To effectively remove pet hair from various floor types, use a vacuum with a pet hair attachment, rubber gloves, or a lint roller for optimal results.
Pet hair clings stubbornly to floors, requiring different approaches for carpets, hardwood, tile and other surfaces. This guide reveals the most effective tools and techniques for every flooring material in your home.
Best Tools for Pet Hair Removal
The right equipment makes pet hair removal faster and more effective. Consider these essential tools:
- Rubber brooms – The static charge lifts hair from hard surfaces
- Lint rollers – Perfect for quick cleanups on furniture and stairs
- Vacuum with pet attachments – Look for models with specialized pet hair tools
- Microfiber mops – Trap hair when damp mopping hard floors
- Squeegees – Surprisingly effective on carpeted stairs
Floor-Specific Pet Hair Removal Techniques
Carpeted Floors
Carpets trap pet hair deep in fibers. For best results:
- Vacuum slowly with a high-powered vacuum using the beater bar
- Go over high-traffic areas multiple times in different directions
- Use a rubber broom or squeegee to pull up stubborn hair
- For severe cases, try a carpet rake before vacuuming
Hardwood Floors
Hard surfaces allow hair to slide around. Effective methods include:
- Dry microfiber mop first to collect loose hair
- Follow with a damp mop using a pet-safe cleaner
- Use electrostatic dusters in corners and along baseboards
- Vacuum weekly with a hardwood floor attachment
Tile and Linoleum
Smooth surfaces make pet hair removal easier:
| Tool | Best Use |
|---|---|
| Rubber broom | Large open areas |
| Damp mop | Final cleaning after hair removal |
| Handheld vacuum | Grout lines and corners |
Preventing Pet Hair Buildup
Regular Grooming
Brush your pet frequently to remove loose hair before it sheds. According to COIT cleaning experts, daily brushing can reduce household hair by up to 90%.
Strategic Flooring Choices
If replacing floors, consider:
- Low-pile carpets with tight weaves
- Hardwood with matte finishes that show less hair
- Large-format tiles with minimal grout lines
Entryway Control
Place washable mats at all entrances to catch hair and dirt. The ByPurify team recommends using two mats – one outside and one inside each door.
Special Situations
Excessive Shedders
For heavy shedders, combine multiple methods:
- Rubber broom to gather hair into piles
- Vacuum with maximum suction
- Follow with damp microfiber mop
- Use lint roller for final touch-ups
Allergy Sufferers
Those with allergies should:
- Vacuum daily with a HEPA filter model
- Damp mop hard floors every other day
- Use an air purifier to capture airborne dander
- Wash pet bedding weekly in hot water