How To Get Dog Hair Out Of Washer

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Introduction

Dealing with dog hair can be a constant battle, and it’s not just limited to your floors and furniture. If you’re a pet owner, you may have experienced the frustration of finding dog hair in unexpected places, like your washing machine. Often, the fur from your furry friend can find its way into the washer, creating a messy situation. But fear not, as there are effective steps you can take to get dog hair out of your washer and ensure your laundry comes out clean and hair-free.

In this article, we will explore the common causes of dog hair in the washer and provide practical tips on how to remove it. We will also discuss steps for properly cleaning your washer to prevent future hair accumulation. So, let’s dive in and say goodbye to unwanted dog hair in the washer!

Common Causes of Dog Hair in the Washer

Finding dog hair in your washer can be a nuisance, but understanding the common causes can help you tackle the problem effectively. Here are a few reasons why your washer may end up with dog hair:

1. Unremoved hair from clothing: It’s not uncommon for our clothes to trap dog hair, especially if we cuddle with our furry friends or if they have a habit of sleeping on our beds or sofas. When we toss these clothes into the washer without pre-treating or shaking them out, the hair can easily accumulate and transfer to other items in the load.
2. Washing pet bedding or blankets: If you regularly wash your dog’s bedding or blankets in the washer, there’s a high chance that loose hairs will end up sticking to the walls of the machine or getting tangled in the drum.
3. Dirty washer filters: Hair that is already present in the washer can easily clog up the filters, preventing them from catching the hair effectively and allowing it to circulate in the machine.
4. Not cleaning the washer regularly: Over time, soap scum, dirt, and fabric softener residue can build up in your washer, creating a sticky environment where dog hair can easily cling to the walls, drum, and seals.
5. Not emptying the pockets: It’s common for pet owners to find surprises in their pet’s pockets, such as hairballs or treats. If these items are not removed before a wash, they can contribute to the presence of dog hair in the washer.

Now that we know the common causes of dog hair in the washer, it’s time to move on to the steps for preparing the washer for cleaning.

Preparing the Washer for Cleaning

Before you start removing dog hair from your washer, it’s important to take a few necessary steps to prepare the machine for cleaning. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Empty the washer: Remove any laundry or items from the washer so you can access all the areas that may have accumulated dog hair.
2. Unplug the machine: For safety reasons, always disconnect the power supply before working on any electrical appliance.
3. Gather the necessary cleaning tools: You’ll need some basic cleaning tools such as rubber gloves, a lint roller, a microfiber cloth, an old toothbrush, and a vacuum cleaner with brush attachments.
4. Read the washer manual: Familiarize yourself with the specific instructions and precautions outlined in the manual for your particular washer model.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure a safe and effective cleaning process. After preparing the washer, we can move on to the next phase, which involves removing the hair from the washer tub.

Removing Hair from the Washer Tub

Once you’ve prepared the washer for cleaning, it’s time to tackle the hair that has accumulated in the tub. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you remove the dog hair:

1. Put on rubber gloves: This will protect your hands from any dirt or debris that may be present.
2. Use a lint roller or a microfiber cloth: Start by running a lint roller or a slightly dampened microfiber cloth along the walls and bottom of the washer tub. This will help to pick up loose hairs.
3. Vacuum the tub: Use a vacuum cleaner with brush attachments to thoroughly vacuum the walls and bottom of the tub. The brush attachment will help to loosen and suck up the hair more effectively.
4. Check the agitator: If your washer has an agitator, inspect it for any hair that may be wrapped around it. If you find any, carefully remove it using your gloved hands or an old toothbrush.

By following these steps, you should be able to remove a significant amount of dog hair from the washer tub. However, there are other areas of the washer that also need attention, such as the filter and the seal, which we will address next.

Cleaning the Washer Filter

The washer filter plays a crucial role in trapping debris, including dog hair, during the wash cycle. Over time, the filter can become clogged, reducing its effectiveness and allowing hair to circulate in the machine. Here’s how you can clean the washer filter:

1. Locate the filter: Consult your washer manual to find the location of the filter. It is usually located at the front or bottom of the machine.
2. Prepare a cleaning solution: Mix a solution of warm water and mild detergent in a bucket or sink.
3. Remove the filter: Depending on your washer model, you may need to twist, pull, or unscrew the filter to remove it. Be prepared for some water to drain out when removing the filter.
4. Clean the filter: Soak the filter in the cleaning solution for a few minutes to loosen any debris. Then, use a soft brush or old toothbrush to scrub away any stubborn hair or dirt from the filter.
5. Rinse and dry: Rinse the filter thoroughly under running water to remove any soap residue. Pat it dry with a clean cloth or towel.
6. Reinstall the filter: Once the filter is dry, place it back in its original position and secure it properly.

Regularly cleaning the washer filter will help maintain the efficiency of your washing machine and prevent the build-up of dog hair. However, there’s another important component that requires attention—the washer seal.

To get dog hair out of the washer, try using a lint roller or a dampened sponge to remove as much hair as possible before running a cleaning cycle with vinegar and baking soda. Use a pet hair remover in the future to prevent buildup.

Cleaning the Washer Seal

The washer seal, also known as the door gasket or rubber seal, is another area where dog hair can accumulate and cause problems. Cleaning the seal is essential to prevent the growth of mold and remove any trapped hair. Here’s how you can clean the washer seal:

1. Inspect the seal: Carefully examine the seal for any visible hair or dirt. Pay close attention to the crevices and folds where hair may gather.
2. Prepare a cleaning solution: Mix a solution of equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle.
3. Spray and wipe: Liberally spray the cleaning solution onto the seal, focusing on areas with visible hair or stains. Use a clean microfiber cloth or a soft brush to gently scrub the seal. Be thorough but gentle to avoid damaging the rubber.
4. Reach tight spots: For hard-to-reach areas, use a cotton swab or an old toothbrush soaked in the cleaning solution to remove any trapped hair.
5. Rinse and dry: Once you’ve cleaned the seal, dampen a clean cloth with plain water and wipe away any residue. Make sure to dry the seal thoroughly to prevent moisture accumulation.
6. Perform regular maintenance: To keep the seal clean and prevent future hair accumulation, make it a habit to regularly wipe down the seal after each wash.

By regularly cleaning the washer seal, you’ll not only eliminate dog hair but also ensure a hygienic and odor-free environment inside your washer.

Now that we’ve addressed the hair in the tub, the filter, and the seal, it’s time to clean the washer drum and learn some tips to prevent dog hair from getting into the washer in the first place.

Cleaning the Washer Drum

The washer drum is another area where dog hair can accumulate over time. Cleaning the drum is essential to maintain the cleanliness and efficiency of your washer. Here’s how you can clean the washer drum:

1. Prepare a cleaning solution: Fill a bucket or sink with hot water and add a cup of white vinegar. Vinegar helps to break down residue and remove odors.
2. Wipe down the drum: Dip a clean cloth or sponge into the cleaning solution and wipe down the inside of the drum. Pay attention to areas where hair may be stuck, such as the holes and crevices of the drum.
3. Use an old toothbrush: For stubborn hair or dirt, use an old toothbrush dipped in the cleaning solution to scrub the affected areas gently. This will help loosen and remove any stubborn residue.
4. Rinse the drum: Once you’ve wiped and scrubbed the drum, use a clean cloth or sponge dipped in plain water to rinse away any remaining cleaning solution.
5. Perform a maintenance wash: To ensure the drum is thoroughly cleaned and free from any residual hair, run an empty cycle with hot water and a cup of baking soda. This will help eliminate any remaining odors and residue.

Regular cleaning of the washer drum will not only remove dog hair but also help prevent any buildup that could affect the performance and longevity of your machine.

Now that we’ve covered the cleaning aspects, let’s explore some tips to prevent dog hair from finding its way into your washer in the first place.

Tips for Preventing Dog Hair in the Washer

Preventing dog hair from getting into the washer can save you time and effort in the long run. Here are some helpful tips to keep dog hair out of your washing machine:

1. Pre-treat and shake out clothes: Before loading your dirty laundry into the washer, give them a quick shake outside to remove any loose hair. For heavily soiled items or those with embedded hair, consider pre-treating them or using a lint roller before washing.
2. Designate pet-free zones: Establish certain areas in your home where pets are not allowed, such as bedrooms or laundry rooms. This will help minimize the presence of dog hair in your laundry loads.
3. Brush your dog regularly: Regular brushing will help remove loose hair and reduce shedding. By keeping your dog’s coat well-maintained, you’ll prevent excess hair from ending up in the washer.
4. Wash pet bedding separately: Wash your pet’s bedding or blankets separately from your regular laundry loads. This will minimize the chances of hair transferring to other items in the washer.
5. Check pockets before washing: Empty the pockets of any clothing items belonging to your pet to avoid surprises like hairballs or treats making their way into the washer.
6. Use a pet hair removal tool: Invest in a pet hair removal tool, such as a pet hair roller or a rubber grooming brush, to remove excess hair from your clothes before throwing them into the washer.
7. Regularly clean your pet’s living areas: By keeping your pet’s living areas, such as their bedding or crate, clean and hair-free, you’ll reduce the amount of hair that can enter the washer.
8. Consider using a lint trap: Place a lint trap or a mesh laundry bag over the drain of your washer to catch any stray hair before it can clog the drain or get into the machine.

By implementing these preventative measures, you can significantly reduce the amount of dog hair finding its way into your washer, ensuring cleaner laundry and a more efficient washing process.

Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge to remove and prevent dog hair in your washer, you can say goodbye to the frustration of dealing with dog hair in your laundry!

**Note: It’s always important to refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations for your specific washer model when performing any cleaning or maintenance tasks.

Conclusion

Dealing with dog hair in your washer can be a common challenge for pet owners. However, with the right approach and a proactive mindset, you can easily tackle this issue and keep your laundry clean and hair-free.

In this article, we’ve discussed the common causes of dog hair in the washer and provided comprehensive steps to remove it. From preparing the washer for cleaning to removing hair from the tub, cleaning the filter and seal, and maintaining a clean washer drum, following these steps will ensure that your washer stays free from dog hair.

We’ve also explored tips for preventing dog hair from entering the washer in the first place, such as pre-treating clothes, designating pet-free zones, regular brushing of your dog’s coat, and washing pet bedding separately. By incorporating these preventative measures into your routine, you can minimize the amount of dog hair that ends up in your washer.

Remember, it’s crucial to consult your washer manual for specific instructions and precautions. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines will help ensure that you clean your washer safely and effectively.

By implementing the tips and techniques outlined in this article, you can maintain a clean and hair-free washer, while also saving time and effort in the laundry process. Enjoy fresh-smelling and hair-free clothes, and say goodbye to the frustration of finding dog hair in your washer!