Always start with cold water – and the sooner you act, the better!!!!

Blood stains are a classic protein-based problem – and the golden rule is: never use hot water!

Hot water will literally “cook” the blood into the fibres, making it far harder to remove.

Soak the garment in cold water first, then gently rub the stained area. Next, apply an enzymatic detergent or a stain-removing soap and leave it to work for 15–30 minutes. If the stain is stubborn, you can also try a paste made from bicarbonate of soda and water, then rinse thoroughly.

For white fabrics, hydrogen peroxide or bleaching salt (sodium percarbonate) can be very effective – just remember to do a patch test in an inconspicuous area first.