How To Get Dog Hair Out Of Washer Machine

How to Get Dog Hair Out of Your Washing Machine: A Comprehensive Guide

Meta Description: Frustrated with dog hair clogging your washing machine? This comprehensive guide provides effective methods to remove pet hair from your washer, keeping it clean and efficient. Learn how to tackle this common pet owner problem!

Dealing with excessive dog hair is a common woe for pet owners. While shedding is a natural process, the aftermath can be a real hassle, especially when it comes to your washing machine. Finding your appliance clogged with fur can be frustrating, but don't worry! This guide provides simple yet effective solutions to get rid of that pesky dog hair and keep your washing machine running smoothly.

Understanding the Problem: Why Dog Hair Clogs Washing Machines

Dog hair, especially from breeds with thick coats like Golden Retrievers or Huskies, is remarkably good at clinging to fabrics and finding its way into unexpected places. The washing machine's inner workings, with their numerous crevices and filters, are prime real estate for accumulating pet hair. This build-up can lead to several issues:

• Reduced washing efficiency: Hair clogs can impede water flow and prevent proper cleaning of your laundry.
• Damage to machine components: Accumulated hair can wrap around the impeller, causing damage and potential malfunctions.
• Unpleasant odors: Trapped hair can harbor bacteria and mold, leading to unpleasant smells.
• Clogged drain: Hair can block the drain, resulting in slow drainage or even a complete blockage.

Effective Methods to Remove Dog Hair from Your Washing Machine

Before we start, remember to disconnect the power supply to your washing machine for safety reasons.

1. The Lint Trap: Your First Line of Defense

Most washing machines have a lint trap, often located near the door seal or at the bottom of the machine (check your owner’s manual). Regularly cleaning this trap will prevent a large build-up of pet hair. Simply remove the trap, carefully remove the hair, and rinse it before replacing.

2. Visual Inspection and Manual Removal

With the machine unplugged, carefully inspect the inside of the drum and the surrounding areas. You may find clumps of hair easily visible and removable by hand. Use a brush with stiff bristles (like a toilet brush or a dedicated pet hair brush) to remove any stubborn hair from the drum's crevices and around the impeller.

3. Deep Cleaning with a Vacuum Cleaner

A vacuum cleaner, particularly one with a hose attachment or crevice tool, is an excellent tool for reaching those hard-to-reach spots. Carefully vacuum the inside of the drum, paying close attention to areas where hair tends to accumulate. You can also vacuum around the door seal and other external components.

4. Using Cleaning Tools: The Extra Mile

For more thorough cleaning, consider using specialized tools:

• A long-handled brush: This can help reach difficult-to-access areas inside the machine.
• Tweezers or a pair of pliers: These can help remove stubborn clumps of hair wrapped around the impeller. Use caution and avoid damaging any components.

5. Cleaning the Drain Filter: Addressing the Root of the Problem

Your washing machine's drain filter is a common location for hair clogs. Consult your owner's manual for the filter's location and how to access it safely. Remove the filter and clean any accumulated hair and debris. You might be surprised by how much hair is lurking there!

6. The "Empty Washer" Run: Final Cleanup

After cleaning, run an empty wash cycle with hot water and a cup of white vinegar to remove any remaining residue and freshen the machine. This will also help sanitize the appliance and eliminate any lingering odors.

Preventing Future Hair Buildups

Preventing hair build-up is far easier than dealing with it later. Consider these preventative measures:

• Regular lint trap cleaning: As mentioned earlier, make this a habit.
• Use a mesh laundry bag: Enclose your pet's bedding and heavily shedding items in a mesh laundry bag to contain loose hair.
• Pre-treat heavily shedding items: Use a lint roller or pet hair remover tool on heavily shedding items before washing them.
• Regular washing machine cleaning: Perform regular cleaning cycles to prevent hair from accumulating.

By following these simple steps and incorporating preventative measures, you can significantly reduce the amount of dog hair in your washing machine, ensuring its longevity and efficiency, leaving you with more time to enjoy your furry friend.