How to Get Blood Out of Concrete: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Blood Stains from Concrete

1. Safety First
Before you begin the cleaning process, prioritize your safety. Blood can carry pathogens, so it’s crucial to protect yourself:

• Wear protective gloves: Disposable latex or nitrile gloves are ideal.
• Use a mask and safety goggles: Protect your eyes and respiratory system from splashes and fumes.
• Wear old clothing or a disposable coverall: Prevent contamination of your regular clothes.

2. Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
You’ll need the following materials to effectively remove blood from concrete:

• Hydrogen peroxide (3% solution)
• Liquid dish soap
• Baking soda
• Scrub brush or stiff-bristled brush
• Clean water
• Bucket
• Absorbent materials (paper towels or rags)
• Optional: TSP (trisodium phosphate) for stubborn stains

3. Initial Cleaning
Begin by removing as much of the blood as possible before it dries:

1. Blot the area: Use paper towels or absorbent rags to blot up any excess blood. Avoid rubbing, as this can push the blood deeper into the concrete.

4. Apply Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is an effective blood stain remover due to its oxidizing properties:

1. Pour hydrogen peroxide on the stain: Ensure the area is saturated but not flooded.
2. Let it sit: Allow the hydrogen peroxide to sit for about 10-15 minutes. It will foam as it reacts with the blood.

5. Scrub the Stain
After the hydrogen peroxide has had time to break down the blood:

1. Scrub the area: Use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub the stain in a circular motion. This helps lift the blood from the porous concrete.

6. Rinse and Repeat
Rinse the area with clean water to remove the hydrogen peroxide and loosened blood. Repeat steps 4 and 5 if the stain persists.

7. Create a Baking Soda Paste
For stubborn stains, a baking soda paste can help:

1. Mix baking soda and water: Combine baking soda with a small amount of water to create a thick paste.
2. Apply the paste: Spread the paste over the stain and let it sit for about 15 minutes.
3. Scrub again: Use the brush to scrub the paste into the stain, then rinse thoroughly with water.

8. Optional: Use TSP for Tough Stains
If the stain remains despite your efforts, trisodium phosphate (TSP) can be used for more intensive cleaning:

1. Prepare TSP solution: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to mix TSP with water.
2. Apply the solution: Apply the TSP solution to the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
3. Scrub and rinse: Scrub the area with a brush, then rinse thoroughly with clean water.

9. Final Rinse and Dry
Ensure all cleaning agents are thoroughly rinsed away to prevent residue:

1. Rinse with clean water: Use plenty of water to rinse the area completely.
2. Dry the area: Allow the concrete to air dry or use a clean, dry towel to speed up the process.

Preventing Future Stains
To minimize the risk of future stains, consider sealing your concrete. A quality concrete sealer creates a protective barrier, making it easier to clean and preventing stains from penetrating deeply.

​Conclusion
Removing blood from concrete requires patience and the right approach. By following these steps, you can effectively clean the stain and restore the appearance of your concrete surfaces. Remember, prompt action is key to preventing permanent discoloration and maintaining a clean, safe environment.