Keeping and loving a pet is easy for many homeowners, but cleaning their shedding may require more patience. It’s normal and healthy for your pet to shed, which is common during spring. This happens as your pet’s way of preparing for warmer temperatures.
Some people may opt for anti-shed products, but you need to waste your money on that. Here are five pet hair removal tips you could try with basic household items that you may already have:
1. Vacuuming Your Couch
One of the most common techniques for getting rid of pet hair on furniture is the use of vacuums. Naturally, when pets spend some time on your furniture, their hair will accumulate with time. Regular vacuuming will prevent buildup.
Source: ShutterstockEnsure that the furniture isn’t moved during the exercise, so you don’t miss any trapped pet hair. Some experts say vacuuming should be done at least once every two or three days to avoid hair accumulation.
You should pay more attention to areas where your pets spend most of their time when doing the work. Once you have finished cleaning the furniture, ensure that you remove the excess pet hair on the appliance.
If your vacuum isn’t cleaned properly after removing pet hair on furniture, it may produce bad odors. You can avoid that by throwing away its bag when nearly full. Don’t wait until it starts bulging for you to dump it.
Another effective way of preventing bad odors after using a vacuum to remove pet hair on your couch is using a tablespoon of baking soda to a new bag. On the other hand, if you’re using a bagless vacuum, its container should be emptied after every cleaning exercise.
2. Put on Rubber Gloves
Many people have rubber gloves in their homes. It’s one of the easiest ways to get rid of pet hair on your furniture. Whether they’re disposable or reusable, rubber gloves can be helpful when it comes to the cleaning exercise.
There are several reasons why some experts recommend the use of rubber gloves. The material can build up static electricity, which can attract pet hair on furniture. Some people find it more effective than when using lint rollers or tape. You can use one pair of gloves to get rid of the hair multiple times.
Source: ShutterstockThe removal of pet hair using rubber gloves isn’t magic, it’s science. Friction creates static energy that attracts hair, lint, and other types of debris. You may need to dampen the gloves, depending on the fabric content of your couch.
If it becomes too wet, it may be ineffective when it comes to removing pet hair. Water may cause damages to some furniture materials. Therefore, before you start using the gloves, test its effectiveness on a small section, preferably the back or bottom.
If the test becomes successful, then you can go ahead and ditch the pet hair. Once you have put the gloves on, run your hand over the surface of your couch. Some people consider the method to be more effective than a balloon.
3. Cover Your Furniture
The best way of ensuring your furniture is free from pet hair is by protecting them using some covers. It may sound old-fashioned, but the fact is, there’re a lot of options for you nowadays. For example, you can opt for washable blankets, slipcovers, or throws.
Source: ShutterstockPets have their favorite spots to lay, and the couch is one of them. Once you have identified the spot, ensure it’s covered with something that’s easy to clean and maintain.
4. Use a Squeegee
Although vacuuming is common when it comes to getting rid of pet hair in your home, it may be ineffective. If that happens, consider using a squeegee. First, take a tool with a long handle and move it back and forth across your furniture.
Source: ShutterstockMany people use the window squeegees because the rubber attached to them can help loosen the stubborn layers of pet hair that may build up on your couch. Repeat the procedure until you have gotten rid of all the hair.
5. Packing Tape Can Also Be Helpful
Packing tape is a common household item in most homes and can be useful when it comes to preventing the buildup of pet hair. If you have a tight budget, consider using the technique.
Unlike some types of tapes, the chances of leaving residues after using packing tapes are low. You only need to wrap the tape around your hand with the adhesive side out and press your couch firmly. You’ll need to change the tape from time to time to ensure effectiveness.
