15/08/2025
Time to call it and share - Objective: to productively remove dog hair from a client's carpets with their own equipment week after week.
The following is for those of you that do not have their own professional carpet cleaning equipment and products, to cost effectively tackle unwanted pet hair on a regular basis.
So, to tackle the problem with less frustration, so that I could complete all my cleaning tasks within the allotted time slot, I will share my tried and tested results. Plus, cleaning certain tasks on a regular basis more productively will enable less time spent cleaning them due to build up, ergo; thanks to the fruits of my labours, the rewards are a greater reflection on my skills and ability.
Some of you may remember that I posted a 'before and after' patch of carpet using a carpet rake. It is a 'hands and knees' job and quite an intense manual workout, however it is a very effective process/step. I also apply a spray/mist afterwards to loosen/soften the hair because hair is sticky and will anchor to most fabrics and surfaces due to electrostaticity. I then rake again before finally vacuuming.
Proven Results breakdown:
Step 1 - Dry Carpet Rake:
A metal bristles rake works best. Pull the rake towards you in different directions across the full area you wish to tackle. This will bring most of the hair and dander to the surface. The hair will collect in piles during this process; remove with a vacuum or by hand into a bin (I tend to use a bowl and bin liner for ease to complete the task more quickly)
Optional step - Rubber Broom or Dustpan & Rubber Brush:
A rubber broom/dustpan & rubber brush creates electrostaticity and will help pull out more of the hair. Plenty of brushing in different directions will be required to accomplish the desired effect before the next step.
Step 2 - Softening Mist/Spray
Dilute 1 part fabric softener (20ml) to 175mls of water in a spray/misting bottle and lightly mist the carpet area. This will help loosen the hair from the carpet fibres before vacuuming. Hair Mitts are also useful to use in more matted areas.
- Repeat Step 1 if necessary before continuing on to step 3 -
Step 3 - Vacuuming (Empty and clean vacuum bristles and brushes before use for a more thorough clean)
This will remove the last hairs, but not all, before moving onto your next cleaning task on your list. Make sure you have made use of the attachments that are supplied with the vacuum to accomplish the task to full effect.
Additional advisory notes:
Baking Soda, Vanish Oxi Action Granules and Doctor Beckman products can assist with stubborn stains and odours if needs be. Equip yourself with a standard toothbrush, small mixing bowl and sponge for this task, making sure you leave the products to act for a bit before agitating and removal.
Consider a professional carpet cleaning service/provider that use specialised equipment and techniques and products if the problem persists.
I hope that this provides you all with a more satisfied approach to tasks involving pet hair so that you can spend more valuable time with them.
Thank you for watching, Clara x
