Removing Cat Fur From Clothes: A Quick Guide

Cats are wonderful pets, but their fur sticking to your clothes can be frustrating. Luckily, there are several ways to remove cat fur from fabrics, and prevent it from clinging in the first place. Here are some of the best methods to get rid of cat fur from your clothes.

Lint rollers

Reusable lint rollers are a good option if you have a cat that sheds a lot of fur, as they can be rinsed and reused, making them more eco-friendly and cost-effective than disposable rollers. However, they can be time-consuming to clean and may not be as effective on surfaces other than clothing.

When using a lint roller, it is important to roll it in one direction to effectively pick up the fur. You may need to roll the surface multiple times to ensure all the fur is removed. Additionally, some types of lint rollers may leave residue or alter the texture of certain fabrics, so it is important to test them on a small area first.

Washable, reusable lint rollers

To use a washable lint roller, simply roll it over the desired surface to pick up lint, fur, or hair. Once the roller's surface is covered, rinse it with warm water and mild soap to remove the debris. Some rollers may also come with a protective plastic sleeve to keep the sticky surface clean during storage.

Washable lint rollers come in various sizes, from large rollers with extendable handles to small, portable travel-sized rollers that can fit in your purse. They are typically easy to clean and dry quickly, making them a convenient option for removing cat fur from clothes.

While these rollers are reusable and reduce waste, they may require more time and effort to clean than traditional lint rollers. Additionally, some users have reported that the stickiness of the roller diminishes over time, especially after multiple washes.

When choosing a washable lint roller, consider the type of surface you will be using it on, as well as the size and portability that best suit your needs. Overall, washable, reusable lint rollers are a great option for removing cat fur from clothes and other surfaces in a cost-effective and environmentally friendly manner.

Anti-static sprays

You can buy anti-static sprays at most large retailers, or you can make your own at home. To make your own, simply combine two tablespoons of fabric softener with one cup of water and a tablespoon of rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle. Shake well to combine. It's important to note that you should use a small amount of fabric conditioner when making your own, as it can increase flammability and could stain.

When using an anti-static spray, it's best to apply it liberally to any areas with hair. You can also use it in combination with another removal method, like a lint roller or vacuum, for maximum effectiveness.

In addition to preventing cat hair from sticking to your clothes, anti-static sprays can also help minimize the electric shocks you may experience when petting your cat.

Vacuuming

Handheld vacuums are ideal for gently pulling out hair from clothes without the heavy weight of a full-size vacuum. They are also perfect for removing pet hair from carpets and other soft furnishings.

While vacuuming is an effective method for removing cat fur from upholstery, it may not be as successful on clothes, especially loose fabrics like bedding, which can be challenging to vacuum without the material being pulled.

To enhance the effectiveness of vacuuming, consider using an anti-static spray on the fabric beforehand. This will help to prevent the static that attracts cat fur to your clothes. You can make your own anti-static spray by combining two tablespoons of fabric softener, one cup of water, and a tablespoon of rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle.

Additionally, regular vacuuming of your floors and furniture can help prevent cat fur from embedding in your clothes.

Pet brushes

Types of Pet Brushes

• Reusable Lint Rollers: These rollers are designed to pick up loose fur from your clothes without leaving sticky residue. They are budget-friendly and eco-friendly but may require more time and effort, especially for heavily soiled garments.
• Lint Rakes: A variation of the lint roller, lint rakes have a unique design that may be more effective for certain fabrics.
• Tacky Rollers: These rollers use sticky sheets to pick up pet hair. While effective, they can be messy and leave glue residue on certain fabrics.
• Peel and Stick Rollers: Similar to tacky rollers, these rollers use sticky sheets but may be less likely to leave residue.
• Brush Lint Rollers: These rollers use a brush-like surface to catch and remove fur by brushing it in a specific direction, rather than using sticky tape.
• Pet Brushes: Using a pet brush designed for your cat's fur can be an effective way to remove fur from your clothes. Silicone brushes, in particular, can be useful due to their static-generating properties, attracting and removing fur from your clothing.

Additional Tips

• Rubber Gloves: Using rubber or silicone kitchen gloves, move your hand in a circular motion on the fabric. The gloves will grip the fur and roll it into a ball that can be easily removed.
• Vacuums: Handheld vacuums designed for pet hair can be an effective way to remove fur from clothing without the bulk of a full-size vacuum.
• Anti-Static Spray: Using an anti-static spray can help reduce the amount of cat hair that sticks to your clothes by neutralising static electricity.
• Brushing Your Cat: Regularly brushing your cat with a soft silicone brush can help reduce shedding and, consequently, the amount of loose fur that ends up on your clothes.
• Washing and Drying: Before washing your clothes, put them in the dryer on a no-heat setting to loosen the cat hair, which will then be captured in the lint screen.

Frequently asked questions