Can you wash dog blankets with hair? Absolutely! Washing dog blankets, especially those laden with stubborn pet hair, is a common task for dog owners. Keeping them fresh requires a strategic approach.
Dog owners know the struggle. You love your furry friend, but their constant shedding leaves a trail of fur on everything, especially their favorite blankets. These cozy spots become magnets for dog hair, and over time, they can start to smell less than fresh. But fear not! With the right techniques, you can conquer the dreaded dog hair and keep your pet’s blankets clean, hygienic, and smelling wonderful. This guide will walk you through the best ways to tackle dog hair removal from blankets and ensure your pet blanket cleaning routine is effective. We’ll cover everything from pre-wash prep to drying and odor elimination, making shedding dog laundry a manageable chore.
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The Pre-Wash Battle: Tackling Dog Hair Before Washing
Before you even think about tossing those furry blankets into the washing machine, there’s a crucial step to take: dog hair removal. If you skip this, you’ll likely end up with a washing machine full of hair and a blanket that’s still covered.
Methods for Initial Hair Removal
- Lint Rollers: While effective for small areas, a standard lint roller can be tedious for an entire blanket. However, a larger, reusable lint roller or a specialized pet hair lint roller can be surprisingly efficient.
- Rubber Gloves: This is a surprisingly effective DIY method. Dampen a pair of rubber cleaning gloves and rub your hands across the blanket. The friction will cause the hair to clump together, making it easy to pick off.
- Squeegee: A clean, dry window squeegee can also work wonders. Drag the squeegee across the fabric in one direction. The rubber edge will grip the hair, collecting it into manageable piles.
- Vacuum Cleaner with Upholstery Attachment: For heavily soiled blankets, using your vacuum cleaner with the upholstery attachment is a great way to suck up a significant amount of loose hair and debris. This is especially helpful for thicker blankets or washing dog beds.
The Importance of Brushing
If your dog’s blankets are particularly hairy, consider gently brushing your dog over the blanket before washing. This can capture a lot of loose fur that might otherwise end up in your washing machine and pipes.
Washing Machine Strategies for Pet Blanket Cleaning
Once you’ve removed as much loose hair as possible, it’s time to get them into the washing machine. Here’s how to optimize the process for pet blanket cleaning.
Preparing the Load
- Shake It Out: Give the blankets a good shake outdoors to dislodge any remaining loose fur.
- Check Pockets: Ensure there are no toys, treats, or other items that could damage your washing machine.
- Load Size: Don’t overcrowd the washing machine. Blankets, especially when damp, take up a lot of space. Overloading can prevent proper cleaning and rinsing. If you have multiple blankets, wash them in separate loads.
Washing Machine Settings
- Water Temperature: Use warm or hot water. This is generally more effective at loosening dirt, oils, and any lingering dander that can cause odors. Always check the blanket’s care label first, as some materials may not tolerate high heat.
- Cycle Selection: A gentle or delicate cycle is usually best to protect the fabric. However, if the blankets are very soiled or packed with hair, a slightly more robust cycle might be necessary. Again, refer to the care label.
- Extra Rinse Cycle: This is a game-changer for removing dog fur from blankets. An extra rinse cycle ensures that all detergent and loosened hair are thoroughly washed away, preventing residue buildup that can trap odors and make the fabric stiff.
Detergent Choices for Shedding Dog Laundry
The type of detergent you use can make a difference.
- Pet-Friendly Laundry Detergent: Look for detergents specifically designed for pet owners or those marketed as hypoallergenic and free of harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances. These are often gentler on sensitive skin (both yours and your dog’s) and can be more effective at breaking down pet-related grime and odors.
- Adding Vinegar: White vinegar is a natural fabric softener and deodorizer. Add about 1 cup of white vinegar to the fabric softener compartment or directly into the rinse cycle. It helps to loosen hair and neutralize odors. Don’t worry about the smell; it dissipates as the blanket dries.
- Baking Soda: You can also add ½ cup of baking soda to the wash cycle along with your regular detergent. Baking soda is excellent for absorbing odors and boosting the cleaning power of your detergent.
Tackling Stubborn Hair and Odors
- Washcloth Trick: Toss a few damp microfiber cloths or specialized pet hair-catching laundry balls into the wash with the blankets. These items help attract and collect loose hair during the wash cycle, preventing it from redepositing on other items or clogging your machine.
- Pre-Soaking: For particularly smelly or heavily soiled blankets, consider pre-soaking them in a solution of water and either white vinegar or a pet-safe enzymatic cleaner for a few hours or overnight before washing. This can break down tough stains and odors.
Drying Your Pet Blankets: The Final Frontier
Proper drying is just as important as washing for keeping pet blankets fresh and free of lingering smells and hair.
Dryer Settings
- Low Heat or Air Fluff: Always opt for low heat or an air-fluff setting. High heat can cause some fabrics to shrink, damage fibers, and even set in any remaining odors or hair.
- Dryer Sheets: While dryer sheets can add a pleasant scent, some are not ideal for pet items as they can leave residues that irritate sensitive skin. Consider using wool dryer balls instead. They help reduce static, soften fabric, and can speed up drying time. You can add a few drops of pet-safe essential oil (like lavender, known for its calming properties) to the wool balls, but ensure the oil is safe for pets and used sparingly.
- Clean the Lint Filter: After each load, diligently clean your dryer’s lint filter. This is crucial for preventing lint buildup, which can be a fire hazard, and for ensuring efficient drying.
Air Drying Benefits
- Odor Elimination: If the weather permits, air drying blankets outdoors on a clothesline is an excellent way to naturally deodorize them. The sun and fresh air are natural disinfectants and fresheners.
- Gentle on Fabric: Air drying is the gentlest method for preserving the integrity and softness of the blanket’s fibers.
Post-Drying Hair Removal
Even after washing and drying, you might find a few stray hairs. A quick once-over with a lint roller or a damp rubber glove can easily remove these last bits.
Deep Cleaning and Odor Removal Techniques
Sometimes, regular washing isn’t enough, especially for those deeply ingrained smells associated with dogs. Here are some methods for a more thorough clean.
Enzymatic Cleaners
These cleaners contain enzymes that break down organic matter like urine, vomit, and general pet odors. They are excellent for washing dog beds and blankets that have had accidents or are starting to smell “doggy.”
- How to Use: Follow the product instructions. Typically, you’ll spray the affected area liberally and let it sit for a specified time before washing as usual. Some can be added directly to the wash cycle.
Vinegar Soaks
As mentioned earlier, white vinegar is a powerhouse for odor control.
- For Smelly Blankets: Soak the blanket in a tub or sink filled with cool water and 1-2 cups of white vinegar for several hours. Then, wash as normal.
Baking Soda Boost
- In the Wash: Add ½ to 1 cup of baking soda directly to the wash drum along with your detergent. It’s a safe and effective way to combat odors.
Best Practices for Maintaining Fresh Pet Blankets
Consistency is key when it comes to pet blanket cleaning and keeping them smelling fresh.
Regular Washing Schedule
Don’t wait until the blankets are visibly dirty or smelly. Aim to wash them regularly, perhaps every one to two weeks, depending on your dog’s usage and any shedding seasons.
Spot Cleaning
For minor spills or messes, spot clean immediately with a pet-safe cleaner and a damp cloth. This prevents stains from setting and reduces the frequency of full washes.
Rotating Blankets
Having a few extra blankets on hand allows you to rotate them. While one is in the wash, your dog can use another, ensuring they always have a clean, comfortable spot.
Washing Dog Beds
The principles for washing dog beds are very similar to washing blankets. Many dog beds have removable covers that can be machine washed. If the entire bed is washable, ensure it fits comfortably in your machine and follow the care instructions. For larger beds that can’t be machine washed, spot cleaning and deodorizing with baking soda or enzymatic cleaners are essential.
Deshedding Dog Blankets: A Proactive Approach
The term deshedding dog blankets might sound unusual, but it refers to the process of actively removing hair and preventing it from embedding deeply. This ties back to the initial pre-wash hair removal steps. Regularly using tools like the rubber glove or squeegee method on your dog’s blankets between washes can significantly reduce the amount of hair that needs to be tackled during laundry day.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Challenge: Stubborn Dog Hair
Solution: Multiple washes might be necessary for heavily soiled blankets. Use a brush or squeegee before each wash, and consider a pet hair-catching laundry ball in the wash and dryer.
Challenge: Lingering Odors
Solution: Ensure thorough rinsing. Utilize white vinegar or baking soda in the wash. For persistent odors, consider enzymatic cleaners or a longer pre-soak. Ensure the blankets are completely dry before use, as dampness can encourage mildew and odors.
Challenge: Matted or Stiff Fabric
Solution: Avoid high heat in the dryer. Use wool dryer balls or a small amount of white vinegar in the rinse cycle to help soften fibers. Gently brush the blanket after drying to restore fluffiness.
Table: Laundry Product Comparison for Pet Blankets
| Product Type | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pet-Friendly Detergent | General cleaning, sensitive skin | Gentle, effective on pet odors, biodegradable options | Can be more expensive |
| White Vinegar | Deodorizing, softening, loosening hair | Natural, inexpensive, readily available | Strong smell during use, but it dissipates |
| Baking Soda | Odor absorption, boosting cleaning power | Natural, inexpensive, safe for most fabrics | Can sometimes leave a slight powdery residue if not rinsed |
| Enzymatic Cleaners | Tough stains, urine, strong pet odors | Breaks down organic matter, highly effective on specific issues | May require longer soak times, follow instructions carefully |
| Microfiber Cloths/Balls | Hair collection during wash | Attract and trap hair, reusable | May not catch 100% of hair |
| Wool Dryer Balls | Softening, static reduction, faster drying | Natural alternative to dryer sheets, reusable, eco-friendly | Initial cost can be higher than dryer sheets |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How often should I wash my dog’s blankets?
A1: It’s generally recommended to wash your dog’s blankets every one to two weeks. If your dog sheds heavily or has accidents, you may need to wash them more frequently.
Q2: Can I use regular laundry detergent for my dog’s blankets?
A2: While you can, it’s best to use a pet-friendly or hypoallergenic detergent. These are formulated to be gentler and may be more effective at removing pet-specific odors and dander.
Q3: How do I get rid of the dog smell from blankets?
A3: White vinegar and baking soda are excellent natural deodorizers. Add them to your wash cycle or use them for a pre-soak. Enzymatic cleaners are also very effective for tackling persistent odors. Ensure blankets are fully dried, as residual moisture can create mildew smells.
Q4: My washing machine still has dog hair after washing. What should I do?
A4: This often happens when a lot of hair wasn’t removed before washing. Clean your washing machine filter. For future washes, try using a pet hair catcher in the machine, a damp rubber glove or squeegee for pre-treatment, and an extra rinse cycle.
Q5: Can I wash dog blankets with my own clothes?
A5: It’s generally not recommended. Dog blankets can carry a significant amount of hair, dander, and potentially allergens or bacteria. Washing them separately prevents this from transferring to your clothing and keeps your washing machine cleaner.
Q6: What is the best way to wash pet blankets?
A6: The best way involves pre-treating to remove as much hair as possible, using a gentle cycle with warm water, a pet-friendly detergent, and an extra rinse cycle. Air drying outdoors or on a low heat setting in the dryer, along with cleaning the lint trap, are also key steps.
Q7: How can I prevent pet hair from clinging to blankets in the first place?
A7: While it’s hard to prevent shedding entirely, regularly brushing your dog and vacuuming their bedding can help. Some fabrics are naturally more prone to trapping hair than others; consider choosing smoother, tighter-weave fabrics for your dog’s blankets if possible.
Q8: How do I deal with removing dog fur from blankets that are particularly matted down with hair?
A8: For heavily matted hair, a stiff brush or even a pet grooming rake (used gently!) can help loosen the fur before you attempt to remove it with a rubber glove or squeegee. A vacuum with a powerful suction and the right attachment can also lift embedded fur.
Q9: What are the benefits of deshedding dog blankets before washing?
A9: Deshedding beforehand significantly reduces the amount of hair that goes into your washing machine. This means less hair stuck in the drum, fewer clogs in your pipes, and a more effective wash cycle, leading to cleaner blankets and a happier washing machine. It’s a crucial step for cleaning dog hair off fabric effectively.
Q10: Are there special machines for washing dog beds with heavy hair?
A10: While specialized machines aren’t common for home use, a front-loading washing machine often handles pet bedding better than top-loaders with agitators, as it’s gentler on the items and can accommodate bulkier loads. For very large or heavily soiled beds that won’t fit your home machine, consider using a laundromat with commercial-grade machines. When removing pet hair from washable blankets, the same principles of pre-treatment and proper machine settings apply regardless of the machine type.