Effect of fabric washing on the presumptive identification of bloodstains

The purpose of this study was to investigate the retention of blood stains on twelve different types of fabrics after washing at various drying times. The findings of this study, supported by chi-square analysis, indicate that the retention of bloodstains on washed fabrics depends upon the particular fiber composition of the fabric, the specific blood screening test used, and whether or not a detergent was used in the wash. The results of this research did not reveal a significant effect of the drying time on the retention of bloodstains, as tested during the 48-h limit of this experiment. The author concludes that the forensic serologist should consider the factors investigated in this study before rendering an opinion on the retention of bloodstains on washed garments.