How to Get Pet Hair Off Your Couch, Clothes and Car

If you share your home with a dog or cat, pet hair is part of the deal. But it doesn't have to cover your couch, your black pants and the back seat of your car. Here's how to remove pet hair from every surface, and how to cut down on shedding in the first place.

Removing pet hair from the couch

• Rubber glove trick: put on a damp rubber glove and wipe across the fabric. Hair clumps together so you can pick it up.
• Lint roller: great for quick touch-ups on cushions and armrests. A lint roller set with 120 extra-sticky sheets keeps you stocked.
• Vacuum with an upholstery tool: use a rubber or motorized pet tool for deep cleaning once a week.
• Prevention: cover your pet's favorite spot with a washable throw, like our fleece throw blanket, and wash it weekly.

Removing pet hair from clothes

• Roll clothes with a lint roller before you head out the door.
• Run clothes through a 10-minute dryer cycle on low or no heat before washing. It loosens hair so it collects in the lint trap.
• Add a dryer sheet or wool dryer balls to help release hair.
• Clean the washer drum and dryer lint trap after pet-heavy loads.

Removing pet hair from the car

• A rubber squeegee or pumice-style pet hair stone pulls embedded hair out of carpet and seats.
• Follow up with a vacuum and crevice tool.
• Prevent it next time with a seat cover or a blanket your dog rides on. Check our travel gear for car-friendly options.

Removing pet hair from carpets and rugs

• Drag a rubber broom across the carpet to pull up hair before vacuuming.
• Vacuum slowly, in multiple directions.
• Sprinkle a little baking soda first to help loosen hair and freshen the rug.

Reduce shedding at the source

The best way to fight pet hair is to catch it before it hits the furniture.

• Brush regularly: a few minutes a few times a week makes a big difference, and daily during heavy shedding seasons in spring and fall. A deshedding comb pulls loose undercoat.
• Try a grooming glove: many cats and anxious dogs who dislike brushes are happy to be petted with a deshedding glove.
• Feed a balanced diet: a good diet supports a healthy coat. If shedding suddenly increases, or you see bald patches or irritated skin, check with your vet.
• Bathe as recommended: occasional baths with a pet shampoo help release loose hair, but don't overdo it.

FAQ

What's the fastest way to get dog hair off a couch?

A damp rubber glove or rubber squeegee gathers hair quickly, then a lint roller handles what's left.

How do I keep pet hair off my clothes?

Brush your pet regularly, keep a lint roller by the door, and run clothes through a short no-heat dryer cycle before washing.

Why is my dog shedding so much?

Seasonal coat changes are normal, especially in spring and fall. Sudden heavy shedding, bald spots or itchy skin are worth a vet visit.

Find brushes, gloves and more in our grooming collection, with free US shipping.