What to Put in Your Washer to Remove Pet Hair

Reusable pet-hair catcher discs or laundry balls can help collect loose fur as clothes move through the wash. Add them directly to the drum according to the product instructions, and avoid overloading the washer so water and fabric can circulate freely.

Remove as much hair as possible with a lint roller, rubber glove, or clothes brush before loading the machine. For heavily covered garments, run them through a no-heat dryer cycle for 10 minutes, clean the lint filter, and then wash them.

Measure a quality liquid detergent for the load size and fabric type; using extra detergent can leave residue that traps fur. Adding up to 1/2 cup of white vinegar to the rinse compartment may relax fibers and release hair, but never combine vinegar with chlorine bleach.

Select the highest water level permitted by the garment-care labels and use an extra-rinse cycle when available. Wash pet-covered items separately from towels or fleece, which can attract transferred hair, and leave several inches of open drum space.

Wipe the drum and door seal with a damp microfiber cloth after removing the laundry. Check the washer’s drain-pump filter monthly—or more often in a pet-heavy household—and follow the manufacturer’s directions before opening it.

For additional routines and practical fur-control ideas, visit this guide to living comfortably with less pet hair.