How to Remove Blood from Carpet (Without Making It Worse)

If you’re staring at a blood stain on your carpet right now, take a breath—you’re not alone. Whether it came from a skinned knee, a nosebleed, a wrestling match gone too far, a surprise paper cut, or a bumped mouth (hello, front teeth collisions), blood stains are just part of real family life. And yes, they can come out—without ruining your carpet.

As a mom of eight and a former Zerorez employee, I’ve cleaned more stains than I can count—some with DIY methods and some with professional help. Here’s what works when it comes to fresh, dried, and especially stubborn blood stains.

Why Are Blood Stains So Hard to Remove?

Blood contains proteins that bond to carpet fibers, especially when exposed to heat. That’s why blood stains can be stubborn—and why some common cleaning instincts (like hot water or scrubbing) can make things worse.

First, What Not to Do to Clean Blood Off Carpet

• Don’t use hot water – it sets the stain permanently.
• Don’t scrub – it spreads the stain and pushes it deeper.
• Don’t wait too long – fresh is always easier to clean.

How to Remove Fresh Blood from Carpet

Materials Needed to Get Rid of Fresh Blood Stains on Carpet:

• Cold water
• Mild dish soap (like Dawn)
• White cloth or paper towels
• Spray bottle (optional)

✅ Step-by-Step Instructions for Treating Fresh Blood on Carpets:

1. Blot the stain using a clean, dry white cloth—don’t rub.
2. Mix your solution: 1 cup of cold water + 1 tsp mild dish soap.
3. Apply to the stain with a cloth or spray bottle—dab gently.
4. Blot again with a clean section of your cloth to lift the stain.
5. Repeat until the stain is gone or no longer lifts.

Tip: Always test your cleaner on a hidden area first.

How to Remove Dried Blood from Carpet

Materials Needed to Treat Dried Blood Stains on Carpet:

• Soft-bristled brush (or old toothbrush)
• Cold water
• Dish soap or enzyme cleaner
• Clear household ammonia (optional)
• White cloths
• Vacuum

✅ Step-by-Step Instructions for Removing Dried Blood Spots on Carpet:

1. Loosen the dried blood by gently brushing it with a soft brush.
2. Vacuum up any flakes or dried residue.
3. Mix your cleaning solution:
   • For mild cleaning: 1 cup cold water + 1 tsp dish soap
   • For stubborn dried stains: 1 tbsp clear ammonia + ½ cup cold water (see caution below)
4. Apply to the stain and let it sit 5–10 minutes.
5. Blot gently, then blot dry with a clean cloth.
6. Repeat as needed, alternating with plain cold water rinses to neutralize the cleaner.

⚠️ Ammonia Warning:

• Test first in an inconspicuous spot.
• Avoid on wool carpets, silk carpets, and rayon carpets as it can damage natural fibers.
• Never mix ammonia with bleach or other cleaners.

Ammonia works because it’s alkaline and breaks down protein bonds, making dried blood easier to lift.

I’ve personally tested this on my carpet and was amazed at how quickly it lifted the dried blood! I first saw ammonia work its magic on dried blood stains on clothing and fabrics. It also works great on lifting lip gloss stains from fabric!

Blood Stain Won’t Lift Off the Carpet? When to Call the Pros

Some stains just don’t come out—or they reappear after drying (that’s called “wicking”). When that happens, I trust Zerorez. I worked there, I’ve used their services in my home, and I know they have a few amazing tricks up their sleeves for tackling blood stains on carpet and upholstery!

Plus, they use Zr™ Water, a cleaning solution that acts like soap but leaves no residue—which helps keep your carpets cleaner, longer!

👉 Click here to schedule Zerorez.

Bonus: Extra Methods for Removing Stubborn Blood Stains on Carpeting

Sometimes dish soap and blotting just don’t cut it—especially with older or set-in stains. Here are a few additional methods to try if you’re still seeing red (literally).

1. Hydrogen Peroxide (3%)

This is a well-known go-to for breaking down protein stains like blood. It bubbles on contact and helps lift old, dried stains.

How to use it:

• Apply 3% hydrogen peroxide directly to the stain (test on a hidden area first!).
• Let it bubble for a minute or two.
• Blot gently with a clean, dry cloth.
• Rinse with cold water and blot again.

If you’re wondering is hydrogen peroxide safe to use on carpet? The answer is yes, except it is not recommended for dark or wool carpets as it may cause discoloration.

2. Baking Soda Paste

Helpful for mild discoloration or deodorizing after a stain is removed.

How to use it:

• Mix baking soda with a small amount of cold water to form a thick paste.
• Spread it over the stain and let it sit for 30 minutes.
• Blot and rinse with cold water.
• Vacuum once dry to remove residue.

3. Oxygen-Based Cleaner (Like OxiClean)

Works on many organic stains, including blood.

• Follow the OxiClean package directions, using cold water only.
• Always test on an inconspicuous spot first.
• These cleaners can be especially helpful for older stains or high-traffic carpet.

4. Enzyme Cleaners

Enzyme cleaners are a game-changer for organic stains like blood because they break down the proteins in the stain rather than just covering it up.

• Great for both fresh and dried blood
• Can help prevent stains from resurfacing

What’s the best enzyme cleaner for blood stains?

One of my favorite options is the Biokleen Bac-Out Stain+Odor Remover.

It’s non-toxic, safe for families and pets, and it works wonders on blood, vomit, and other “real life” messes. Just spray it on, let it sit for 5–10 minutes, and blot—no harsh chemicals required.

Other great options:

• Nature’s Miracle Carpet Shampoo
• Rocco & Roxie Professional Strength Stain & Odor Eliminator

Always test any cleaner on a small, hidden patch of carpet first! These are designed to break down organic matter like blood, vomit, and food stains.

Can vinegar remove blood from carpet?

Vinegar is mildly acidic and can help loosen some types of stains, but it’s not the best choice for removing blood from carpet—especially dried blood.

Blood is a protein-based stain, and vinegar doesn’t break down proteins effectively. In fact, vinegar can sometimes set the stain deeper into the fibers or interfere with enzyme-based cleaners you might use afterward.

If you’re dealing with blood, skip the vinegar and use cold water, dish soap, or an enzyme cleaner instead.

Related Cleaning Tips

• How to Get Poop Out of Carpet
• How to Remove Blood Stains from Clothes
• How to Remove Permanent Marker from Carpet
• DIY Carpet Stain Removal Guide

Blood happens—whether it’s from a skinned knee, a rough play session, or a bumped mouth during bedtime chaos. You don’t have to panic or replace your carpet. Just use the right method, stay calm, and know when to DIY or call in help.