A washer is not very good at removing a thick layer of dry pet hair; some of it can simply redistribute through the load and collect in filters. Removing as much hair as possible first and avoiding an overpacked drum improves the wash substantially.
Shake or brush clothing before washing
Do this outdoors or in an easy-to-clean area to remove loose hair. A lint roller or fabric brush helps on heavily covered garments and keeps unnecessary debris out of the washer’s drain system.
Leave room for clothes to move
An overpacked load prevents water from carrying hair and soil toward the filter or drain. Follow the machine’s capacity guidance and separate very hairy blankets or garments if they overwhelm the rest of the load.
Check the filter, gasket, and drum after hairy loads
Some washers have user-accessible filters, and front-load machines can collect hair around the door gasket. Clean only manufacturer-designated maintenance areas and remove debris before the next load.
Use the dryer only when the garment care label allows it
Dryer tumbling can release hair that then collects on the lint screen, but it is not a solution for fabrics that cannot tolerate heat. Clean the lint screen afterward and do not extend the cycle unnecessarily.
Sources
- American Cleaning Institute — Cleaning Tips — Household cleaning methods, product use, dosing, and material compatibility.