To remove dry blood stains from clothes without damaging the fabric, you can follow these steps:
Act quickly: It's best to address the stain as soon as possible. The longer the blood stain sets, the harder it becomes to remove.
Pre-treat the stain: Start by gently scraping off any dried blood from the fabric using a blunt knife or spoon. Avoid rubbing the stain, as it can push it further into the fabric.
Rinse with cold water: Hold the stained area under cold running water to flush out as much blood as possible. Avoid using hot water as it can set the stain.
Apply a stain remover: Use a mild liquid detergent or a specialized stain remover specifically designed for blood stains. Apply a small amount directly to the stain, covering the affected area completely.
Gently rub and soak: Gently rub the fabric together to work the detergent into the stain. Then, let the garment soak in cold water for about 30 minutes. Check the garment's care label to ensure it can be soaked.
Launder as usual: After soaking, wash the garment in the washing machine using cold water and a regular cycle. Make sure to follow the instructions on the garment's care label.
Check for remaining stains: Once the wash cycle is complete, inspect the garment to see if the stain has been completely removed. If any traces of the stain remain, avoid drying the garment as it can set the stain further. Instead, repeat the pre-treating and washing process.
Air dry: If the stain is fully removed, allow the garment to air dry naturally. Heat from the dryer can set any remaining traces of the stain, making it more difficult to remove later.
It's important to note that different fabrics may require slight variations in the stain removal process. If you're uncertain, you can always consult the care label on the clothing or seek professional dry-cleaning advice.