Pet Hair: remove dog and cat hair
In a house with a dog or cat you will encounter animal hair everywhere. It doesn't just look unsanitary: people can also get allergic reactions from animal hair. By regularly removing pet hair, you can greatly reduce the chance of an allergic reaction.
But you will notice: removing pet hair from carpets, fabric furniture or curtains can be a very difficult job. In this guide, I'll tell you everything you need to know about removing pet hair from dogs and cats!
Allergy to pet hair (cat hair and dog hair)
Pet hair is one of the most common allergens in the house. It is actually not the animal hair, but the pet dander that can cause an allergic reaction. These dander, also known as epithelium, are often found on pet hairs lying around as well.
It is actually not the animal hair, but the pet dander that can cause an allergic reaction
Someone who has an allergy to pet hair can already experience problems when entering a house with a dog or cat. Petting a dog or cat can also cause an allergic reaction.
A cat's allergens are much stronger than a dog's. This is because these allergens are a lot smaller and can therefore reach the airways more easily.
Where are pet hairs often found in the home?
You will undoubtedly encounter animal hair in a home with dogs and cats. Especially on fabric surfaces, as hairs can easily adhere to them.
Here's where you often come across pet hair:
- Fabric sofas and chairs
- Pillows and rugs
- Carpet and rugs
- Bed linen
- Doormats
- Curtains
Of course, pet hair can also be found on pet toys and cat and dog baskets.
Why remove pet hair?
Removing pet hair not only makes for a tidier house: it can also greatly reduce the chance of an allergic reaction. For example, people with a possible dog or cat allergy are less likely to come into contact with these animal hairs.
Symptoms dog or cat allergy
As I mentioned earlier, petting a cat or dog can already result in an allergic reaction. The symptoms of an allergy to dogs and cats range from itchy eyes to respiratory problems.
Pet Hair Allergy Symptoms:
- Itchy nose, sneezing and coughing (Ritinis)
- Watery, itchy and red eyes (Conjunctivitis)
- Asthmatic complaints, shortness of breath
- Eczema complaints
- Headache
Remove pet hair
Removing pet hair can be a tricky job. The animal hairs settle quickly in textiles, so you can't easily vacuum them with a vacuum cleaner, for example. Using a special pet hair brush can make removing pet hair much easier.
Use a vacuum cleaner for pet hair
It is very important to use a vacuum cleaner that is suitable for vacuuming pet hair. But, what actually makes a vacuum cleaner suitable for pet hair?
Not only is the presence of a motorized pet hair brush important: a good HEPA filter and an odor filter can also be big pluses in a home with pets.
Requirements of a vacuum cleaner for pet hair:
- A motorized turbo brush for pet hair*
- At least one HEPA 13 filter (>99.95% retention)
- Optional: odor filter for bad smells
* A pet hair suction brush is also called a turbo brush. A turbo brush is often equipped with a motorized brush: this easily pulls the animal hair out of the carpet. It is often necessary to make this brush hair-free regularly, as the hairs can get stuck in the brush.
Replace materials
In addition to regularly removing pet hair in the home, you can also replace materials to better remove pets. For example, in a home with dogs and cats, it is better to opt for a smooth hard floor instead of carpeting.
Replace these materials in your home:
- Replace or reduce the amount of fabric furniture
- Choose a smooth floor, think of a wooden floor
- Reduce the amount of cushions on the sofa
Cleaning the house
Of course it is also a matter of cleaning. For starters, you can keep the dog or cat out of the bedroom from now on. In addition, it is smart to comb the dog or cat outside, if you are not already doing this.
Cleaning tips for pet hair:
- Mop the floor regularly, at least every two weeks
- Clean slippery furniture every now and then with a damp cloth
- Open a window every day for good ventilation
- Keep the humidity low; turn on the heating in winter
Good ventilation and low humidity of the home is not only good for pet hair. It can also help eliminate dust mites.
More information about a vacuum cleaner for pets?
Is it almost impossible to vacuum up pet hair with your current vacuum cleaner? Then you may not have a suitable vacuum cleaner. I would be happy to help you make a good choice. So I researched the best vacuum cleaner for pet hair. Do you have a question about this subject or about a specific vacuum cleaner? Feel free to message me!
