Pet hair shows up fast on black trousers, fleece and knitwear. Remove the loose hair while the garment is dry, then wash it according to the care label.
Read the care label first
Check the symbols before you brush, roll or wash the garment. The label sets the permitted washing, drying and ironing treatments. A crossed-out symbol rules out that treatment.
GINETEX owns the international care-labelling system and explains the symbols in its textile care guide. Follow the garment maker's instructions when they give more detail.
Look at the fabric and trim as well. Loose knits, sequins, embroidery and raised pile can catch under pressure. Test your chosen tool inside a hem before you work across a visible area.
Shake off loose hair
Take the garment outside and give it a firm shake. Hang it on a broad hanger or lay it on a clean, flat surface. Close zips and fasten buttons so the fabric stays in shape.
Use your hand to gather large clumps. Check cuffs, pockets and the inside of trouser legs, where hair tends to collect.
Use a reusable roller on suitable fabric
Move the reusable roller across a small section with light pressure. Work in the direction of the fabric pile where the garment has one. Empty the collection chamber as it fills.
Keep the roller away from loose threads, delicate trim and damaged seams. Stop if it pulls the weave or changes the surface. Take delicate or dry-clean garments to a cleaner when the care label calls for professional treatment.
The reusable roller belongs on suitable clothes, sofas, bedding and car interiors. Do not use it on your dog or cat.
Check the garment before it enters the machine
Turn the garment over and inspect both sides. Hair can hide beneath collars and along side seams. A second dry pass takes less time than picking damp hair from the fabric after the wash.
Keep fur-covered pet blankets separate from everyday clothes. Follow each item's care label and stay within the washing machine maker's load guidance.
Clean the lint filter where your appliance instructions tell you to do so. Contact the manufacturer or an engineer if hair blocks a part you cannot reach through normal maintenance.
Keep heat within the care instructions
Do not add a tumble-dryer cycle unless the care label permits one. Heat can shrink or mark some fabrics. Choose the programme and temperature shown on the garment label.
Inspect the clothing after washing and before ironing. Remove any remaining hair while the fabric can take the stated treatment.
Groom loose fur before it reaches your clothes
Use a grooming mitt or coat-appropriate brush on your pet. Keep sessions short and stop when your pet shows stress or discomfort. PDSA notes that coat type and season affect grooming needs in its pet grooming guidance.
Ask your vet or groomer about sore skin, matting or a change in shedding. Home grooming cannot diagnose a coat or skin problem.
A clothes-ready routine
- Groom loose fur from your pet with the mitt.
- Shake the garment outside.
- Check the care label and test a hidden patch.
- Use the roller on suitable dry fabric.
- Wash the garment under its care instructions.
Use the same order after your pet sits on the sofa. Our guide to removing pet hair from a sofa covers upholstery checks and fabric pile.
Questions about pet hair on clothes
Can I use the roller on wool?
Read the care label and test inside a hem. Wool knits can snag or change under pressure, so stop if the surface moves or pulls.
Will washing remove all pet hair?
A wash may leave hair in seams or on the fabric. Remove as much as you can while the garment is dry, then use the wash programme shown on the care label.
Can I use the roller on clothes while I am wearing them?
Take the garment off first. Lay it flat or place it on a hanger so you can control the pressure and keep the roller away from skin.