Whether it's a leather couch, leather boots, or a leather wallet, these items are typically quite expensive and you want to do everything you can to keep them clean and stain-free.
Unfortunately, this natural material is known for being porous, which makes it quite susceptible to discoloration when exposed to blood.
If you want to successfully remove blood from a leather surface, you have plenty of specialized products to choose from — including leather cleaner, saddle soap, and even dish soap. However, if the stain remains, you may need to cover it up with leather polish as a last resort.
When you ever notice blood on one of your leather items, it's essential that you act fast. Leaving the blood to sit on leather for too long can result in stubborn stains that can be difficult to get rid of.
At Chore-ology, we are proud to be experts in biohazard decontamination and blood cleanups. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about removing blood stains from leather, including which products to use and how to use them.
Step 1: Get Rid of Any Excess Blood
If there is a pool of blood on your leather couch or other leather item, you need to get rid of it before you begin cleaning the leather.
Put on a pair of gloves and use a piece of paper towel to gently blot the blood away. You can flush these paper towels down the toilet to get rid of them.
Step 2: Products You Can Use to Remove Blood from Leather
Once you have cleaned up any excess blood, you'll probably notice a stained area on your leather item. You're going to have to use some sort of stain remover to properly clean the leather. Fortunately, there are a few different types of products you could use.
Leather cleaner
In most cases, your best bet is to use a specialized leather cleaner for removing blood from leather items. These types of products can usually be found in grocery shops and department stores. Carefully follow the instructions provided during the application process.
Mild soap
If the blood hasn't been sitting on the leather for too long, then a mild soapy solution may assist in stain removal. Dish soap will work well.
Use a sponge to gently rub the solution onto the leather item and dab it dry with a paper towel or a clean cloth.
Hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide can be highly effective in ridding leather surfaces of mold and blood stains, but the chemical is very harsh and needs to be properly diluted. One tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide in a cup of cold water should do the trick.
Saddle soap
Typically used for cleaning saddles and bridles, saddle soap is another popular product for removing blood from leather goods. You can purchase it from horse-riding shops, certain hardware stores, or even online.
Step 3: How to Use the Products
No matter which product you decide to use when removing blood stains from leather, you should always read the instructions carefully and apply the product with a clean soft cloth.
Anything too abrasive, like a hard-bristle brush, can end up damaging your leather product.
Apply the product to the leather item using circular motions and wipe dry using another clean cloth. You want to ensure that the leather is 100% dry and all the product has been removed from the area when you're done. As you'll be dealing with blood, it's advisable to wear gloves— especially if the blood is not your own.
You may also want to use a diluted version of the product by mixing it with a little bit of cold water before application. Remember to always read the instructions before you start and do not rush the process.
What if the Blood Stain is Still There?
Unfortunately, blood stains on leather are known for being quite stubborn unlike other materials such as bed sheets and clothing fabric. If you can't get the blood stain out with specialized stain removers or homemade solutions, you have a couple of other options available.
Get professional help
A professional cleaner should have years of experience in removing a stubborn stain caused by blood. While professional cleaners can be expensive, they typically provide a surefire way of getting rid of that pesky stain for good!
Chore-ology offers a comprehensive range of biohazard decontamination services, including blood cleanups and crime scene cleanups. If you're interested in our professional services, don't hesitate to contact us today for a free quote.
Use leather polish
Alternatively, you can use leather polish to help hide the stain. It's important to find a polish that is an exact match to the shade of your leather, otherwise, it can end up looking worse.
Apply the polish with a dry cloth, wiping in circular motions until the stain is completely covered. Do not use the leather item again until the polish has dried.
What Products Should I Not Use on Leather?
Be very careful about which products you use when trying to remove blood stains from leather. Certain products can end up worsening the stain or even damaging your leather.
Things you want to avoid are mink oil, furniture wax, vinegar, glass cleaner, and butyl cellosolve.
If you're in doubt, opt for a specialized leather cleaner or a mild soap solution.
Condition Your Leather After Cleaning
Stain-removal products can be quite harsh on your leather items and cause them to dry out. That's why it's always so important to remember to condition your leather after cleaning or using any type of stain remover.
Investing in a high-quality leather conditioner can add years to the lifespan of your leather furniture and shoes. Use a clean cloth to apply the conditioner, using only a small amount at a time so you don't end up oversaturating the leather. Leave the conditioner to sit for roughly an hour before you use the item.
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