How to Remove Blood Stains from Concrete

Dried blood stains can sometimes be really hard to remove from concrete surfaces. This is mainly because they are of an organic type, where organic compounds can penetrate and fill the pores to form stubborn stains. Consequently, their removal requires the use of chemicals which can either break down or eat organic materials. Basic concrete cleaners, degreasers, soap, or vinegar are typically ineffective and are not suitable for cleaning blood stains.

In this article, we will address some of the most effective materials and methods for the removal of blood stains from concrete surfaces.

The best cleaning methods

There are various methods to remove blood stains from concrete, which include the use of different materials and techniques. However, some highly effective materials can be highly hazardous, and thereby we will not include them in the list of methods. For example, one of the most effective methods involves the application of sodium peroxide, which is a very caustic chemical. Accordingly, we will only include methods which involve the use of relatively less hazardous chemicals, although they can be less effective.

The easiest method for the removal of blood stains from concrete

One of the easiest methods, yet very effective, is to use a common antiseptic – 3% hydrogen peroxide.

Things you will need

• Hydrogen peroxide 3%.
• Bristle brush.
• Clean water.

Notes

• Hydrogen Peroxide.
  Appearance: Colorless liquid.
  Availability: It is available at the supermarkets, pharmacies, hardware stores, and chemical supply centers.
  Hazards: This compound is toxic, corrosive to flesh, and flammable at high concentrations. However, it is generally non-hazardous at the typical concentration of 3%.

Steps

1. Apply hydrogen peroxide to the surface.
2. Scrub using a bristle brush.
3. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
4. Repeat if necessary.

Explanation

This method includes a simple mechanical action along with a chemical action, which can help loosen up the stain and break it down, before washing it off. You can repeat this process until the stain is washed off completely. However, if the repetition achieves no further improvement, you can try a different method.

The homemade paste method

In this method, the effective household product is tri-sodium phosphate (TSP). Although you can use this product as a solution to clean blood stains, we will address the poultice-like method which is more effective.

Things you will need

• Safety gear.
• Tri-sodium phosphate (TSP).
• Bristle brush.
• Clean water.

Notes

• Trisodium Phosphate: Other names include Sodium Orthophosphate, TSP, or Phosphate of Soda.
  Appearance: White crystalline powder.
  Availability: It is available at the supermarkets.
  Hazards: It is corrosive to flesh.

Steps

1. Put on your safety gear.
2. Mix 1 part of TSP with 4 parts of water to a paste-like form.
3. Apply this mixture to the stain, and let it sit until it dries.
4. Scrape off the remains and scrub the surface using a bristle brush.
5. Rinse and flush with clean water.

Explanation

This method is somewhat similar to a poultice, but does not include the use of a powder material in the mixture.

Removing blood stains from concrete with organic stain cleaners

Organic stain cleaners work great for the removal of blood stains, since blood is an organic material. Accordingly, the effective chemical in this method is a cleaner for organic stains, including some types of laundry detergents which contain hydrogen peroxide.

Things you will need

• Safety gear.
• Organic stain cleaner.
• Bristle brush.
• Clean water.

Steps

1. Wear your protective gear.
2. Prepare the mixture as per the product’s instruction.
3. Brush the stains using a bristle brush.
4. Rinse with clean water.
5. Repeat if necessary.

Explanation

Basically, any product which can remove or clean organic stains is expected to be effective for the removal of blood stains from concrete.

Conclusion

Although organic stains can sometimes be really stubborn, they are not permanent. Mainly, it is crucial to use an adequate cleaner or homemade remedy which is capable of breaking down or loosening up the organic compounds. Some common methods and cleaners including vinegar, soap, and degreasers are basically ineffective for the removal of organic stains, and some can just cause more harm.