How to Clean the Clothes Dryer and Vents

It is very important to clean the clothes dryer and vents to prevent fires. Not only can the lint build up in the vent piping, it builds up in the dryer underneath the lint trap. Keeping the lint trap clean after every dryer operation is important, but every 3 or 4 months, one should clean out under the lint trap. The venting pipe should be cleaned once a year as well as the vent cover on the outside of the house.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Vacuum cleaner or air hose

1. Clean out the lint trap in the dryer itself. Remove the lint trap and clean the lint from underneath the lint trap that has accumulated. A vacuum cleaner can be used to clean out the lint underneath the lint trap or if a hand fits into the hole, you could reach down inside and clean out the lint.

2. Remove the back of the dryer every 2 to 3 years to thoroughly clean the inside of the dryer. The lint can accumulate everywhere and monthly cleaning under the lint trap does not always get the lint that settles toward the back of the dryer.

3. Disconnect the vent piping from the back of the dryer that leads to the outside. This needs to be done yearly to ensure there is no lint build up. Use an air hose on one side while someone holds a bag on the other end over the vent hole to catch the dust and lint. A vacuum cleaner can be used instead of an air hose if the wand is long enough.

4. Clean the vent to the outside where lint can build up and prevent the air from venting. This may require vacuuming or washing depending on the extent of the lint build up.

5. Reattach the vent piping to the outside vent. Reattach the vent pipe to the back of the dryer. Make sure that everything is sealed tight so no lint dust can escape during use.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep the lint trap clean after every load.
• Do not forget to vacuum by the dryer motor when doing the internal cleaning.
• Fires can result if the vent piping and interior of the dryer are not kept lint free.