You can effectively remove hair from towels using methods like rubber gloves, lint rollers, or specialized brushes before laundering.
Here's a breakdown of different methods to tackle hair clinging to your towels:
Pre-Wash Hair Removal Techniques
These techniques are most effective before washing, as wet hair can be even harder to remove.
1. Rubber Gloves: The Go-To Method
- How it works: Dampen a rubber glove (like a dishwashing glove) with water. Run your gloved hand over the towel. The hair will cling to the rubber.
- Why it's effective: The slight tackiness of the damp rubber creates friction that lifts the hair.
- Best for: All types of hair (pet and human).
2. Lint Rollers: A Sticky Solution
- How it works: Use a standard lint roller to roll over the surface of the towel. The adhesive will pick up loose hairs.
- Why it's effective: Simple and quick for surface-level hair removal.
- Best for: Light to moderate amounts of hair.
3. Clothes Brush or Pet Hair Brush: Bristle Power
- How it works: Use a clothes brush or a brush specifically designed for pet hair removal. Brush the towel in one direction to gather the hair.
- Why it's effective: The bristles agitate the fibers and dislodge the hair.
- Best for: Looser hair and larger areas.
4. Dryer Sheets: Static Cling Solution (Before Washing)
- How it works: Rub a dryer sheet over the surface of the towel. The dryer sheet can help to loosen hair by reducing static cling.
- Why it's effective: Helps loosen the hair so the wash cycle will remove it more easily
- Best for: Light amounts of hair
Washing Machine Tips
While the above methods focus on pre-treating, these tips can help minimize hair redepositing during the wash cycle:
- Shake it out: Before placing the towels in the washing machine, vigorously shake them outdoors to remove loose hair.
- Mesh Laundry Bags: Washing towels in mesh laundry bags can help contain the hair and prevent it from spreading to other items.
- Vinegar Rinse: Adding a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle can help loosen hair and reduce static cling.
- Clean the Lint Trap: Make sure your washing machine's lint trap is clean before and after washing hair-covered items. This prevents hair from recirculating.
Dryer Tips
- Dryer Sheets (During Drying): Use dryer sheets during the drying cycle to help attract and trap hair.
- Clean the Lint Trap (Again!): Clean the lint trap after each dryer cycle.
By combining these methods, you can keep your towels fresh and hair-free!