If you’re a dog owner, you already know the struggle. No matter how much you clean or groom your furry friend, dog hair somehow finds its way into every corner of your home especially onto your blankets. While those cozy blankets offer comfort to both you and your pup, keeping them hair-free can feel like an ongoing battle.
But don’t worry! With the right methods and tools, you can effectively remove even the most stubborn pet hair from your blankets and bedding. This guide outlines the best ways including pre-cleaning tips, washing techniques, and ongoing prevention to keep your blankets fresh and free of dog hair.
How to Get Embedded Dog Hair Out of Blankets
Dog hair clinging to fibers can be tricky to remove, but there are a few tried-and-tested strategies to tackle it head-on before washing your blankets.
1. Shake It Off
Take your blanket outside and shake it vigorously. This will loosen a significant amount of lint and pet hair. For stubborn hair, beat the blanket with a broom or similar tool.
2. Use a Dampen Rubber Glove
Slip on a damp rubber glove and run your hand over the blanket’s surface. The hair will stick to the rubber, making removal quick and easy.
3. Lint Rollers and Sticky Tape
A lint roller or some extra-wide sticky tape is a fantastic option for removing visible hair. Simply roll or dab the tape across the blanket to pick up the hair.
4. Vacuum with a Brush Attachment
For embedded hair, use the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner. Go over the entire blanket to extract hair trapped deep in the fibers.
How to Wash Blankets with Dog Hair
The washing machine can work wonders if you follow the right steps. However, running a blanket covered in dog hair through a standard wash cycle often transfers more hair to clothing or leaves residue behind. Here’s how to ensure your wash cycle is effective.
1. Pre-Wash Steps
- Shake & Brush: Remove as much hair as possible (as explained above).
- Rubber Glove or Lint Roller: Ensure the majority of visible hair is gone before loading the blanket into the washer.
2. Use White Vinegar
Add half a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle. Vinegar helps loosen hair from fabric and reduces static cling, making it easier for the washer and dryer to remove hair effectively.
3. Wash Separately
Always wash pet items like blankets separately from your regular laundry to prevent hair transfer. Use a mild detergent that is dog-safe and free from harsh chemicals.
Tips for Drying Pet Hair-Covered Blankets
The dryer can be an invaluable tool for tackling pet hair. Follow these steps for the best results.
1. Run a No-Heat Dryer Cycle First
Before washing, toss your blanket into the dryer on a low or no-heat cycle for 10 minutes. This loosens hair and allows the lint trap to capture a significant amount before washing.
2. Add Dryer Sheets or Dryer Balls
Dryer sheets can reduce static and help repel pet hair, while dryer balls are excellent for dislodging stuck hair during the drying process. Be cautious with dryer sheets around pets, as ingestion can be toxic.
3. Clean the Lint Trap
The lint trap in your dryer will collect the majority of the hair clean it out immediately after drying your pet blankets to ensure smooth airflow for future cycles.
Alternative Ways to Remove Dog Hair Without Washing
Sometimes you may not have time for a full cycle in the washer and dryer. Thankfully, there are methods to remove pet hair without washing.
- Vacuuming: Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush or pet hair attachment on the blanket to quickly pick up surface and embedded hair.
- Sticky Tape: Great for quick touchups.
- Fabric Softener Spray: A solution of fabric softener and water can loosen hair, making it easier to remove with a brush or lint roller.
- Rubber Hand Tools: Tools like rubber brushes or squeegees work wonders for collecting hair.
What Products Can Help Remove Dog Hair?
Certain products can make your life much easier when dealing with pet hair.
- Lint Rollers: A quick, easy, and affordable solution for picking up hair.
- Fur Zapper: Designed for use in washers and dryers to collect pet hair throughout the cleaning process.
- Dryer Balls: Help dislodge pet hair while tumbling in the dryer.
- Pet Hair Remover Brushes: Specifically designed for pulling pet hair from fabrics.
- Pet-Safe Detergent: Mild detergents ensure harmful chemicals remain out of your dog’s blanket.
- Vamoosh Pet Hair Dissolver: A product specially made to dissolve pet hair while washing.
Prevention Tips to Minimize Dog Hair
Preventing excessive hair buildup will save time and effort in the long run.
1. Groom Your Dog Regularly
Brushing your dog daily can significantly reduce shedding and minimize the hair left behind on blankets and bedding.
2. Designated Pet Blankets
Use specific blankets or covers for your dog and wash them weekly. This limits the spread of hair to your bedding and other household items.
3. Choose Hair-Repelling Fabrics
Some materials naturally repel pet hair. Opt for synthetic and tightly woven fabrics for your pet blankets and bedding.
4. Cover High-Traffic Areas
Place an additional throw over your couch or bed to act as a barrier. This can be easily shaken out or cleaned, sparing your primary blankets.
FAQs About Best Way To Get Dog Hair Out Of Blankets
Q1. Does white vinegar dissolve pet hair in the washing machine?
Yes, white vinegar helps loosen pet hair in the washing machine by reducing static cling. Add half a cup during the rinse cycle for best results.
Q2. Do dryer sheets really help remove dog hair?
Yes, dryer sheets reduce static electricity, loosen embedded hair, and can make removal easier. Choose pet-safe options and keep them out of reach of pets.
Q3. How often should I clean dog blankets?
Dog blankets should be cleaned at least once a week to minimize odors, hair buildup, and allergens.
Q4. Are there specific detergents safe for dogs?
Yes, use pet-safe detergents like those from brands like Puracy or Eco-Me to ensure your dog isn’t exposed to harsh chemicals.
Q5. What is the best way to remove dog hair from a blanket without washing it?
Vacuuming, using a lint roller, or wiping down with damp rubber gloves are effective alternatives to washing.
Say Goodbye to Pet Hair
Dealing with dog hair doesn’t need to be a chore if you use the right tools and methods. From pre-cleaning with rubber gloves to using white vinegar in the wash, these strategies ensure your blankets stay fresh and free from fur. With preventative steps like frequent grooming and designated pet blankets, you’ll have less hair to clean in general.
Don’t wait try one of these methods today and enjoy clean, cozy blankets every time!