Does your washing machine struggle to drain during the spin cycle? Does it make loud thumping noises when it’s running? If so, you may have a pet hair clog in your washing machine.
Pet hair is one of the most common causes of washing machine clogs, as it can easily get tangled in the pump and hoses and cause all sorts of problems.
How Does Pet Hair Clog a Washing Machine?
Pet hair is made up of tiny fibers which can become tangled and matted together when they come into contact with water and soap.
This creates a dense wad of fur that can clog hoses and pipes in the washing machine, preventing water from flowing freely throughout the appliance. If left unchecked, these clogs can cause major damage to the washer’s motor, pump, and other components.
It can also lead to water leaks from underneath your washing machine, which can damage your floors and other property.
The Most Common Causes of Clogs
As your laundry tumbles around in the washer, pet hair from your clothes can get trapped in the rubber gasket, which is located just underneath the lid of your machine.
The rubber gasket creates an airtight seal that prevents water from leaking out, but it also traps hair and debris that may be present on your clothing. This debris can eventually build up and cause a blockage that will prevent your washing machine from draining properly.
Lint from fabrics such as towels and bedding can also build up inside your washing machine’s pump over time and create a clog. If you’ve noticed that your clothes are coming out damp after each wash cycle, then this could be another sign that your washer is not draining properly.
What Can You Do to Prevent Pet Hair from Clogging Your Washing Machine?
There are a few things you can do to prevent pet hair from clogging your washing machine.
- One option is to regularly clean up any stray hairs that may be lurking around the washer or in the laundry room.
- You can also use a lint roller on your clothes before you put them into the washing machine, which can help remove any loose pet hair that may be clinging to your fabric.
- You can also consider investing in a special pet hair cleaning tool for your washing machine, which can help you keep the machine running smoothly and prevent clogging.
- Check your clothing pockets before putting items into the washer to ensure no small objects (like coins) are left behind. This can help prevent clogs and other damage to your washing machine.
While pet hair is a common culprit for clogged washing machines, it’s not the only thing that can cause problems. To keep your washer running smoothly and prevent clogs, it’s important to check your hoses and pipes regularly for any signs of damage or blockages.
Final Thoughts
Pet hair is one of the most common causes of clogged washing machines, but it doesn’t have to be an issue if you take steps to prevent it from happening in the first place.
Regularly cleaning out the rubber gasket and pump with hot soapy water or white vinegar mixed with baking soda will help keep them free of debris and reduce potential blockages in your system.
Before shoving your clothes into the washing machine, make sure to double-check all pockets for small objects like loose change or toothpicks. These items can easily get stuck in the pipes and cause clogs or other damage to the machine.
By taking these simple steps, you can help prevent pet hair clogs and keep your washing machine running smoothly for years to come.
