How To Clean Dog Hair From Washing Machine

So, your washing machine has become a hairy mess, huh? Welcome to the club! If you’ve ever tossed a blanket, towel, or (heaven forbid) your pup’s bed into the washer, you know exactly what I’m talking about.

Dog hair has a magical way of clinging to everything, and sadly, your washing machine is not immune. But don’t worry! I’m here to help you reclaim your machine and save your clothes from the wrath of dog hair.

Let’s dive into some easy (and effective) ways to get your washer sparkling clean again.

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1. Prevention Is Key: Shake It Out First

Let’s be real—cleaning your washing machine is no one’s idea of fun. So why not prevent the problem in the first place? Before you toss anything dog-related into the washer, give it a good shake or vacuum it first.

Take the blanket or bed outside and shake it like you’re trying to settle an argument. Or use a lint roller or vacuum to pick up the fur. The less hair you put in the washer, the less you’ll have to deal with later.

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(Oh, and FYI: Don’t use your household vacuum for this unless you’re cool with dog hair clogging it too.)

2. Run an Empty Cycle

Already dealing with a fur explosion in your machine? Time to go on the offensive. After a hairy load, run an empty cycle with hot water and a cup of white vinegar.

Why vinegar? Because it’s a natural cleaner that helps loosen any lingering hair while also deodorizing your machine. Bonus: It’s cheap and already in your kitchen.

Let the cycle do its thing, then wipe down the drum afterward. You’ll be amazed at how much hair comes out (and probably grossed out too).

3. Clean Out the Filter (Yes, Your Washer Has One)

Did you even know your washing machine has a filter? If not, don’t feel bad—you’re not alone. Most front-loaders and some top-loaders have a little lint trap or filter that collects debris. Dog hair loves this spot.

Here’s how to deal with it:

  1. Check your washer’s manual to find the filter.
  2. Remove it carefully (there might be water in there, so have a towel ready).
  3. Clean out all the hair and gunk.

If you’ve never cleaned your filter before… brace yourself. It’s not pretty, but it’s necessary.

4. Wipe Down the Drum and Door

Dog hair doesn’t just wash away—it sticks. After every load, grab a damp cloth or sponge and wipe down the inside of the drum and the rubber door seal.

That rubber seal? It’s like a secret hideout for hair. Pull it back gently and wipe away the fur hiding in there. Trust me, it’s there.

Pro tip: Use a dryer sheet to help pick up hair from the drum. It’s oddly satisfying and way more effective than you’d think.

5. Use a Hair-Catching Gadget

If your washing machine constantly looks like a dog salon, it’s time to call in reinforcements. Enter hair-catching gadgets.

Products like laundry balls or mesh bags are designed to grab hair during the wash cycle so it doesn’t clog up your machine. Toss one or two of these bad boys in with your load and watch the magic happen.

Are they 100% effective? No, but they make a noticeable difference. IMO, they’re worth the small investment.

6. Dryer Sheets Aren’t Just for the Dryer

Here’s a weird but genius hack: Toss a dryer sheet into your washer.

Dryer sheets have anti-static properties that help loosen and trap hair during the wash. You’ll still need to clean the drum afterward, but it’ll be way less of a nightmare.

7. Follow Up with the Dryer

Once you’ve dealt with the washing machine, don’t forget about the dryer. Hair that didn’t stick to the washer is now lurking in your dryer.

  • Clean the lint trap after every load. It’s your first line of defense against dog hair buildup.
  • Use wool dryer balls to help loosen and collect hair. They’re reusable and eco-friendly, so it’s a win-win.

8. Schedule Regular Deep Cleans

Yeah, I know—cleaning your washing machine isn’t exactly fun weekend plans. But regular maintenance saves you from bigger headaches later.

Once a month, run an empty cycle with hot water and vinegar (or a washing machine cleaner). Wipe down the drum, door, and filter while you’re at it. Think of it as self-care for your appliance.

Wrapping It Up

Living with dogs means accepting a certain level of chaos (and fur), but that doesn’t mean your washing machine has to suffer. With these tips, you’ll keep your washer clean, your clothes fur-free, and your sanity intact.

So, next time your pup’s favorite blanket needs a wash, you’ll know exactly what to do. Now go forth, conquer the fur, and enjoy those tail wags—you’ve earned them. 😉

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