How to Clean a Clothes Dryer Vent

Clothes dryers function more efficiently when they are properly maintained. This includes regular cleaning of the lint filter to improve air circulation and decrease the risk of fire.

Things You'll Need

• Wire clothes hanger
• Scrub brush

Instructions

1. Locate the lint filter on your dryer. These are usually located at the bottom near the door. This filter should slide out easily for regular cleaning.

2. Remove the filter and clean by removing the lint by hand. If the holes in the screen are partially or fully plugged, clean the filter in warm, soapy water, and use a scrub brush to lift out the lint. A old toothbrush is ideal for reaching small corners.

3. Inspect the area around the lint filter for lint build-up.

4. Shine a flashlight into the exhaust vent and inspect for lint.

5. Unplug the dryer and remove any lint that has slipped past the filter and into the exhaust vent by inserting a wire into the hole and removing built-up lint. A coat hanger works well for this. Simply untwist the wire hanger at the hook and bend the wire to the desired angle for cleaning. Create a slight hook at the end to make lint removal easier.

6. Replace the lint filter and check to make sure it fits snugly. Gaps between the filter and the dryer body will allow lint to slip past the filter and into the exhaust vent. If your filter is damaged, warped, or does not fit snugly, repair or replace the filter.

7. Clean the filter after every load of clothes to keep it free of build-up and to increase the efficiency of your dryer.