How to Clean a Carpet from Cat Hair: A Complete Guide
If you’re a cat owner, you know the joys of living with a furry friend—along with the constant battle of dealing with cat hair. While it’s easy enough to brush off cat hair from furniture and clothes, carpets present a bigger challenge. Pet hair embeds deep into the fibers of the carpet, making it tricky to remove, especially if you don’t clean regularly.
To help you keep your carpets cat-hair free, we’ve put together a step-by-step guide using household tools and a few effective techniques.
In this guide:
Step 1: Vacuum Regularly with the Right Tools
The first line of defense against cat hair on your carpet is regular vacuuming. However, not all vacuums are equal when it comes to picking up pet hair. To effectively remove cat hair, it’s essential to use a vacuum cleaner designed for pets or one with strong suction power and brush attachments.
- Vacuum Types: Look for vacuums with motorized brush rolls or rubber brushes, which can loosen pet hair from carpet fibers. Some pet-friendly models even come with special pet hair attachments.
- Frequency: Vacuum at least twice a week if you have a cat. For high-traffic areas or places where your cat lounges often, you might need to vacuum daily.
Step 2: Use a Rubber Broom or Squeegee
A surprising but effective way to remove cat hair from carpets is by using a rubber broom or squeegee. The rubber bristles or edge create static, which helps to pull the hair out of the carpet fibers.
- How to Use: Drag the rubber broom or squeegee across the surface of the carpet, applying firm pressure. As you move, you’ll see clumps of hair gathering together, which you can easily pick up and discard.
- Why It Works: The rubber creates friction that pulls pet hair out of carpet fibers that regular vacuuming might miss.
Step 3: Lint Rollers and Sticky Tape
For small areas or quick touch-ups, a lint roller or sticky tape can be a lifesaver. It’s particularly useful for corners or tight spaces where larger tools might not reach.
- How to Use: Simply roll the lint roller over the carpet surface. If you don’t have a lint roller, you can wrap sticky tape around your hand (sticky side out) and press it against the carpet.
- Best Areas: This method works best on smaller carpeted areas, like steps, or when you need to quickly clean up before guests arrive.
Step 4: Baking Soda for Deodorizing and Loosening Hair
Baking soda is a multi-purpose cleaning tool that not only helps deodorize your carpet but can also make it easier to remove embedded cat hair.
- How to Use: Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the carpet and leave it to sit for 10–15 minutes. The baking soda helps loosen the hair and makes it easier to vacuum up.
- Bonus: This method also neutralizes any pet odors that may be lingering in your carpet.
Step 5: Use a Damp Cloth or Sponge
For smaller, stubborn areas where hair is really stuck, try using a damp cloth or sponge. This method works best for spot cleaning and can pull up hair that is deeply embedded in the carpet fibers.
- How to Use: Dampen a microfiber cloth or sponge with water (not soaking wet), then rub it over the carpet in circular motions. The moisture helps to trap the hair, making it easier to gather into clumps.
- Pro Tip: Use this method on spots where your cat may frequently nap or play, as these areas often collect more hair.
Step 6: Carpet Rakes for Deep Cleaning
If you’re dealing with long-term cat hair build-up, a carpet rake is a highly effective tool. Carpet rakes are designed to reach deep into the fibers and pull out hair, dirt, and other debris that standard vacuums might miss.
- How to Use: Gently rake the tool over the carpet’s surface, pulling towards you in long strokes. You’ll notice hair gathering in clumps, which you can pick up by hand or with a vacuum.
Step 7: Professional Carpet Cleaning
While regular home cleaning methods can significantly reduce cat hair in carpets, a professional deep clean is recommended at least once or twice a year, especially if your cat sheds heavily. Professional carpet cleaning services have industrial equipment designed to extract dirt and pet hair deeply embedded in the carpet’s fibers.
For a professional touch, Go Cleaners London offers expert carpet cleaning services that can help remove pet hair, odors, and stains, leaving your carpets fresh and clean.
Prevention Tips: Reducing Cat Hair Build-Up
The best way to avoid excessive cat hair in your carpets is to minimize how much your cat sheds in the first place. Here are a few tips to help control shedding:
- Regular Grooming: Brush your cat daily to remove loose fur. This prevents it from shedding onto carpets and furniture.
- Use Cat-Specific Furniture Covers: Place washable blankets or covers in your cat’s favorite spots. These are easier to clean than carpets.
- Air Purifiers: Using an air purifier with a HEPA filter can reduce the amount of airborne pet dander and hair, keeping your home cleaner overall.
Dealing with cat hair on your carpet doesn’t have to be a constant battle. With the right tools and methods, you can effectively clean and maintain a hair-free carpet, ensuring your home stays fresh and tidy. Regular vacuuming, using a combination of tools like rubber brooms, lint rollers, and even professional carpet cleaning services, will make a noticeable difference.
For stubborn cat hair that you can’t tackle on your own, consider reaching out to Go Cleaners London for professional carpet cleaning services. They’ll ensure your carpets are deep cleaned and refreshed, making your home look spotless again.