To remove pet hair from furniture, use a rubber brush, a damp rubber glove or a reusable pet hair roller, then vacuum. For car seats, a rubber brush or pumice-style pet hair tool works best on fabric. For clothes, roll them before washing, run a short dryer cycle on low heat first, and clean the lint trap. Regular brushing of your pet reduces the problem at the source.
If you share your home with a dog or cat, pet hair is part of life. The good news is that a few simple tools and habits keep it under control.
How to remove pet hair from a sofa or chair
- Start with a rubber tool: run a rubber brush or a slightly damp rubber glove over the fabric. The hair clumps together and is easy to pick up.
- Use a reusable roller: a reusable pet hair remover roller collects hair without sticky sheets.
- Vacuum: finish with the upholstery tool of your vacuum.
- Protect: cover your pet's favourite spot with a washable blanket.
How to remove pet hair from a car
- Use a stiff rubber brush or a static pet hair removal brush on fabric seats and floor mats, brushing in one direction.
- Vacuum after brushing, with a crevice tool for the seams.
- Use a seat cover or a blanket on the back seat for future trips. Our guide on how to travel safely with your dog in the car has more tips.
How to remove pet hair from clothes and laundry
- Shake clothes outside and use a roller before washing.
- Run a 10-minute dryer cycle on low or no heat before washing: it loosens hair, which collects in the lint trap.
- Wash as usual, then clean the lint trap and the washer drum.
- Keep a small roller near the door for last-minute touch-ups.
How to remove pet hair from carpets and rugs
Pull a rubber broom or squeegee across the carpet: it lifts hair that vacuums often miss. Then vacuum slowly, in several directions. A light mist of water on the carpet can help the hair clump together.
Reduce shedding at the source
The less loose hair on your pet, the less on your furniture. Brush your dog or cat two or three times a week, and every day during spring and fall shedding. Read how to choose a deshedding brush for your dog or cat. Tools like a self-cleaning slicker brush or silicone bath gloves remove loose hair before it falls.
Quick weekly routine
- Brush your pet: 10 minutes, two or three times a week
- Roll the sofa and your pet's favourite spots
- Wash pet blankets and bed covers
- Vacuum floors and rugs
- Clean the car seats after long trips
Find all our hair removal tools in the grooming and hair removal and cleaning and odor control collections. Every order ships free across Canada.
Frequently asked questions
Do reusable pet hair rollers work as well as sticky rollers?
On sofas, beds and most fabrics, yes, and you do not need to buy refills. On very fine fabrics, a sticky roller can still help for the last hairs.
Is it normal for my pet to shed all year?
Many indoor pets shed a little all year, with more in spring and fall. Sudden heavy shedding or bald spots are a reason to see your vet.
Which fabrics attract the least pet hair?
Leather, faux leather and tightly woven fabrics are easier to clean than velvet, chenille or wool.
Written by Hicham, Zootly. Practical tips for pet owners.