People have used furniture in one form or another throughout history. At times, animals have, too. When they do, removing pet hair from furniture can be exasperating, at best. A few tips and tricks can help alleviate much of the headache.

Tape

Masking tape has been a stalwart remedy for removing pet hair from furniture, so much so that tape rolls are available commercially. It’s not necessary, however, to pay the extra money to easily remove pet hair using this tried-and-true method.

Tear off approximately six inches of tape and carefully curl the ends back onto themselves with the adhesive edge to the outside. Slip fingers into the tape circle and systematically pat the tape firmly on the furniture material until the pet hair is removed. Occasionally, turn the tape around the fingers to allow a clean tape surface to pick up the remaining hair.

Brooms

Small whisk brooms are effective in tidying up furniture after a pet has lain on it all day.

Short, light strokes gather pet hair into clumps or balls, enabling easy pick-up. When the material is worn, take care to avoid stretching the material with heavy strokes.

Vacuum

While it’s rarely convenient to lift a full vacuum onto couches, chairs, and beds, hand-held vacuums optimize removing pet hair quickly.

Ensure the suction is sufficient but not too high that the material tears. Watch the beater bar and avoid undue stress on the heirloom settee. Make sure loose threads do not coil themselves around the rotating bar and brushes, causing or extending damage to the surface.

Shampoo

While not recommended for routine cleaning, shampooing furniture, so long as a gentle soap that doesn’t harm the material, can remove excessive pet hair. Always test the product first, even if it’s been used before without adverse effect. Material age, wear and tear, and even exposure to sunlight can change how furniture reacts to chemicals, even if performed by professionals.

Summary

Whether the furniture owner uses simple or complex methods, regular cleaning of furniture can help maintain its appearance and extend its life. Removing pet hair extends both quite well and needn’t be a major expense or drudgery if cleaning is done routinely. Just a few minutes can save hundreds of dollars over a pet’s shedding life.