How to get rid of pet hair on clothes and bedding

If you're a pet owner, you know the joy that comes with having a furry friend – and the frustration of finding their hair everywhere! From your favourite jumper to your freshly washed bedding, it seems like pet hair has a magical ability to cling to every fabric in sight. But don't worry, you're not alone!

Whether you're dealing with persistent dog fur or sneaky cat hair, this Hoover guide is here to help you win the battle against pet hair on your clothes and bedding.

We'll walk you through everything from preventing hair build-up in the first place to removing those stubborn strands from your laundry. Here’s everything you need to know to tackle pet hair at home.

Preventing pet hair on clothes and bedding

The best way to keep pet hair off your clothes is to stop it from accumulating in your home in the first place. Here are some effective strategies:

• Regular grooming

Brush your pet daily to reduce shedding. This not only keeps your home cleaner but also promotes a healthy coat for your furry friend.

• Vacuum frequently

Use a vacuum cleaner with a pet hair attachment to remove dog hair from carpet and furniture. At Hoover, we offer a range of vacuums with features specifically designed to tackle pet hair, making this task much easier.

• Use protective covers

Place washable covers on furniture and beds where your pet likes to lounge. These can be easily removed and cleaned regularly.

• Create pet-free zones

Consider designating certain areas of your home as pet-free, particularly where you store clean clothes and bedding. If your pets already have free reign at home, you can use positive reinforcement training to encourage them to avoid specific areas.

How to remove pet hair from clothes

Despite your best prevention efforts, you might still find some stubborn pet hair on your clothes.

Here's how to get dog or cat hair off clothes effectively:

• Lint rollers

These are quick and effective for removing pet hair from clothes, especially for last-minute touch-ups.

• Damp rubber gloves

Put on a pair of rubber gloves, dampen them slightly, and run your hands over your clothes. The hair will stick to the gloves.

• Fabric softener solution

Mix fabric softener with water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist your clothes and wipe with a microfiber cloth to remove pet hair.

• Pet hair removal brushes

These specialised tools are designed to lift and remove pet hair from various fabrics.

How to remove cat and dog hair from carpet

Carpets can be a magnet for dog hair, but with the right approach, you can keep them clean and fresh. Here are some effective methods:

1. Vacuum regularly

Use a vacuum cleaner with strong suction and a rotating brush. At Hoover, our range of pet-specific vacuums is designed to tackle even the most stubborn dog and cat hair.

2. Vacuum in multiple directions

Go over the same area from different angles to lift hair trapped in the carpet fibres.

3. Use a carpet rake

These tools are designed to agitate the carpet fibres and bring embedded pet hair to the surface before vacuuming.

4. Deep clean regularly

Consider using a carpet cleaner or hiring a professional service periodically to remove deeply embedded hair and dander.

Vacuuming tips for pet owners:

• Empty your vacuum cleaner's canister or bag frequently to maintain strong suction.
• Clean or replace the vacuum's filters regularly to ensure optimal performance.
• Use the vacuum's attachments to reach corners and along skirting boards where hair often accumulates.
• Consider a robot vacuum for daily maintenance between deep cleans. 

How to remove pet hair from laundry

Finding your freshly washed clothes still covered in pet hair can be frustrating. Here are some tips to effectively remove pet hair from your laundry:

• Pre-treat clothes

Before washing, use a lint roller or pet hair removal brush to remove as much hair as possible.

• Use the right detergent

Some detergents are specifically formulated to help release pet hair from fabrics during washing.

• Add vinegar to the rinse cycle

A half-cup of white vinegar can help loosen pet hair from fabrics and reduce static cling.

• Use dryer sheets

These can help reduce static in the dryer, making it less likely for hair to stick to clothes.

• Clean your washing machine

Regularly run an empty cycle with a cup of white vinegar to remove any lingering hair and prevent it from redepositing on your clothes.

Laundry tips for pet owners

• Shake out clothes vigorously before putting them in the washing machine to dislodge loose hair.
• Wash heavily pet-hair-covered items separately to prevent hair from spreading to other clothes.
• Use a laundry bag for smaller items to contain pet hair during the wash cycle.
• Clean your dryer's lint filter after every load to maintain its efficiency.
• Consider using a pet hair remover ball in your washer and dryer to help collect hair during the cycles.

Remember, consistency is key – regular cleaning and maintenance will make the task much more manageable in the long run.

How to get rid of pet hair from the washing machine

Removing pet hair from clothes and bedding is one thing – but what about removing it from the washing machine itself?

If you find your washing machine retaining pet hair, try these steps:

1. Run an empty cycle: Use hot water and a cup of white vinegar to clean the drum.
2. Clean the filter: Many washing machines have a removable filter that can trap pet hair. Clean this regularly.
3. Wipe down the drum: After each wash involving pet-hair-covered items, wipe down the inside of the drum with a damp cloth.
4. Use a washing machine cleaner: Specialised products can help remove built-up pet hair and other residues from your machine.

Choosing the right appliances for pet owners

Having the right tools can make a big difference in managing pet hair. Here are some appliances that can help:

Vacuum cleaners for removing pet hair

Hoover offers a range of vacuums with powerful suction and specialised pet hair attachments. These are excellent for removing dog hair from carpet, furniture, and even directly from your pet's bed.

Washing machines for removing pet hair

Look for washing machines with built-in pet hair removal features. Many Hoover models come with pre-wash programs and filters designed to catch pet hair before it can redeposit on your clothes.

By combining these strategies and using the right appliances, you can significantly reduce the amount of pet hair on your clothes and bedding. Remember, regular cleaning and maintenance of both your home and your appliances is key to keeping pet hair under control.

Ready to upgrade your pet hair-fighting arsenal? Check out Hoover's range of pet-friendly vacuum cleaners and washing machines to find the perfect fit for your household!