About Dryer Lint Traps

Dryer lint traps may seem like such small and inconsequential items, but they are one of the main reason a dryer continues to work properly. Dryers come with specific lint traps that don't always last the lifetime of the dryer. Regular maintenance and even replacement are necessary, with the replacement lint trap usually coming from the dryer manufacturer or a specialized appliance store since each trap is specifically designed to fit particular machines. Universal traps are another option, but they are meant to work with, not replace, the existing traps.

Function

Dryer lint traps are one of the most important features of any dryer because of the job they do. They collect all the random lint, fuzzy stuff, thread and other debris that comes off the materials being dried. This hefty function insures the lint does not clog up the dryer's insides, cause it to overheat or burst into flames.

Features

Most dryer lint traps feature a plastic frame that holds a thin screen. The frame can be in a variety of shapes, customized to fit each particular dryer. The screen should fit flush to the frame. Some lint traps are slid into a compartment at the top of the dryer, while others are found inside, often at the inner base of the dryer door. They are not interchangeable between different types of dryers, and new ones must be ordered for the specific make and model of the dryer.

Prevention/Solution

Cleaning the lint trap often is the best way to keep the dryer running smoothly. While some folks may think they can wait to clean off the lint trap until a laundry load is fully dry, it may often need to be cleaned while a load is still drying. Heavy materials, such as terry cloth, thick acrylics, rugs, mats and towels, will give off a lot of lint that can clog up a lint trap way before the drying is done. The lint should be scraped off the screen carefully and softly as to not damage the thin and fragile unit.

Warning

Lint traps that are damaged, torn or not cleaned off often pose a major fire hazard. Those that are clogged will not allow the heat to escape, which could cause a dryer breakdown. Those with holes or tears will not catch all the lint, and much of it will end up in the dryer's innards, further destroying the machine. Even lint traps that that are fully intact will not catch everything. Folks should regularly clean out the bin in which the lint trap sits, either with a long, thin vacuum attachment or a stick covered in fabric that can scoop out any wayward lint.

Considerations

Dryer lint traps that fit snugly into a specialized compartment are not the only way lint is collected from the machine. The exhaust hose that leads from the dryer to an outside ventilation area also serves to catch some lint, whether it is meant to or not. Regular maintenance of the hose and outdoor lint grating is in order to keep a dryer working properly. The outside grating can be vacuumed and brushed of any debris. The tubing can be disconnected and lint collections scooped or vacuumed out. Universal lint traps, which include the hose and a small box for indoor use, can replace the outdoor vent, but it too needs to be cleaned regularly for optimum performance.