
If you’ve ever walked out the door looking like you hugged a golden retriever in a black sweater—you’re not alone. Pet hair clings like it pays rent, and no matter how much you lint-roll, it somehow comes back stronger.
Here’s the good news: There’s a laundry hack that actually works. It’s simple, effective, and doesn’t involve any fancy gadgets or secret spells whispered over your washing machine.
So What’s the Hack?
Dry first, then wash.
Yes, you read that right.
Before tossing your clothes into the washer, pop them in the dryer on a low or no-heat setting for about 10 minutes with a dryer sheet or dryer balls. The motion and softener work together to loosen pet hair and pull it into the lint trap.
After that, shake out your clothes and then wash them like normal. The result? Clothes that come out of the wash looking noticeably less fuzzy.
Another Hack: Add Baking Soda to the Wash
Here’s another laundry trick that pulls its weight: Add ½ cup of baking soda to your wash cycle.
Baking soda helps relax fabric fibers, making it easier for pet hair to release during the wash. It also helps with deodorizing—bonus points if your pet likes to nap on your laundry pile.
Why These Tricks Work
Pet hair sticks to wet fabric like Velcro. Drying first uses friction and static to loosen hair before it gets waterlogged. Dryer sheets or wool balls help reduce static cling and soften fabric.
Baking soda, on the other hand, gives your detergent a boost, helping break the bond between hair and clothes. Together, they make a noticeable dent in that furry layer.
Pro Tips for Even Better Results
Use a lint roller or pet brush before doing laundry. It gives your clothes a head start.
Clean the lint trap before AND after drying. A full trap = less hair picked up.
Wash pet-hair-heavy items separately so you don’t transfer fur to everything else.
Add white vinegar during the rinse cycle for extra softening power.
Looking for More Smart Cleaning Tips?
Whether you’re dealing with pet hair, dusty baseboards, or streaky windows—our blog is full of tips to keep your home in check.
We’re based right here in Spruce Grove, proudly serving homes in Stony Plain and throughout Parkland County, so we get it—pet hair is part of life. But with a few smart habits, it doesn’t have to take over your wardrobe.