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Caring For Your Appliances When You Have Pets

September 3, 2025 · 5 min read

Caring For Your Appliances When You Have Pets

Pets bring joy, companionship and plenty of fur into our lives. We wouldn't trade them for the world, but their shedding, dander and messes take a toll on household appliances. With a little routine care, you can keep your home clean, efficient and pet-friendly.

Step 1: Keep your washing machine fur-free

Washing pet bedding or a fur-covered sweater leaves hair lingering inside the drum, which over time causes clogs and drainage issues.

  • Shake off pet hair before loading — a lint roller or quick vacuum helps
  • Use a pet hair remover laundry tool to trap fur before it clogs the machine
  • Run an empty hot cycle with white vinegar once a month to clear residue

Step 2: Keep your vacuum pet-ready

Your vacuum is your best friend against pet fur, but without maintenance it clogs and loses suction.

  • Empty the bin frequently to prevent hair buildup
  • Clean or replace filters regularly
  • Use a pet-friendly brush attachment for stubborn fur

Step 3: Protect your refrigerator from pet messes

Pets can be messy eaters, and their food spills and odors linger.

  • Store pet food in sealed containers
  • Wipe shelves weekly with baking soda and water
  • Check and clean the fridge's air filter to keep it fresh

Step 4: Maintain your dryer

Like the washer, a dryer clogged with pet fur loses efficiency and can become a fire hazard.

  • Clean the lint trap after every load
  • Use dryer balls to catch hair and reduce static
  • Vacuum the vent system every few months to prevent blockages

Additional tips for pet owners

A pet-friendly home is a happy home — it just needs a little extra TLC.

  • Run an air purifier to reduce dander and allergens
  • Brush your pet regularly to cut shedding at the source
  • Use cord protectors — pets love to chew appliance wires

Questions about your dog?

Our Santa Rosa team is happy to help — call or stop by for a tour.