Oh no! Accidents happen, and sometimes those accidents involve blood stains on your beloved fabric couch. Don’t panic, Kiwis! Here at The Dirt Doctors, we’ve got your back (and your couch) covered.
We understand how stressful it can be to see a blood stain on your furniture. But fear not, with some quick action and the right techniques, you can often remove the stain completely and restore your couch to its former glory.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Clean, white cloths or paper towels
- Cold water
- Dish soap (mild)
- Baking soda (optional)
- Hydrogen peroxide (3% solution, optional) Always test in an inconspicuous area first
Step 1: Act Fast!
The sooner you tackle the blood stain, the easier it will be to remove. Blot up as much of the excess blood as possible using a clean, white cloth or paper towel. Don’t rub, as this can spread the stain further. Just gently press down to absorb the blood.
Step 2: Treat the Stain
Option 1: Cold Water and Dish Soap
- Mix a few drops of mild dish soap in a bowl of cold water.
- Dip a clean white cloth into the soapy solution, wring it out so it’s damp (not dripping).
- Gently dab the stain with the damp cloth, working from the outside of the stain inwards to prevent spreading.
- Rinse the cloth frequently in clean water and repeat dabbing until the stain disappears.
Option 2: Baking Soda (For Tough Stains)
- If the stain persists, sprinkle baking soda on the affected area.
- Leave it for 30 minutes to absorb any remaining blood.
- Brush off the baking soda and follow steps 2-4 from Option 1.
Option 3: Hydrogen Peroxide (Use with Caution! Test First)
Important: Always test hydrogen peroxide on an inconspicuous area of your couch fabric first to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration.
- If the stain is still visible, dampen a clean cloth with a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution.
- Dab the stain gently, working from the outside inwards.
- Rinse the area thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining peroxide.
Step 3: Drying
Once the stain is gone, allow the area to air dry completely. Avoid using heat sources like a hairdryer, as this can set the stain.
Pro Tips:
- Always test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area of your couch fabric first to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration.
- If the stain is large or particularly stubborn, it’s best to consult a professional upholstery cleaner.
- For routine cleaning of your fabric couch, vacuum regularly to remove dust and dirt that can attract stains.
By following these steps and using the right techniques, you can effectively remove blood stains from your fabric couch and keep your New Zealand home looking fresh and clean.
Bonus Tip: Here at The Dirt Doctors, we offer professional upholstery cleaning services throughout New Zealand. If you’re dealing with a stubborn stain or simply want a deep clean for your couch, contact us for a free quote!