While animals may seem like part of the family, their constantly shedding hair can be a bane for the person responsible for cleaning the home. Even with frequent vacuuming, pet hair has a tendency to become entrenched in carpet fibers. It can be difficult to remove.
There are a couple different ways to remove pet hair, some easier than others. A common method is wearing rubber gloves and rubbing them across the carpet. The hair is attracted to the rubber gloves and can be disposed of in a trash can. This method can be arduous, though, especially when used for large areas.
An easier method uses a clean sponge mop. Vacuum floor to remove loose pet hair (We recommend the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser). Spray sponge with a small amount of water, then run mop over carpet. This causes pet hair to clump, where it can easily be picked up for disposal.
For those that prefer to remove pet hair in as few steps as possible, there is another method. Mix a solution using three parts water and one part fabric softener. Lightly spray carpet with the solution. Allow carpet to dry, then simply vacuum pet hair away. The solution helps break static, which is often what is attracting the pet hair to the carpet. Be sure to spot test the solution in an inconspicuous spot before using on the entire carpet.
A similar method uses baking soda and has the added benefit of deodorizing the room as you clean. Lightly sprinkle baking soda across carpet. Allow to sit for a few minutes then vacuum as usual. The baking soda lubricates the carpet fibers and hairs, allowing them to separate easily when vacuumed.
If none of these methods work or the carpet is a specialty one, then professional carpet cleaning may be necessary to remove pet hair completely.
