Pet hair can be frustratingly difficult to remove from carpets, furniture, and other surfaces in your home. However, with the right tools and techniques, you can effectively eliminate pet hair and keep your home looking clean. Here is an in-depth guide on how to remove pet hair from carpets and furniture.
Vacuuming Regularly
Vacuuming frequently is the first line of defense against pet hair. Aim to vacuum carpets and rugs at least 2-3 times per week, especially in high traffic areas and rooms where your pets spend the most time.
Use a vacuum cleaner with a motorized brush head and brush roll. The brush roll helps loosen embedded pet hair so it can be suctioned up. Vacuums with a HEPA filter are ideal as they capture allergens and fine particles.
Change the vacuum bag often or empty the canister when it’s halfway full to maintain strong suction power. Use the hose attachment to vacuum upholstered furniture, curtains, and hard-to-reach areas.
Vacuuming vigilantly prevents pet hair from building up and matting into carpets. It also cuts down on the amount of hair floating through your home and landing on surfaces.
Using Rubber Brooms and Lint Rollers
Rubber brooms are another handy tool for removing pet fur. Their rubber bristles create static electricity that attracts and grabs onto loose hairs.
Use short, light strokes and work in sections to lift pet hair from carpets, rugs, furniture, car seats, and more. The rubber bristles pull up hair that vacuuming misses.
Lint rollers also utilize static electricity. Roll lint rollers over surfaces to quickly pick up pet hair. They’re ideal for spot cleaning furniture, curtains, clothing, and car interiors.
Keep lint rollers handy for tackling touch-ups anytime. Replace the adhesive sheets frequently for best results.
Using Sticky Tape
Lengths of sticky tape provide a cheap and simple way to remove pet hair. Simply press strips of tape onto carpets, furniture, and other areas and peel them off. The tape’s tacky surface grabs onto pet fur.
Some types of tape that work well include:
- Duct tape
- Masking tape
- Packaging tape
- Gorilla tape
Wrap tape around your hand, sticky side out, to cover more surface area quickly. You can also ball up tape and dab it on areas needing attention. Replace pieces of tape often to keep them sticky.
Brushing and Combing Fabrics
For upholstered furniture and carpets, gently brush or comb the fabric to lift up pet hair. Use a slicker brush or comb with short, firm bristles. Work in sections using short, light strokes.
This helps bring trapped pet fur to the surface so it can be easily removed with tape or a vacuum. Be gentle to avoid damaging delicate fabrics. Always vacuum first, then follow up with brushing.
You can also use a wet rubber brush or squeegee. Dip it in water and rub it over surfaces to attract pet hair through static electricity and light friction. The water helps grab onto hair and fur.
Cleaning with Rubber Gloves
For pet hair on furniture or in tight spots, simply put on a pair of rubber gloves and rub your hands over the area. The rubber attracts pet hair through static cling, causing it to stick to the gloves.
Pinch and roll your fingers over the surface to gather hair into little balls that can be picked off. The grooves in rubber gloves help lift even small, fine hairs.
Rinse gloves under running water to remove the fur when they get too dirty. The gloves provide targeted cleaning for stubborn pet hair issues.
Using a Squeegee on Carpets
A window squeegee works surprisingly well at removing hair from low-pile area rugs and wall-to-wall carpeting. Simply:
- Vacuum the carpeting first.
- Run the squeegee over the carpet using firm pressure. Wipe in different directions.
- The rubber blade attracts pet hair while the pressure helps dislodge it.
- Wipe the blade frequently on an old rag or paper towel to collect the fur.
Squeegies help grab pet hair in carpet crevices and fibers where vacuums can miss it. It’s an inexpensive tool that makes carpets look freshly cleaned.
Using Baking Soda as an Absorbent
Baking soda can help remove oil and odors that accumulate along with pet hair. Its properties as a mild abrasive and absorbent also attract and lift fur.
Lightly sprinkle baking soda over carpeted areas and furniture. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes. The baking soda soaks up oils and perspiration that cause pet fur to stick.
Then vacuum thoroughly to lift up the baking soda along with trapped dirt, hair, and allergens. You can also combine baking soda with salt for added cleaning power.
Washing Fabrics and Removable Covers
Laundering fabrics and removable covers is an effective way to eliminate clinging pet fur. This includes:
- Furniture slipcovers
- Pillows and cushions
- Pet beds and mats
- Area rugs
- Throws and blankets
Use the hot water setting and add bleach or color-safe oxy-powered detergent to the wash cycle. Tumble dry on high heat. The agitation, detergent, and heat help loosen and remove embedded pet hair and allergens.
If possible, hang fabrics and area rugs outdoors and use a stiff brush to fluff and remove pet hair while still slightly damp.
Preventing Pet Hair Buildup
To reduce pet hair accumulation:
- Brush pets regularly to control loose, shedding fur.
- Use pet hair sticky rollers on furniture and clothing.
- Close doors to limit pet access to some rooms.
- Place washable rugs at entryways to trap and contain loose hair.
- Clean frequently between deeper cleaning sessions.
- Deep clean carpets and upholstery every 6-12 months.
With routine maintenance and the right tools, you can stay on top of pet hair and keep your home’s surfaces clear. Pay close attention to problem areas and high traffic zones. A little time and elbow grease pays off.
