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Get Dog Hair Out Of Your Carpet


December 1, 2023

Get Dog Hair Out Of Your Carpet

TL;DR: Dog hair sticking to your carpet can be a challenge, but it’s essential for your home’s cleanliness and your health to keep it in check. Dog hair clings to carpet fibers due to the hair’s structure and the carpet’s texture. Regular maintenance, including thorough vacuuming with pet-specific tools and techniques, is crucial. Specialty tools like rubber brooms and carpet rakes, as well as DIY solutions such as fabric softener and water, can help. For deep cleaning, consider renting a carpet cleaner or opting for professional steam cleaning, recommended once or twice a year, depending on your dog’s shedding and indoor activity. In Bakersfield, CA, Safari Carpet Cleaning offers expert services to keep your carpets clean and fresh.

If you’re a dog owner, you’ve probably already made peace with the fact that shedding is now a part of your everyday life. It sticks to everything from clothes to carpets and doesn’t seem to want to let go. Those loose bits of fur simply have a way of fusing with the fibers of your carpet.`

However, cleaning your home regularly isn’t just about looking good. Too much pet hair flying about can be bad for your health as well. It can trigger your allergies or even lead to an asthma attack. That is just another reason to keep those carpets hair-free.

You might be struggling to keep up with the constant fluff, but don’t worry. You’ll find in this article some practical tips on how to get dog hair out of carpet effectively, regardless of whether your rug is a magnet for your pup’s fuzzy coat or you’re trying to impress some guests.

Why Dog Hair Sticks in Carpets

Have you ever noticed how your dog’s hair seems to cling to the carpet like it’s got a mind of its own? Well, the reason behind this clingy behavior boils down to the structure of both the hair and the carpet fibers. Dog hair has tiny scales on its surface, and when it sheds, these scales grip onto the fibers of your carpet, especially if it has a looped or high pile texture.

That’s why you’re having so much trouble getting rid of that loose fur with a simple once-over from your vacuum cleaner. But it’s not all your dog’s fault, the type of carpet you have also plays a role in this. Thick, fluffy carpets are dog fur traps, almost absorbing every loose strand of pet hair. While tightly woven or low-pile carpets don’t allow the hair to penetrate as deeply, they can also cling to pet hair, especially if they have a very textured surface.

Daily Maintenance Strategies

If you’re part of the 62% of Americans who own a pet, you’re more than familiar with the daily struggle of trying to de-shed every part of your home, especially the carpets. Short of giving your hairy companion a buzz cut, there’s no way to stop it. All you can do is try to keep on top of it by trying the following tips.

  • Regular Vacuuming. This is your first line of defense against pet fur trying to fuze itself with your carpets. You don’t need to do it daily, but a few times a week should keep that fur in check. However, not just any vacuum will do. You want to look for a model with strong suction, a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, and attachments designed for pet hair, like a motorized brush head. 
  • Vacuum Attachments. If you have a particularly furry dog, do yourself a favor and get a grooming attachment for your vacuum. These often have rubber bristles or textured pads that can grip the hair better than a standard suction nozzle.
  • Good Vacuuming Technique. Make sure you vacuum in multiple directions so you can loosen and lift the dog hair that’s penetrated your carpet. Overlap your strokes, and don’t rush it. Spend more time vacuuming the spots where your pet likes to hang out. They usually have more hair, and you might need a couple of passes to get it all.

Specialty Tools and Products

Now, you’ve got some pretty nifty tools at your disposal for tackling that stubborn dog hair in your carpets. Rubber brooms have bristles that create static and lift pet hair right out of the fibers. Just a few swipes, and you’ll see clumps of hair gathering with ease. 

Then there’s the carpet rake, which might look like something from your garden shed, but it’s designed to reach deeper into your carpet, pulling up dog fur without a fuss.

For those tight spots and furniture, a handheld vacuum with a motorized brush head can suck up hair in a jiffy. And let’s not forget the cleaning products that pack a punch specifically against pet hair. Enzymatic cleaners work wonders by breaking down the proteins in the hair.

Deep Cleaning Solutions

Sure, a vacuum designed for pet hair is a good starting point, but sometimes you need something with more oomph. A squeegee can work wonders – just drag it across the carpet to gather hair into clumps for easier pickup. 

DIY Cleaner

If you’re up for mixing your own concoction, a solution of fabric softener and water sprayed lightly on the carpet can help loosen up any pet hair. Let it sit, then vacuum again. This also gets rid of static, making the hair less clingy and easier to vacuum up.

Renting A Carpet Cleaner

Sometimes, your plain old vacuum machine just doesn’t cut. If you want to truly suck up every strand of dog hair from the carpet, maybe try renting some heavy-duty carpet cleaners. They often have stronger suction and specialized attachments that can make easy work of that extra fur clinging to your rugs.

Steam Cleaning

But if you’re not up to putting in the extra elbow grease, here’s a game-changer – professional steam cleaning. You might think your vacuum or rented cleaner is doing the job, but steam cleaning gets down to the nitty-gritty like no other method. It uses high-temperature water to reach deep into the carpet fibers and loosen up even the most stubborn hairs. 

Not only does it deal with dog fur, but it’s also great for getting rid of pet dander, which can be bad for your lungs. It also cleans and sanitizes your carpets, leaving them looking and smelling fresher. The high heat is very good at removing most allergens, so you’ll be making life easier for anyone in your family who has allergies.  

But how often should you bring in the professionals? That depends on a few factors – the number of dogs you have, how much they shed, and whether they spend a lot of time indoors. As a general rule, it’s a good idea to call in the pros once or twice a year. But if your pooch is a heavy shedder, you might have to leave room for an extra visit.

Keep Your Carpets Clean in Bakersfield, CA

Learning how to get dog hair out of carpet is all about sticking to a regular maintenance routine and occasionally giving them a deep clean. If you want to keep your living space inviting and cozy for both you and your furry friends, you need to keep up with vacuuming and cleaning.

And for those times when the pet hair situation seems a bit too overwhelming, don’t hesitate to call in the pros. Our team at Safari Carpet Cleaning is here to help you deal with even the most stubborn hair and dirt, leaving your carpets looking like new. 

We use top-of-the-line equipment and eco-friendly products to leave your carpets looking pristine every time. But we do more than just carpets. So, get in touch with us today for top-notch cleaning services, and let us make your place shine! 

FAQ’s

How can I prevent dog hair from sticking to my carpet in the first place?

Preventing dog hair from sticking involves regular grooming of your dog to reduce shedding, using pet-specific products like shedding brushes, and maintaining proper humidity levels in your home to reduce static electricity that makes hair cling to carpets. You can also create designated pet-free zones in your home.

How often should I vacuum my carpets to control dog hair?

Vacuuming frequency depends on factors like your dog’s shedding, carpet type, and traffic. However, as a general guideline, vacuum at least 2-3 times a week, focusing more on high-traffic areas and your pet’s favorite spots. Use a vacuum with strong suction, HEPA filters, and pet hair attachments for better results.

Can I use household cleaning products to remove dog hair from my carpets?

While household products like fabric softener mixed with water can help loosen pet hair, it’s essential to choose products that are safe for pets and humans. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as they may leave residues harmful to your pet. Consider enzymatic cleaners designed for pet hair removal.

When should I consider professional carpet cleaning for pet hair removal?

You should consider professional carpet cleaning when pet hair buildup becomes challenging to manage with regular vacuuming and DIY methods. Factors like the number of dogs, shedding intensity, and indoor time determine the frequency. As a rule of thumb, schedule professional cleaning once or twice a year to maintain a clean and healthy living environment.