Dog lovers know the joy of having a furry companion, but they also know the struggle against the seemingly endless shedding. Dog hair finds its way onto everything: clothes, furniture, carpets, and even into the air we breathe. A common question that arises is: can you simply toss dog hair-covered items into the washing machine? The answer, unfortunately, is not a straightforward yes. While it might seem like a quick and easy solution, putting dog hair directly into your washing machine can lead to several problems.
The Problem with Dog Hair in Your Washing Machine
Washing machines are designed to handle water, detergent, and small debris that comes off clothing during the washing process. Dog hair, however, is a different beast altogether. Its unique properties can cause significant issues within your appliance and plumbing.
Clogging Your Washing Machine
Dog hair clumps together when wet. Instead of dissolving or breaking down like dirt, it tends to stick to itself and other surfaces. This clumping action can lead to serious clogs in your washing machine’s drainpipes, pump, and other internal components.
The accumulation of dog hair restricts water flow, making your washing machine work harder. This can lead to reduced efficiency, longer wash cycles, and eventually, complete failure of certain parts. Repairing a washing machine clogged with dog hair can be costly, often requiring a professional plumber or appliance repair technician.
Spreading Hair to Other Clothes
Instead of eliminating the hair, the washing machine can sometimes exacerbate the problem. The tumbling action can loosen some of the hair, but not all of it gets washed away. Instead, some hair may remain in the drum and re-attach itself to other clothes during the same or subsequent wash cycles.
This means you might end up with dog hair on clothes that weren’t even initially covered in it. This defeats the purpose of washing and can be incredibly frustrating for pet owners who are trying to keep their clothes clean.
Biofilm Buildup
Dog hair, like any organic material, can contribute to the buildup of biofilm in your washing machine. Biofilm is a slimy layer of bacteria and other microorganisms that can thrive in damp environments like the inside of your washing machine.
This biofilm can lead to unpleasant odors and potentially even affect the hygiene of your clothes. It can also contribute to the corrosion of certain washing machine components over time. Therefore, introducing large amounts of dog hair into the washing machine environment increases the risk of biofilm formation.
Effective Strategies for Removing Dog Hair Before Washing
The key to successfully washing dog hair-covered items is to remove as much hair as possible before they enter the washing machine. This minimizes the risk of clogging and spreading hair to other clothes. Several methods can be employed to achieve this.
Using a Lint Roller or Pet Hair Remover
Lint rollers and specialized pet hair removers are excellent tools for removing surface hair from clothing and fabrics. These devices use sticky surfaces to pick up loose hair and debris. They are particularly effective on smoother fabrics like cotton and polyester.
Regular use of a lint roller can significantly reduce the amount of hair that ends up in your washing machine. It’s a quick and easy way to tackle the problem before it becomes a bigger issue.
Brushing or Shaking Out Clothes
Before tossing clothes into the washing machine, take them outside and give them a good shake. This will dislodge a significant amount of loose hair. Follow this up with a thorough brushing using a pet grooming brush or a stiff-bristled brush.
Brushing is particularly effective for removing hair that has become embedded in the fabric. Be sure to brush in the direction of the fibers to avoid damaging the material. This physical removal method is crucial for heavy-shedding breeds.
Pre-Soaking in a Hair-Dissolving Solution
For heavily soiled items, consider pre-soaking them in a solution designed to loosen and dissolve pet hair. There are commercially available products specifically formulated for this purpose, or you can create your own solution using household ingredients like vinegar and baking soda.
Soaking the items for at least 30 minutes allows the solution to penetrate the fibers and break down the hair. After soaking, rinse the items thoroughly before placing them in the washing machine.
Using a Vacuum Cleaner with Upholstery Attachment
A vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment can be surprisingly effective at removing dog hair from clothing and furniture. The suction power of the vacuum cleaner can lift embedded hairs that other methods might miss.
Use the upholstery attachment to gently vacuum the fabric, paying attention to areas with heavy hair accumulation. Be careful not to damage delicate fabrics with excessive suction.
Washing Machine Maintenance to Prevent Hair Buildup
Even with careful pre-treatment, some dog hair will inevitably make its way into your washing machine. Regular maintenance is crucial to prevent buildup and keep your machine running smoothly.
Regularly Clean Your Washing Machine
Run an empty wash cycle with hot water and a cup of white vinegar or a washing machine cleaner. This helps to dissolve any accumulated residue, including dog hair. Some washing machines have a self-cleaning cycle, which is ideal for this purpose.
Cleaning the washing machine monthly will prevent the buildup of hair and biofilm. This will also help maintain the overall hygiene of your appliance and prevent odors.
Check and Clean the Lint Trap Frequently
Most washing machines have a lint trap designed to catch lint and debris. This trap should be checked and cleaned regularly, especially if you frequently wash dog hair-covered items.
A clogged lint trap reduces the efficiency of your washing machine and can contribute to clogs in the drainpipes. Cleaning it is a simple but essential maintenance task.
Use a Washing Machine Hair Catcher Bag
These bags can be placed in your washing machine to catch hair during the wash cycle. They are inexpensive and easy to use. The bag traps the hair, preventing it from clogging the drainpipes and pump.
While not a complete solution, a hair catcher bag can significantly reduce the amount of hair that accumulates in your washing machine.
Choosing the Right Washing Machine
If you have pets, certain washing machine features can make dealing with dog hair easier. Consider these factors when purchasing a new washing machine.
Top-Load vs. Front-Load Washing Machines
Top-load washing machines, particularly those with agitators, tend to be better at removing dog hair than front-load washing machines. The agitator helps to dislodge the hair from the fabric.
However, front-load washing machines are generally more energy-efficient and gentler on clothes. If you prefer a front-load machine, be sure to pretreat clothes thoroughly before washing.
Machines with a “Pet Hair Removal” Cycle
Some washing machines now come with a “pet hair removal” cycle. These cycles typically use a combination of increased water levels, specialized wash motions, and extra rinse cycles to effectively remove pet hair from clothes.
If you have pets, a washing machine with this feature can be a worthwhile investment. It can save you time and effort in pretreating clothes.
Consider Washing Machine Filters
Some washing machines are designed with enhanced filtration systems that trap more pet hair than standard models. Consider upgrading to a machine with a robust filter system. These filters require regular cleaning but drastically reduce hair-related issues.
Special Considerations for Different Types of Fabric
The type of fabric also influences how dog hair is handled. Different materials retain hair differently, requiring different cleaning approaches.
Delicate Fabrics
Delicate fabrics such as silk and lace require a gentle approach. Avoid harsh brushing or vigorous shaking, as this can damage the fabric. Instead, use a lint roller or a soft brush to remove loose hair. Hand washing may be preferable to machine washing for these delicate items.
Heavy Fabrics
Heavy fabrics like denim and canvas tend to trap more hair. Pre-treating these items with a vacuum cleaner or a stiff brush is particularly important. You may also need to run an extra rinse cycle to remove all the hair.
Synthetic Fabrics
Synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon are generally less prone to attracting dog hair than natural fabrics. However, they can still accumulate hair through static electricity. Using a fabric softener during the wash cycle can help to reduce static and prevent hair from clinging to these fabrics.
Dealing with Dog Hair in Your Dryer
The dryer can also become a problem area when dealing with dog hair. The heat from the dryer can cause hair to become embedded in the fabric, making it even more difficult to remove.
Clean the Lint Trap After Every Use
The dryer’s lint trap is designed to catch lint and debris, including dog hair. Cleaning it after every use is crucial to prevent buildup and maintain dryer efficiency. A clogged lint trap can also pose a fire hazard.
Use Dryer Sheets
Dryer sheets can help to reduce static electricity and prevent hair from clinging to clothes in the dryer. They can also add a pleasant scent to your laundry.
Consider Using Dryer Balls
Dryer balls, especially wool dryer balls, can help to separate clothes and improve air circulation in the dryer. This can help to dislodge dog hair and reduce drying time. Dryer balls are a reusable and eco-friendly alternative to dryer sheets.
When to Call a Professional
Despite your best efforts, you may encounter situations where you need to call a professional.
If Your Washing Machine is Clogged
If your washing machine is clogged with dog hair and you are unable to clear it yourself, it’s best to call a plumber or appliance repair technician. They have the tools and expertise to safely remove the clog without damaging your machine.
If Your Washing Machine is Damaged
If your washing machine has been damaged by dog hair buildup, such as a broken pump or a malfunctioning motor, you will need to call a professional to repair or replace the damaged parts.
For Persistent Odors
If you are unable to eliminate unpleasant odors from your washing machine, even after thorough cleaning, a professional cleaning service may be able to help. They have specialized products and equipment to remove biofilm and other odor-causing substances.
In conclusion, while you can technically put dog hair in the washing machine, it’s generally not a good idea without proper precautions. The potential for clogging, spreading hair, and damaging your appliance far outweighs the convenience. By implementing the strategies outlined above – removing hair before washing, maintaining your machine, and choosing the right products – you can keep your clothes clean and your washing machine running smoothly, even with a shedding dog in the house. Remember, prevention is better than cure when it comes to dealing with dog hair in your laundry.
Is it safe to put dog hair covered items in the washing machine?
Yes, it is generally safe to wash items covered in dog hair in your washing machine, but there are precautions you should take. Washing heavily furred items directly can lead to clogged drains and reduced washing machine efficiency over time. Excess hair can accumulate in the drain pump or other parts of the machine, causing potential damage and requiring costly repairs.
To minimize these risks, it’s essential to pre-treat items by removing as much hair as possible before washing. Using a lint roller, pet hair remover brush, or even a vacuum cleaner on the items can significantly reduce the amount of hair that ends up in your washing machine. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the lint trap and periodically flushing the drain line, is also crucial to prevent hair build-up and maintain optimal machine performance.
What types of items are best to avoid washing in the machine if they’re covered in dog hair?
While most washable items can be cleaned in the washing machine with pre-treatment, certain materials and item types are best avoided if they have a significant amount of dog hair. Bulky items like comforters, thick blankets, or large pet beds can easily trap a large quantity of fur, increasing the risk of clogging and inefficient cleaning. Delicate fabrics, such as silk or lace, can also be damaged by the friction and agitation in the washing machine, especially when combined with abrasive dog hair.
Items that are heavily soiled with mud, dirt, or other debris alongside dog hair should also be avoided. These can overwhelm the washing machine’s filtration system and make it difficult to thoroughly clean the items. In these instances, it’s recommended to hand wash or professionally clean the items to avoid damaging your washing machine or the items themselves. Always consider the fabric type and the amount of hair present before deciding whether to machine wash.
How can I pre-treat items before washing to remove dog hair?
Effectively pre-treating items before washing is crucial to minimizing dog hair’s impact on your washing machine. A lint roller is a simple and effective tool for removing loose hair from clothes, blankets, and upholstery. For larger items or more stubborn hair, consider using a pet hair remover brush or glove, which utilizes rubber or silicone bristles to attract and lift the hair.
Another option is to use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment. This is particularly effective for larger items like dog beds or furniture covers. Go over the entire surface of the item multiple times to ensure you remove as much hair as possible. Remember, the more hair you remove beforehand, the less will end up in your washing machine, reducing the risk of clogs and improving cleaning performance.
What washing machine settings are best for washing items with dog hair?
When washing items that may still have some dog hair residue, selecting the right washing machine settings is essential. A cold water wash is generally recommended as hot water can sometimes cause the hair to cling more tightly to the fabric. A high water level setting is also beneficial as it allows the hair to float freely and be flushed away more effectively.
Choosing a delicate or gentle cycle with a slower spin speed can help prevent the hair from becoming embedded in the fibers of the fabric. Adding an extra rinse cycle is crucial to ensure that any remaining hair is thoroughly removed. Finally, consider using a fabric softener or dryer sheet designed to repel pet hair, which can help prevent the hair from sticking to the clothing during the washing and drying process.
How do I clean my washing machine after washing items with dog hair?
Cleaning your washing machine after washing items with dog hair is essential to prevent clogs and maintain optimal performance. Start by cleaning the lint trap, removing any accumulated hair and debris. Next, run an empty wash cycle with hot water and a cup of white vinegar or a washing machine cleaner specifically designed to remove hair and residue.
Check the rubber seal around the door for any trapped hair and wipe it clean. For top-loading machines, you can also remove and clean the fabric softener and bleach dispensers. Regularly cleaning your washing machine, ideally after each wash load containing pet hair, will prevent long-term build-up and ensure that your machine continues to operate efficiently.
Will a special laundry detergent help remove dog hair?
While no laundry detergent can completely eliminate dog hair, some detergents are formulated to assist in loosening and removing it from fabrics. Look for detergents with enzymes that specifically target proteins and organic matter, which can help break down the oils and dirt that bind dog hair to clothing. These detergents often contain ingredients that make the water wetter, allowing it to penetrate the fibers more effectively and release trapped hair.
Adding a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle can also help loosen dog hair and freshen fabrics. Vinegar acts as a natural fabric softener and can help prevent static cling, which can attract more hair. While specialized detergents and vinegar can improve hair removal, it is still crucial to pre-treat items and regularly clean your washing machine to minimize the amount of hair that accumulates.
Are there any washing machine accessories that can help with dog hair?
Yes, several washing machine accessories can help manage and remove dog hair during the wash cycle. Pet hair remover balls or discs, often made of silicone or rubber, can be added to the washing machine to attract and trap hair. These accessories work by creating static electricity that draws hair away from the fabric.
Another helpful accessory is a mesh laundry bag, which can be used to contain smaller items like socks or delicate clothing. This helps prevent hair from becoming entangled in these items and makes it easier to remove the hair after the wash. Regularly using these accessories in combination with pre-treatment and proper washing machine settings can significantly reduce the amount of hair that ends up in your washing machine’s drain system.