Pet Hair on Carpets
“I went to the store to buy a carpet rake... but it’s HARD plastic. Kind of like a regular rake? I thought they were rubber bristles that attracted hair and fur. I could've sworn I saw someone using a rubber squeegee for this online once.
What should I use to "rake” pet hair off my floors? Y’all these dogs are killing me.”
— Hair Hater
So you’ve got pet hair problems? Step one is breathe: everyone with pets have pet hair problems! You are not alone and this is nothing to be ashamed of. Let’s talk about the rake you bought (and the other rake that you actually need).
What you Bought
A "carpet rake" is what you found, with the hard bristles. It actually isn't for removing hair. It is for after the carpet has been cleaned. A professional technician will rake the carpet fibers back into the natural direction they are designed to sit in. This helps the carpet dry evenly, maintains the strength of the fibers, and protects the longevity of the carpet. These are typically only available at janitorial supply stores.
What you Need
A rubber broom does attract pet hair and human hair. It is designed to be used before vacuuming / carpet cleaning to remove excess hair from the fibers.
Steps for the Best Hair Removal
“Sweeping:” Use the dry rubber broom to remove hairs. Pull the brush towards you, lift and then place away from you. Picture the way you use a rake— you use this broom the same way. Do not brush front and back or side to side— this will allow the bristles to let go of the hair it collected.
Edging: edge the carpets with your hose attachment. Be careful to get under and around furniture too.
Vacuuming: vacuum the center of the room back and forth and then follow it by going left to right.
Vacuuming for Hair
Vacuum back and forth and then left to right. The extra pass helps agitate the fibers in a different direction so they release the hair and soil better.
Amber Starling, Author
Founder and President of
Good Witch Cleaning Services, LLC
IICRC Journeyman Textile Cleaner