Question

Why should bloodstained evidence not be stored in airtight containers ? What is the best way to store such evidence ?

Answer 1

Fresh, wet blood should never be sealed into an airtight plastic package or container, as it degrades in few days.

In airtight containers the accumulation of moisture will lead to the growth of mold which can destroy evidential value in blood.

The best way to preserve wet or damp pieces of blood evidence is to allow them to air dry first. Then, samples may be placed in a paper bag and then stored inside a refrigerator.

Drying the specimens or samples and then freezing will save such samples indefinitely, because it will drastically slow down the deterioration process.