How to get dog hair out of clothes: The ultimate guide

Does your furry friend leave a trail of hair on your clothes? Are you tired of walking around with a fuzz-covered outfit? Our ultimate guide to getting dog hair out of clothes covers the best tricks, tools, and tips to help you deal with this hairy situation. With these techniques, you can say goodbye to lint rollers and sticky tape and hello to hair-free clothing.

Why is dog hair hard to remove?

Ever emptied out a freshly washed load of laundry only to find it still covered in dog hair? Super frustrating! Why is dog hair so hard to get rid of even after a full wash and dry cycle? 

Well, it's because dog hair tends to weave itself into the very fabric of your clothes. And if you thought all dog hair was created equal, it’s not, unfortunately. Some breeds have hair that clings like a magnet due to static electricity.

On top of that, dog hair contains moisture that causes it to clump together. This makes it easier for it to get stuck in the fibers of your clothes, furniture, and even your car seats. So, what can you do about it? There are several ways to tackle this hairy problem.

Top 10 tips for removing dog hair from clothes

Here’s how to effectively remove dog hair from your favorite clothes, plus ways to prevent or cut down on dog hair accumulating in the first place.  

1. Prevention is better than a cure

Groom your dog regularly to reduce shedding. If your dog has long hair, brush it daily if you can. Even just 1-2 minutes will help. Brushing and grooming can help remove loose hair before it ends up on your clothes. Invest in pet-friendly furniture covers and designate areas in your home where either dogs aren’t allowed or your clothing is off-limits to pets.

2. Use static electricity

Rubbing a dryer sheet or inflated balloon over clothes can help dislodge stubborn dog hair by creating static electricity that attracts hair.

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3. Spray fabric softener

Mix one part liquid fabric softener and four parts water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist your clothes or other surfaces you want to protect, then use a vacuum, brush, or cloth to remove dog hair.

4. Rubber gloves to the rescue

Put on a pair of rubber gloves, dampen them slightly with a bit of water, and rub your hands over your clothes or any other fabric that attracts pup dander and fur. The hair sticks to the wet glove, which you can then rinse off. 

5. Dampen a sponge or cloth

Dampen a sponge or microfiber cloth and gently wipe your clothes. Dog hair will cling to the moist surface, making it easier to collect and dispose of.

6. The power of a lint roller

This classic tool is an essential weapon in the fight against dog hair. Roll it over your clothes, and watch as it picks up every last strand.

7. Try a damp sponge

Much like the rubber glove trick, a slightly damp sponge can work wonders in picking up dog hair from clothes. Simply run it over your outfit and watch as the hair clings to it like magic.

8. Use dryer sheets in your laundry

Dryer sheets not only make your clothes smell fresh but also have anti-static properties that help loosen dog hair. Toss a few in the dryer with your clothes, and you'll see a noticeable difference. You

9. Silicon pet hair rakes are your best friend

Silicone pet hair rakes work wonders on pet hair. These specially designed tools have tiny rubber bristles that create a static charge when in contact with fabric, making it easier to remove hair from clothing. Simply run the rake over your clothes and watch as the hair clings to it like a magnet.

10. Baking Soda

Before vacuuming your carpets, sprinkle baking soda on the area. It helps loosen the pet hair and makes it easier to vacuum up.

Faqs: dog hair on your dockers(tm) edition

Q: How do I remove dog hair from dark-colored clothing without using a lint roller?

A: Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe away the hair. Try rubbing a pair of rubber gloves over your outfit or using a dryer sheet to create static electricity and attract hair. Additionally, you can use a lint brush or pet hair removal brush to gently remove the hair.

Q: Can I use these methods on delicate fabrics?

A: It’s best to test any method on a small area of the fabric first before applying it to the entire garment. Delicate fabrics may require more gentle techniques, such as using a soft cloth or sponge, to avoid damaging the fabric.

Q: Is it safe to use the dryer to remove dog hair from my clothes?

A: Using a dryer can be an effective method to remove dog hair from clothing. Make sure to clean out the lint trap after each use to prevent build-up. Using dryer sheets or wool dryer balls can enhance the effectiveness of this method.

Q: How often should I brush my dog to reduce shedding?

A: The frequency of brushing depends on your dog's breed and coat type. Generally, brushing your dog once a week is adequate for most breeds, but dogs with longer hair might require more frequent grooming. Even a few minutes a day helps! 

Q: Will washing my clothes in hot water help remove dog hair?

A: Hot water isn't necessarily more effective at removing dog hair. However, using a good quality laundry detergent and fabric softener can help loosen dog hair during the wash cycle.

Q: Can I prevent my dog from shedding so much?

A: Shedding is a natural process and cannot be completely prevented. However, regular grooming, a healthy diet, and occasional vet check-ups can help manage excessive shedding.

Q: What type of dog breeds shed the least?

A: Breeds like the Poodle, Maltese, and Bichon Frise are known for their hypoallergenic coats that shed less compared to other breeds.

Q: Can I use any type of rubber gloves to remove dog hair?

A: Any type of clean rubber gloves should work. The material creates friction that helps to lift hair from the fabric. Dampening the gloves can enhance the effectiveness of this method.

Q: Does the color of my clothes affect how much dog hair will stick to them?

A: The color of your clothes doesn't affect how much dog hair they attract. However, dog hair may be more visible on clothing that contrasts with your dog's hair color.

Q: How do I remove dog hair that's woven into fabric?

A: A Velcro hair remover or a pet hair removal brush can be effective tools for removing hair that's woven into the fabric. They work by catching the woven-in hairs in their bristles.

Q: Is it better to wash clothes with dog hair by hand or in a washing machine?

A: Either method can be effective, but a washing machine is generally more efficient. Using a pet hair laundry bag or adding a fabric softener can improve the results.

Q: Are there any special detergents or laundry products that can help remove dog hair?

A: There are some specialized pet hair removal detergents and fabric softeners on the market, but regular laundry products can also be effective at removing dog hair from clothes. Experiment to find what works best for you and your furry friend.

Final thoughts on furballs

Dogs and pets bring us love and joy! But they also can also bring us hair-laden clothes and a lot more laundry. With the right techniques and a bit of patience, you can keep your wardrobe looking sharp while still enjoying all the benefits of having a four-legged friend by your side. So go ahead, snuggle up with your pup, and then follow these tips and tricks to say goodbye to furry clothes for good!

Want more tips and tricks to make your home life a breeze? Visit the Greenlight Learning Center for helpful resources on all things family, finance, and fun.