How to Get Dog Hair Out of Washing Machine Quickly & Easily

Dealing with dog hair in your washing machine can be frustrating. If you’ve ever found your clothes covered in fur after a wash, you know how stubborn pet hair can be. Luckily, there are simple steps you can take to keep your machine clean and your laundry fur-free.

You don’t have to let dog hair take over your washer or your clothes. With a few easy tricks and regular maintenance, you can remove hair effectively and prevent buildup. Keep reading to learn how to get dog hair out of your washing machine and keep your laundry fresh every time.

Understanding the Problem: Dog Hair in Washing Machines

Dog hair enters your washing machine mainly through your clothes, pet bedding, and blankets. During the wash cycle, hair detaches and floats in water but often clings to other fabrics or the machine’s inner components. This causes fur to redeposit on laundry, defeating the purpose of washing.

Static electricity intensifies hair clinginess, especially in dryers, but washing machines also trap fur in filters, door seals, and drum crevices. Over time, this buildup restricts water flow, reduces cleaning efficiency, and may cause odors.

Your machine type affects hair removal ease. Front-loaders usually contain more trapped hair in door seals, while top-loaders might scatter hair throughout the drum. Understanding these differences helps target cleaning methods effectively.

Recognizing how dog hair moves and accumulates in your washer clarifies why simple washing cycles often leave pet fur behind and why maintenance matters for consistent results.

Preparing Your Washing Machine for Cleaning

Start by removing all laundry to access every part of your washing machine. This step ensures your cleaning efforts reach hidden areas where dog hair accumulates.

Empty the Drum and Check Filters

Remove any visible dog hair from the drum using a lint roller or damp cloth. Open and inspect lint filters and drain pumps, clearing all trapped fur to prevent clogging. Check the door seals and crevices for hair buildup and wipe them thoroughly.

Gather Necessary Cleaning Supplies

Collect a lint roller, microfiber cloths, pet hair remover tools, mild detergent, white vinegar, and a small brush. These supplies target hair in various machine parts and help eliminate odors caused by pet fur trapped inside.

Effective Methods to Remove Dog Hair From Your Washing Machine

Removing dog hair from your washing machine keeps your laundry fresh and your machine running efficiently. Use specific methods to target hair trapped in different areas.

Using a Damp Cloth or Sponge

Start with a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the drum, door seal, and any visible surfaces. The moisture helps gather hair without spreading it. Focus on crevices where hair tends to lodge, such as rubber seals and corners. Rinse and wring the cloth frequently to avoid redepositing hair inside the machine.

Running a Cleaning Cycle with Vinegar or Baking Soda

Run an empty hot water cycle with one cup of white vinegar or half a cup of baking soda. These natural cleaners break down residue and loosen hidden hair in the drum and pipes. Vinegar acts as a deodorizer while baking soda tackles buildup. Repeat monthly or after washing pet bedding to maintain cleanliness and prevent hair accumulation.

Utilizing a Lint Roller or Vacuum Cleaner

Use a lint roller to pick up loose hairs inside the drum and around the door. A vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment efficiently removes hair from filters and tight spaces. Clean the lint filter regularly to ensure optimal suction and avoid hair buildup that impairs washing performance.

Preventive Tips to Reduce Dog Hair Build-Up

Reducing dog hair in your washing machine limits the need for frequent deep cleaning and keeps laundry fresher. Implement targeted habits before and after washing to minimize hair transfer.

Pre-Washing Pet Items

Remove loose fur on pet bedding, blankets, or clothing before washing by shaking or brushing. Use a lint roller or rubber glove to collect surface hairs efficiently. Wash heavily soiled pet items separately on a cold, gentle cycle to prevent excessive fur dispersal. Consider placing pet items in mesh laundry bags to contain hair during the wash. Using a pet hair remover tool on fabrics before loading the machine also cuts down on hair shedding inside the drum.

Regular Machine Maintenance and Cleaning

Clean your washing machine’s lint filter, seals, and drum weekly to avoid hair buildup. Wipe door seals and gasket areas with a damp microfiber cloth after every few washes to remove trapped hair. Run a monthly maintenance cycle with white vinegar or a washing machine cleaner to dissolve residue and loosen hidden hairs. Check and clean the drain pump filter regularly; accumulated fur can cause blockages and odors. Following these habits keeps your machine efficient and reduces hair transfer to laundry.

When to Call a Professional

You face persistent dog hair buildup despite regular cleaning if your washing machine shows signs of clogged filters or unusual odors. You notice mechanical issues such as strange noises or ineffective rinsing after multiple maintenance attempts. You find hair stuck in hard-to-reach components like the drain pump or internal hoses that you can’t access safely. You suspect damage to seals or internal parts caused by accumulated hair, affecting the machine’s performance. You encounter recurring problems even after following recommended cleaning cycles and using pet hair removal tools.

In these cases, contacting a professional technician ensures a thorough inspection and specialized cleaning that prevents further damage. You avoid voiding warranties or causing costly repairs by seeking expert service for complex internal issues related to dog hair accumulation. You ensure your machine operates efficiently and extends its lifespan when professionals handle delicate repairs and deep cleaning tasks.

Conclusion

Keeping your washing machine free of dog hair is key to maintaining clean laundry and prolonging your machine’s life. With regular cleaning and a few simple habits, you can prevent fur buildup and avoid frustrating odors or mechanical issues.

If you notice persistent problems despite your efforts, don’t hesitate to contact a professional. They can tackle tough hair clogs and ensure your machine stays in top shape.

By staying proactive and consistent, you’ll enjoy fresher clothes and a more efficient washing routine every time.