How to Clean Dog Hair From a Washing Machine (Step-by-Step Guide)

If you share your home with a furry friend, you already know that dog hair gets everywhere — on your clothes, furniture, and unfortunately, inside your washing machine. While washing pet bedding or blankets, loose fur can cling to the drum, seal, and drain, leaving your laundry covered in lint-like hair even after washing.

Cleaning your washing machine regularly is essential not just for hygiene but also for preventing clogs, unpleasant odors, and malfunctioning.
In this detailed guide, you’ll learn how to remove dog hair from your washing machine, how to prevent it from coming back, and which cleaning methods work best for both front-loading and top-loading machines.

Why Dog Hair Sticks Inside Your Washing Machine

Dog hair is fine, static-prone, and lightweight. When mixed with water and detergent, it can clump together instead of rinsing away.
Here’s why it tends to stick around:

• Static Electricity: Dog hair sticks to the inner drum, rubber seals, and door due to static buildup.
• Soap Residue: Detergent residue traps small hairs, making them cling even more.
• Drain Clogs: Excess hair can accumulate in the drain or filter, blocking water flow.
• Wet Fur Clumping: Once wet, dog hair clumps and adheres to surfaces instead of flushing away.

Knowing this helps you understand why cleaning must go beyond just wiping the drum — you need to target every part of the machine.

How to Clean Dog Hair From a Washing Machine (Step-by-Step Guide)

Here’s a complete process to get your washing machine spotless again:

Step 1: Remove Visible Hair from the Drum

After washing pet bedding or clothes, check the drum for visible fur.
Use one of the following tools to remove as much hair as possible before starting a deep clean:

A microfiber cloth or rubber glove (slightly dampened)

A lint roller

A vacuum with a hose attachment

Wipe or vacuum in circular motions to pick up fur trapped along the inner wall and seal.

Step 2: Clean the Rubber Door Seal (Front-Loaders Only)

The rubber gasket around the door is a hotspot for trapped pet hair.

Pull back the rubber edge gently.

Use a cloth dipped in vinegar or warm soapy water to clean under the folds.

Remove any visible hair, grime, or mold buildup.

💡 Pro Tip: Sprinkle a bit of baking soda before wiping to neutralize odors.

Step 3: Run an Empty Hot Wash Cycle

Once you’ve cleared visible hair, it’s time to flush out the rest.

Add 2 cups of white vinegar directly into the drum.

Run an empty hot cycle (no clothes).

After the cycle finishes, wipe down the inside with a clean towel.

Vinegar breaks down detergent residue and helps loosen stuck hair.

Step 4: Clean the Drain Pump or Filter

Most washing machines have a small access panel for the drain filter.
This area often collects hair, lint, and other debris.

Open the filter panel (usually at the bottom front).

Place a towel underneath to catch water.

Remove the filter and rinse it under running water.

Use a soft brush or old toothbrush to scrub away any hair or residue.

If you’ve never cleaned your drain filter before, you’ll be amazed (and slightly horrified) at what comes out!

Step 5: Wipe the Drum and Door Dry

After cleaning, wipe everything with a microfiber towel to prevent moisture and mildew buildup.
Make sure to dry the rubber gasket, door glass, and the inside of the drum.

Step 6: Run a Second Rinse Cycle (Optional but Recommended)

For extra cleanliness, run another quick rinse or spin cycle with just water to flush away any remaining hair or vinegar scent.

How to Prevent Dog Hair From Getting in the Washing Machine

Cleaning is only half the battle — preventing buildup in the first place will save you time and effort.
Here are some effective ways to minimize dog hair in your washer:

Brush Your Dog Regularly

Brushing your dog before washing their bedding or blankets drastically reduces shedding.
Aim to brush them 2–3 times per week, especially during seasonal shedding months.

Shake Out Clothes and Bedding Before Washing

Always shake out pet fabrics outdoors before tossing them in the machine.
You can also use a lint roller or rubber glove to remove loose fur beforehand.

Use a Pet Hair Remover in the Washer

Pet hair remover balls or laundry-specific filters can trap fur during the wash cycle.
Popular options include:

• FurZapper
• Pet Hair Catcher Discs
• Lint Trapper Bags

These reusable tools are a simple and eco-friendly way to reduce fur transfer.

Choose the Right Wash Settings

Select a pre-rinse or extra rinse cycle to help flush away hair.
Always use cold water for delicate fabrics, but warm water can loosen hair more effectively on thicker fabrics like blankets.

Don’t Overload the Washer

Overloading traps hair inside folds of fabric and prevents proper rinsing.
Leave enough room for water circulation to allow the machine to lift and rinse hair away efficiently.

Dry Clothes with Dryer Sheets or Dryer Balls

Even after washing, some hair remains on fabrics.
Toss them into the dryer with:

• Dryer balls (wool or rubber)
• Anti-static dryer sheets

These tools loosen remaining fur, which then collects in the dryer’s lint trap.

Clean the Washer Regularly

Make a habit of cleaning your machine once a month or after every few pet laundry loads.
Consistent maintenance prevents buildup and keeps your washer smelling fresh.

Natural Cleaning Alternatives for Dog Hair Buildup

Prefer to avoid harsh chemicals? These natural remedies work wonders:

• Vinegar + Baking Soda: Fights odor and breaks down sticky residue.
• Lemon Juice: Natural disinfectant with a pleasant scent.
• Hydrogen Peroxide (3%): Use sparingly to sanitize drum surfaces.

Always rinse thoroughly after using natural cleaners to avoid residue on clothes.

What Not to Do When Cleaning Dog Hair From a Washer

Avoid these common mistakes that could damage your machine:

❌ Using bleach too frequently (it can corrode seals and hoses)

❌ Ignoring the filter or drain trap

❌ Overloading the washer

❌ Letting wet hair sit in the drum

❌ Forgetting to dry the door gasket

A few simple precautions can extend the life of your washer and improve cleaning efficiency.

Conclusion How to Clean Dog Hair From a Washing Machine (Step-by-Step Guide)

Dog hair is a small price to pay for the joy and love our furry friends bring. However, keeping your washing machine clean ensures fresh laundry, longer appliance life, and fewer maintenance headaches.

By following these steps — from regular brushing and pre-wash shaking to monthly machine cleaning — you can keep your washer free from stubborn fur and foul odors.

Remember: prevention is the key. A few extra minutes of prep can save hours of cleaning and protect your washing machine from costly damage.