Why it's so hard to wash off blood from clothes: When cleaning becomes harder

26.06.2023 23:20
Updated: 13.05.2024 21:25

If you have children who often fall and scratch, or you have a tendency for nosebleeds, then you know that getting blood out of clothes can be difficult.

It's even more difficult when the stain is quite old, so sometimes you have to buy new clothes.

This is why blood stains are so hard to get rid of.

Protein Content

Blood contains proteins, particularly hemoglobin, which can bind tightly to fabric fibers. 

Proteins have a tendency to coagulate and form strong bonds, making them resistant to regular cleaning methods.

ties
Photo:Pixabay

Hemoglobin Oxidation

When blood comes into contact with air, the iron in hemoglobin undergoes oxidation, resulting in a chemical change that can cause the stain to become more stubborn and difficult to remove. 

This oxidation process can cause the blood stain to set into the fabric, making it even harder to wash away.

Absorption and Penetration

Blood can be quickly absorbed into fabric fibers, especially if the fabric has a porous or absorbent nature. 

The longer the blood remains on the fabric, the deeper it can penetrate into the fibers, making it more challenging to remove completely.

Temperature Sensitivity

Blood stains are particularly sensitive to high temperatures. 

Heat can cause the proteins in blood to denature and bind more strongly to the fabric, setting the stain further. 

Therefore, using hot water or heat during the washing process can make it harder to remove blood stains effectively.
 

Author: Kate Yakimchuk Editor internet resource

Content
  1. Protein Content
  2. Hemoglobin Oxidation
  3. Absorption and Penetration
  4. Temperature Sensitivity