and mild soap solution.
- Apply hydrogen peroxide gently to the stain.
- Use a wet vac to remove liquid.
- Allow to air dry completely in sunlight if possible.
For contamination from trauma, professional mattress remediation is highly recommended.
Cleaning Blood from Concrete Floors
Concrete is porous and easily absorbs fluids.
Steps:
- Remove any standing blood with absorbent pads.
- Apply a degreaser or enzymatic cleaner for stains.
- Scrub with a stiff-bristle brush.
- Rinse thoroughly and apply a disinfectant.
Large spills or deeply soaked blood may require professional Decontamination and sealing.
