Tips and tricks for a dog hair-free home

Having a dog is obviously a joy, but the trail of dog hair they leave around the home? Not so much.

Granted, not every dog shed hair in the same way. But keeping your living spaces free from breeds that do shed a lot of hair can feel like an endless battle. With the right approach, it can be manageable. Here are some tried and tested tips to effectively remove and prevent dog hair from taking over your home.

Grooming

Now, before you say it, we know we are dog groomers, so of course we will recommend grooming! But it’s also because this is another reason why regular dog grooming is absolutely essential when it comes to excessive shedding. As we’ve covered in a previous blog post, brushing your dog’s coat daily or at least three times per week can really help to reduce fur left behind. Choose a grooming tool that is designed for your dog’s specific coat type to effectively capture loose hair and prevent it from spreading around your home.

Keeping your dog's coat healthy can minimize excessive shedding. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper grooming all contribute to a healthier coat. Consult with your vet to ensure your dog's diet and grooming routine are optimal for reducing shedding.

It’s not where you vacuum, but how…

Invest in a good quality vacuum cleaner with specialised attachments for pet hair. Vacuum highly visited areas around the home, furniture, and your dog's favourite spots regularly. For an added edge, sprinkle baking soda on carpets before vacuuming. It helps loosen the hair from the carpet and neutralises odours.

Use lint rollers and tape

A bit of an ‘old school’ one…lint rollers or masking tape can be lifesavers. They can be used for quickly removing dog hair from upholstery, clothing, and even curtains. Keep these handy items easily accessible for using in different areas of your home whenever you spot a build-up of fur.

Wash bedding and fabrics frequently

Dog hair loves to stick to fabrics, especially bedding and blankets. Wash these items frequently with a high-quality pet-friendly detergent. Adding a half-cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle can help loosen hair and reduce static, making it easier to remove during washing.

Create designated zones for your dog

You could try to contain shedding by establishing specific areas where your dog spends most of their time. Place their bed, blankets, and toys in these zones. This makes it easier to focus your cleaning efforts and reduces the spread of hair throughout the house.

Damp cleaning for hard surfaces

For hard surfaces like hardwood floors or tile, damp mopping or using microfiber mops and cloths can be highly effective in capturing and removing dog hair. Dry sweeping or using a broom tends to redistribute the hair, making it more challenging to clean up as it’s dispersed throughout the home.

Embrace pet-friendly furniture

Opt for furniture with materials that repel or camouflage pet hair. Leather or vinyl upholstery, for instance, tends to resist fur and is easier to clean. If you prefer fabric furniture, choose tightly woven materials in colours close to your dog's fur to make shedding less noticeable.

Prevention is key

Implement preventive measures like regularly bathing and brushing your dog, using protective covers on furniture, and even considering rugs or mats at entrances to trap excess hair before it spreads through the house.

Stay consistent

Consistency is crucial in the battle against pet hair. Develop a routine that works for you and stick to it. A little effort each day can make a significant difference in maintaining a fur-free home.

Utilize air purifiers

Invest in an air purifier equipped with a HEPA filter to trap pet dander and hair particles floating in the air. This not only helps in maintaining a clean environment but also contributes to better air quality, especially for those with allergies.

While completely eradicating dog hair from your home might be impossible, following these tips can certainly help manage and reduce the presence of fur in your living spaces.

Embracing a combination of regular dog grooming, cleaning, and certain preventive measures will not only keep your home clean but also create a more comfortable environment for both you and your pooch. A fur-free haven is within reach with a little dedication and these effective strategies.

If you’d like to book your first, or your next, appointment with Doggy Styling visit us today at our Cobham dog grooming salon, our Weybridge dog grooming salon, or our Surbiton dog grooming salon.