To get blood out of denim, the recommended method involves soaking the stain in cold water, applying soap, gently rubbing, and then rinsing with cold water.
Steps for Removing Blood Stains from Denim
Dealing with blood stains on denim requires quick action and the right technique to prevent the stain from setting. Based on common practices, the following steps can be highly effective:
-
Step 1: Soak the Stain in Cold Water
Immediately immerse the stained area of your denim jeans in cold water. Avoid using hot water, as heat can cause the blood proteins to coagulate and bond with the denim fibers, making the stain much harder to remove. -
Step 2: Apply Soap
While the stain is still wet from the cold soak, put a teaspoon of soap directly onto the stained area. You can use a mild laundry soap or even dish soap. -
Step 3: Gently Rub the Soap
Gently rub the soap into the stain. You can use your finger or an old toothbrush for this step. The goal is to work the soap into the fabric to lift the blood without damaging the denim. Rubbing too aggressively might spread the stain or harm the fibers. -
Step 4: Rinse with Cold Water
Rinse the area thoroughly with cold water to wash away the soap and the lifted blood. Check the stain after rinsing. If the stain is still visible, you may need to repeat the process or try other stain removal methods appropriate for denim.
Always ensure the stain is completely gone before washing the jeans as you normally would or putting them in a dryer, as heat from washing or drying can permanently set any remaining stain.
Why Cold Water is Crucial
Blood contains proteins. When exposed to heat (like hot water or a dryer), these proteins "cook" and bond tightly to the fabric fibers, making them incredibly difficult, if not impossible, to remove. Cold water, on the other hand, helps keep the proteins from setting, allowing them to be washed away more easily.
