Everything To Know About Cleaning Your Dryer

Regularly cleaning your dryer improves its efficiency, extends its lifespan, and prevents dryer fires. Our guide below outlines which tools you’ll need and how frequently to clean.

Written by Brenda Woods Updated 11/20/2024

A clogged dryer vent can lead to longer drying times and higher energy bills for homeowners. It can even become a fire hazard. Regularly cleaning all the components in your dryer can help it run more efficiently and safely, and it’s a simple household chore. Learn everything you need to know about cleaning your dryer in our guide below, which includes a step-by-step tutorial for do-it-yourself cleaning, a list of tools you’ll need, and tips to keep your dryer lasting longer.

How Often To Clean Your Dryer

Your clothes dryer consists of various parts. Here’s how frequently you should clean each of them:

Dryer lint trap: Clean it after every drying cycle.
Vent hose: Clean it every three months.
Dryer ducts: Hire a professional to clean them annually.
Drum: Wipe it down every month or as needed.

Signs It’s Time To Clean Your Dryer

The following signs may mean your dryer needs a cleaning—or even an inspection.

Burning smell: A burning odor is a serious red flag and could mean you’re at risk of a dryer fire. Stop the dryer immediately, and have a professional inspect it.
Hot to the touch: If the exterior of your dryer feels hot to the touch after a drying cycle, it might be struggling to vent hot air through a vent clog.
Lint buildup around the dryer vent: If lint is building up around the trap, it’s time to clean your dryer.
Longer drying times: If your laundry takes longer than usual to dry, it could mean you have a clog in the vent or ductwork that’s restricting airflow.

Tools and Materials Needed for Dryer Cleaning

Here’s what you’ll need to clean your dryer:

Damp cloth
Flashlight
Lint roller
Long-handled lint brush or vent-cleaning tool
Mild dish soap or white vinegar
Screwdriver
Vacuum cleaner with hose attachment

Consider also buying a clothes dryer vent cleaning kit, which includes a dryer vent brush with an extendable handle and a vacuum hose adapter.

Step-by-Step Dryer Cleaning Process

Once you have gathered all your tools and materials, start cleaning your dryer. Follow the steps below, and remember to unplug your dryer before cleaning anything other than the lint trap.

Cleaning the Lint Trap

Step 1: Locate the lint trap, which is usually near the dryer door.

Step 2: Pull out the lint trap, remove all the visible lint by hand, and dispose of it in the trash.

Step 3: Remove any lint buildup around the trap opening, and dispose of it in the trash.

Step 4: Use a hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner to remove any lint buildup in the crevices of your line trap.

Deep clean the lint trap by washing it in warm, soapy water and scrubbing it with a soft brush once a month. Let the trap dry completely before replacing it.

Cleaning the Vent and Ductwork

Step 1: Disconnect the dryer vent hose from the dryer outlet on the back of the dryer. This may require a screwdriver.

Step 2: Pull the vent hose out from the wall vent.

Step 3: Use the vent cleaning brush and vacuum cleaner hose attachment to remove lint from the hose. If you’re using a dryer vent cleaning kit, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 4: Locate the exterior vent opening outside of your home, and carefully remove any lint buildup with a long-handled brush or your hands.

If your ductwork is especially long or has a lot of bends, call a professional for help.

Cleaning the Interior Drum

Step 1: Wipe down the inside of the dryer drum with a damp cloth dipped in warm, soapy water or sprayed with white vinegar.

Step 2: Dry the drum thoroughly with a clean, dry microfiber cloth.

Dryer Drum Stain Removal

You only need to clean your dryer drum occasionally with mild soap or white vinegar. Act immediately, though, if you see spilled ink, melted wax, or dye after your clothes go through the washer. Follow the steps below to clean accordingly.

Removing Ink Stains

A forgotten pen or marker in your pants pocket is the most likely culprit for an ink stain on your dryer drum. Here’s how to get rid of it:

Step 1: Run the empty dryer for a few minutes to warm up the drum and loosen the ink.

Step 2: Apply rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth.

Step 3: Gently dab the stain, working from the outside toward the center.

Step 4: Change your cloth, and apply fresh rubbing alcohol frequently to prevent ink from spreading.

Step 5: Wipe the area clean with a damp cloth, and dry thoroughly before putting on a drying cycle.

Removing Wax or Gum

A melted crayon or a piece of forgotten chewing gum can leave a sticky mess in your clothes dryer. Here’s how to get rid of wax or gum:

Step 1: Allow the wax or gum to harden completely. You may need to avoid using the dryer for a little while.

Step 2: Scrape off as much of the wax or gum as you can with a dull butter knife or credit card.

Step 3: Harden any remaining residue with ice cubes, then scrape it off.

Step 4: Wipe the area clean with a damp cloth, and dry thoroughly.

Removing Dye Stains

Food dyes, hair dyes, and other types of dyes can stain your dryer. Here’s how to remove dye so it doesn’t stain your clothing:

Step 1: Soak some old towels in a mixture of three parts hot water and one part bleach.

Step 2: Wear protective gloves and eyewear, and wring towels until they are nearly dry.

Step 3: Put the towels in the dryer drum, and run the machine for 30 minutes on low heat.

The towels should soak up the dye and clean the drum. Repeat the process if necessary. If you have more stubborn dye stains, try this method:

Step 1: Mix a paste of equal parts baking soda and white vinegar.

Step 2: Apply the paste to the stains, and let it sit for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Scrub the stains with a damp cloth or soft brush. An old toothbrush works well for this job.

Step 4: Rinse with a clean, damp cloth, and let the drum completely dry.

Tips To Keep Your Dryer Clean Longer

Below are some tips to extend the lifespan of your dryer and reduce how frequently you need to deep clean it:

Avoid overloading the dryer, which will cause your clothes to tumble less efficiently and increase drying times and lint shedding.
Clean your clothes thoroughly before drying. Dirt, sand, and pet hair can contribute to buildup in the dryer.
Empty your pockets before drying your clothes. Tissues, coins, or other debris in your pockets can clog the lint trap and damage your dryer.
Limit your use of dryer sheets. Dryer sheets can reduce static cling, but they leave a residue in the drum that builds up over time. Consider using dryer balls instead.
Line dry items when you can. Consider skipping the dryer and air-drying your clothing instead. You’ll use less energy and put less stress on your clothes.

Our Conclusion

A clogged dryer can lead to longer drying times, higher energy bills, and an increased risk of fire. Regular dryer cleaning can help you to maintain the appliance’s efficiency and safety. Keep an eye out for dyes, stains, and lint buildup. We recommend calling a professional if there’s a part of your dryer you can’t clean or if you notice an issue that could be potentially hazardous.

FAQ About Dryer Cleaning

How often should I clean my dryer?

You should clean the lint trap after every drying cycle. Clean your vents and ductwork every year. Clean them more frequently if you have pets or do a lot of laundry.

How do I clean the lint trap in my dryer?

To clean the lint trap in your dryer, remove the lint screen and clean off any visible lint by hand. Scrub the lint trap with warm, soapy water and a soft brush once a month. Dry the trap thoroughly before putting it back in the dryer.

How do I remove ink stains from my dryer drum?

To remove ink stains from your dryer drum, blot the stain with rubbing alcohol and a clean cloth from the outside of the stain inward. Proceed to clean the area thoroughly, and allow it to dry completely.

What should I do if there’s a bad smell in my dryer?

If there’s a bad smell in your dryer, stop using it immediately. The smell may indicate mold, mildew, or a fire hazard. If the smell doesn’t disappear after you clean the dryer, consult a professional.

Can I use household items to clean my dryer?

Yes, you can use household items to clean your dryer, such as clean microfiber cloths, white vinegar, mild soaps, or a vacuum with a hose attachment. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage the dryer drum.

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.