How to Get Period Blood Out of Sheets, Mattress, and Clothes

By MAMARISSA

It happens to nearly every woman at some point: you wake up to find period blood on your sheets, pyjamas, or even your mattress. While frustrating, period stains are completely normal and surprisingly easy to remove if you act quickly and use the right method.

The Golden Rule: Cold Water First

The most important thing to remember is to always start with cold water. Hot water causes blood proteins to bind to fabric fibres, setting the stain permanently. Cold water loosens the blood and makes it much easier to remove. Run cold water through the back of the stain (the side without the blood) to push the stain out rather than deeper into the fabric.

How to Remove Period Blood from Sheets

Fresh Stains (Less Than 24 Hours)

1. Rinse immediately with cold water until the water runs mostly clear.
2. Apply a small amount of liquid soap or dish soap directly to the stain.
3. Gently rub the fabric together to work the soap into the stain.
4. Rinse with cold water again.
5. If the stain remains, apply hydrogen peroxide (3%) directly to the spot and let it fizz for 5 minutes.
6. Rinse and wash as normal in the washing machine on a cold cycle.

Dried or Set-In Stains

1. Soak the stained area in cold water for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for stubborn stains).
2. Make a paste of baking soda and cold water. Apply generously to the stain.
3. Let the paste sit for 30 minutes.
4. Gently scrub with an old toothbrush.
5. Rinse with cold water and check the stain.
6. If needed, apply hydrogen peroxide and let it sit for 10 minutes before rinsing.
7. Wash in the machine on a cold cycle.

How to Clean a Mattress After Period Leaks

1. Blot (do not rub) the stain with a cold, damp cloth to absorb as much blood as possible.
2. Mix one tablespoon of dish soap with two tablespoons of cold water and one tablespoon of salt.
3. Apply the mixture to the stain using a cloth and gently dab.
4. Let it sit for 25-30 minutes.
5. Blot with a clean damp cloth to remove the solution.
6. Sprinkle baking soda over the area and let it dry completely (several hours or overnight).
7. Vacuum up the baking soda once dry.

How to Remove Period Blood from Clothes

The process is similar to sheets, but fabric type matters:

• Cotton and linen: Cold water rinse, then hydrogen peroxide or baking soda paste. These fabrics respond well to most stain removal methods.
• Synthetic fabrics: Cold water rinse, then apply liquid laundry detergent directly. Let it sit for 15 minutes before washing.
• Delicates and silk: Soak in cold salt water (2 tablespoons of salt per litre) for several hours. Do not use hydrogen peroxide on silk or wool.
• Dark fabrics: These are more forgiving. Cold water rinse followed by a normal cold wash is usually sufficient.

Prevention: How to Avoid Period Stains Altogether

The best stain removal method is prevention. Here is how to protect your bedding:

• Use a proper overnight pad. A pad with fin technology like MAMARISSA creates a seal that prevents leaks in any sleeping position.
• Invest in a waterproof mattress protector. Even the best pad cannot guarantee zero accidents over time. A breathable waterproof protector keeps your mattress safe.
• Choose dark-coloured sheets during your period for peace of mind.
• Wear snug period underwear as an extra layer of protection under your pad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does hydrogen peroxide damage fabric?

Standard 3% hydrogen peroxide is safe for most white and light-coloured fabrics. However, it can bleach darker colours, so always test on a small hidden area first. Never use it on silk, wool, or leather.

Can I use hot water to remove blood stains?

No. Hot water sets blood stains permanently by cooking the proteins in the blood. Always use cold water for blood stain removal, even if the stain is old.

What if the stain has already been through the dryer?

Heat-set stains are the hardest to remove but not impossible. Try soaking in a mixture of cold water and enzyme-based laundry detergent overnight, then wash on cold. You may need to repeat the process several times.