Pet Owners’ Guide to Laundry: Tips for Removing Pet Hair and Odors

1. Pre-Treat Clothes for Hair Removal

The first step to preventing pet hair buildup in the washing machine is to pre-treat clothes. Removing as much pet hair as possible before washing will save you time and help avoid clogged drains and filters.

• Use a Lint Roller or Sticky Tape: Before tossing clothes or blankets in the wash, use a lint roller or wide masking tape to remove loose hair. This will help keep your washer from becoming coated with pet hair.

• Shake and Snap: For larger items like comforters or pet blankets, take them outside and give them a good shake or snap. This will loosen a significant amount of hair before washing.

• Rubber Gloves or Damp Sponge: If you don’t have a lint roller, try using a damp rubber glove or sponge. Simply rub the glove or sponge over the fabric, and hair will stick to it, making it easier to remove.

2. Use Dryer Sheets or Dryer Balls to Loosen Hair

Pet hair can be difficult to remove with washing alone. One of the most effective ways to get rid of pet hair is to use the dryer to help loosen it.

• Throw Items in the Dryer First: For clothes that are covered in pet hair, try running them in the dryer for about 10 minutes on a no-heat or low-heat setting before washing. The tumbling action helps loosen the hair, and the lint trap catches much of it.

• Add Dryer Balls: Wool or rubber dryer balls can help separate clothes, reducing static and allowing more hair to be caught by the lint trap. They’re especially useful for removing pet hair from blankets and bedding.

• Dryer Sheets: Use a dryer sheet, even if you don’t normally, as the anti-static properties help loosen pet hair from fabrics, making it easier to wash away.

3. Add Vinegar to the Wash for Odor Removal

Pet odors can linger on clothing, blankets, and other fabrics even after washing. A natural and effective solution is to use white vinegar, which acts as a natural deodorizer and softener.

• Add a Cup of Vinegar: Pour a cup of white vinegar directly into the washing machine drum along with your usual detergent. Vinegar helps neutralize odors, breaks down pet hair, and softens fabric without leaving a strong scent behind.

• Baking Soda Boost: For extra odor-fighting power, add half a cup of baking soda to the wash. This is particularly effective for pet bedding, towels, and other items that may retain strong smells.

• Use a Mild Pet-Safe Detergent: If you’re washing items your pet sleeps on, look for mild detergents without harsh fragrances or chemicals. Some commercial detergents contain scents that may be too strong for your pet’s sensitive nose and skin.

4. Clean the Washing Machine and Dryer Regularly

With repeated washing of pet items, your washer and dryer can accumulate hair, odors, and pet dander. Regular maintenance of these appliances ensures they work effectively and prevent pet hair from getting onto other loads of laundry.

• Clean the Lint Trap: Always empty the lint trap after every load to prevent hair buildup. Pet hair can clog your dryer and even become a fire hazard if left unchecked.

• Run an Empty Cycle with Vinegar: Every few weeks, run an empty cycle with hot water and a cup of white vinegar to clean your washing machine drum. This helps break down any residue and keeps your washer smelling fresh.

• Wipe Down Surfaces: After each pet laundry load, take a damp cloth and wipe down the drum of both the washer and dryer. This removes residual pet hair and keeps hair from transferring to other clothing.

5. Use Furniture Covers and Washable Pet Blankets

One way to keep pet hair and odors off your clothes and out of the washer is to contain them at the source.

• Designate Pet Blankets: Use a specific blanket or throw on your pet’s favorite spot. This catches most of the hair and dander, and you can wash it regularly without needing to clean the entire couch or bedspread.

• Cover Furniture: Furniture covers that are easy to remove and wash help limit how much hair and dirt end up on clothes. Choose materials like microfiber that are easier to shake out and less likely to trap hair.

• Vacuum and Brush Regularly: Routine grooming and vacuuming will also help reduce the amount of hair that transfers to clothes and laundry. A well-groomed pet sheds less, which means less hair for you to tackle on laundry day.

6. Consider Tip Top Laundry Service for Heavy-Duty Items

For bulky items like pet beds, large blankets, and comforters that tend to collect hair and odors, a Tip Top Laundry service can be a convenient solution. Tip Top Laundry has large machines and specialized treatments for removing pet hair and odor more effectively than home washers. Our laundry service is also helpful for cleaning items that don’t fit comfortably in home machines or need extra care to preserve their quality.

Final Thoughts: Keep Your Home Fresh with Pet-Friendly Laundry Practices

As much as we love our pets, their hair and unique smells can be challenging to manage when it comes to laundry. With the right techniques, though, you can keep pet hair and odors from taking over your clothes and household fabrics. From pre-treating pet blankets to using natural deodorizing solutions, these tips will help you maintain a fresh and fur-free home without sacrificing quality time with your furry friend.

For those especially tough or bulky items like pet beds and large blankets, consider using Tip Top Laundry Service - we specialize in handling pet-related laundry and offer pickup and delivery options for ultimate convenience. With professional equipment and specialized treatments, Tip Top Laundry can help you keep your home fresh, so you can focus on enjoying life with your pet.