How to Deal with Dog Shedding: Tips for Maintaining a Clean Home

If you have a dog, chances are you’ve dealt with shedding—unless you have a truly hypoallergenic breed that doesn’t shed at all (lucky you!). For most pet owners, though, fur on floors, furniture, and clothing is just part of life. The good news is that with proper grooming, the right tools, and a consistent cleaning routine, you can keep shedding under control and maintain a cleaner home. Here’s how to keep your home as fur-free as possible—without losing your mind in the process.

Keep Up With Fido’s Grooming

The best way to stop fur from taking over your home is to catch it at the source. Regular grooming not only keeps your dog’s coat healthy but also drastically reduces the amount of hair floating around your house. In addition to regular baths, brushing your dog regularly is one of the best ways to reduce excess shedding. Long-haired, double-coated dogs shed heavily in spring and fall, so daily brushing during these seasons helps reduce loose fur and dander. Short-haired breeds shed year-round but still benefit from routine brushing and occasional baths.

Get the Proper Tools

Investing in the right gear can make a world of difference when it comes to tackling dog hair. Here are some essential items to get you started.

Invest in a High-Quality Vacuum

Not all vacuums are created equal—especially when it comes to pet hair. Look for one with strong suction and attachments designed for pet hair so you can easily clean carpets, furniture, and hard-to-reach areas. Or, if you want one that will do some of the work for you, invest in a pet-friendly robot vacuum that will clean while you’re gone.

Add a Humidifier to Your Home

A humidifier can do more than just improve air quality—it also helps reduce the amount of pet hair sticking to surfaces. Dry air causes static electricity, making fur cling to furniture, clothing, and even walls. Adding moisture to the air helps minimize this effect, making cleanup much easier.

Protect Furniture with Washable Covers

If your dog has a favorite spot on the couch or bed, covering it with a washable blanket or furniture cover is a simple and effective way to manage hair buildup. These covers prevent dog hair from becoming embedded in your furniture, which is an easy way to keep your furniture in good shape. Simply toss these covers in the washing machine every few days to keep them fresh.

Create a Shedding-Friendly Cleaning Routine

A consistent cleaning schedule designed around your dog’s shedding habits will make a huge difference in keeping your home tidy.

Clean Hardwood Floors Daily

Hardwood floors are a magnet for dog fur. Vacuuming them daily is the best way to prevent fur-covered floors, but some dog owners may be fine only vacuuming a few times a week. It’s important to sweep or mop hardwood floors before reaching for the vacuum since this collects the majority of the hair ahead of time.

Wash Bedding Every Week

If your dog sleeps in your bed, chances are your sheets, blankets, and pillowcases are collecting a decent amount of fur. The same is true about your pup’s beds and blankets, which trap just as much hair (if not more). To prevent bedding from accumulating too much fur, it’s best to wash it frequently—at least once a week.

Use Lint Rollers and Damp Cloths for Quick Cleanups

Keep lint rollers in high-traffic areas like your entryway, living room, and car. They’re a quick and easy way to remove dog hair from clothing, cushions, and other soft surfaces. A damp, microfiber cloth is also good to have on hand since it’s great for wiping down surfaces where pet hair tends to stick.

While you can’t stop shedding entirely, the right approach can help you keep it under control. With regular grooming, the right tools, and a solid cleaning routine, you can prevent dog fur from taking over your home. These tips will help make Fido’s shedding manageable so you can focus on what really matters: spending time with your four-legged best friend!