Pet hair can cling to fabrics and migrate into washing machine components, leading to redeposits on freshly cleaned laundry. This guide walks through a practical, step‑by‑step method to remove hair from the drum, hoses, and filters using common tools and targeted products. Following these steps helps improve washing performance and keeps clothes hair‑free after cycles.
Quick Answer
Run a hot wash cycle with an empty drum, using a drum cleaning product or whitening-safe cleaner, then scrub the drum with a dedicated brush. Clean the lint trap, door seal, and detergent dispenser, and finish with a wipe‑down of exposed surfaces. Repeat weekly or after heavy shedding periods for best results.
What You’ll Need
- washing machine drum cleaning brush silicone
- washing machine pet hair catcher filter
- drum cleaning tablets for washing machine pet hair
- front load washer lint brush for pet hair removal
- microfiber dryer lint brush for washing machine pet hair
Before You Start
Prepare a clean workspace around the machine and unplug the unit before disassembly. Remove clothing and towels from the drum to access hidden hair deposits. Wear gloves if you handle the door seal or hoses, as grime may be present. Plan for a 30–60 minute session, depending on the machine model and the level of shedding. Ensure the room is well-ventilated if using chemical cleaners.
Step-By-Step: How To Remove Pet Hair From A Washing Machine
- Empty the drum and wipe down the interior with a dry microfiber cloth to pick up loose hair.
- Remove the gasket around the door and inspect it for hair clusters; lift and pull hair from the folds using a silicone drum cleaning brush.
- Apply a drum cleaning product or a mild cleaner along the inner wall and run a hot wash cycle with the drum empty.
- While the cycle runs, use the front load washer lint brush to collect leftover hair from the door seal and rim.
- Open the detergent dispenser and rinse thoroughly; remove any trapped hair from the compartments with a damp cloth.
- Wipe the interior drum again after the cycle finishes; run a second short rinse if a residue remains.
- Inspect hoses and the pump filter if accessible, removing visible hair with a microfiber brush or tweezers as needed.
- Place the washing machine’s lint catcher or pet hair filter in the intended position and ensure a secure fit to prevent redeposits.
- Run an additional test cycle with towels or rags to ensure the drum is hair‑free before loading clothes again.
- Clean the lint tray in the dryer if your setup uses a combined drying function, removing any hair buildup from the lint screen.
- Schedule regular maintenance: repeat these steps weekly during peak shedding and after long hair seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Fix | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair redeposits on clothes | Residual hair inside drum or gasket | Repeat cleaning cycle with drum cleaner; scrub gasket folds | Weekly cleaning during heavy shedding |
| Bad odor after washing | Hair and residue trapped in dispenser or seal | Clean dispenser and seal; run hot cycle with cleaner | Keep dispenser dry and clean between loads |
| Clothes still hairy after wash | Lint trap or filter clogged | Clean filter; remove hair from inlet and outlet areas | Clean filters after heavy shedding loads |
| Water leaks around door | Damaged or stretched gasket | Inspect and replace gasket if needed | Handle gasket carefully and remove hair buildup |
Common Mistakes
- Using overly harsh chemicals that can damage seals
- Forgetting to clean the detergent dispenser and the drain pump filter
- Not removing all hair from the door seal before starting a cycle
- Rushing the process without testing with a small load afterward
Tips For Best Results
- Establish a routine: clean the drum and seals after the last heavy shedding cycle of the week.
- Use a silicone drum cleaning brush to safely lift hair from crevices without scratching surfaces.
- Pair cleaning with a dedicated pet hair catcher filter to reduce redeposits in future cycles.
- Combine with a microfiber dryer lint brush to remove hair that clings to fabrics entering the washer.
- For persistent hair, run a second cleaning cycle with a tablet formulated for pet hair removal inside the drum.
Call A Professional
If the washing machine shows persistent leaks, unusual noises, or cannot complete a cycle after thorough cleaning, contact a licensed appliance technician. Seek professional help if seals or hoses appear damaged, or if the built‑in pump filter is inaccessible or blocked beyond simple cleaning.
FAQ
Can I use household cleaners to remove pet hair from the washing machine?
Yes, but opt for milder cleaners or drum cleaning tablets designed for appliances to avoid damaging seals or coatings.
How often should I clean my washing machine to remove pet hair?
Clean the drum, seals, and filters weekly during peak shedding and after heavy laundry loads.
Will pet hair cause odor in my machine?
Hair buildup can trap moisture and odors; regular cleaning helps prevent this.
Are there specific tools I should use to remove hair more effectively?
Yes, silicone drum brushes and microfiber lint tools are effective for lifting and collecting hair from hard‑to‑reach areas.
Is it safe to use drum cleaning tablets?
Drum cleaning tablets are generally safe when used as directed; ensure the product is compatible with your washer model.
Buying Guide
When selecting tools and accessories to combat pet hair in a washing machine, consider size, compatibility, and ease of use. Look for tools that reach the drum gasket folds and interior walls without scratching surfaces. A dedicated drum cleaning brush made of silicone tends to be gentler and more effective on tight crevices. Consider a pet hair catcher filter designed for your washer model to minimize hair transfer during cycles. If you frequently deal with shedding, keep drum cleaning tablets on hand for quick maintenance. For households with multiple pets, establishing a regular schedule and using combined tools (brush, filter, and lint tools) can significantly reduce hair redeposit issues. Do you need a compact set for a small laundry area or a comprehensive kit for a large household? Choosing the right balance of tools helps maintain cleaner laundry and a happier appliance.