How To Clean Your Dryer: A Comprehensive Guide

Written by Brenda Woods Updated 12/04/2024

Cleaning your dryer helps it to perform better and leads to energy savings. It also reduces the risk of fire hazards. Read our guide to learn how to correctly clean your dryer, how to spot signs that your dryer needs cleaning, and which tools you’ll need to get the job done right.

Signs Your Dryer Needs Cleaning

The signs below mean your dryer needs a cleaning. It may need an inspection, too.

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. Hire a professional to inspect it.
Excessive heat: 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, you need to clean your dryer.
Longer drying times: If your laundry takes longer than usual to dry, you might have a clog in the vent or ductwork that’s restricting airflow.

Essential Tools for Dryer Cleaning

Once you’ve spotted one of the signs above, collect all the tools and supplies you’ll need to clean. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and more efficient.

Cleaning Supplies

Safety Equipment

Dust mask
Flashlight
Work gloves

Step-by-Step Guide To Clean Your Dryer

Follow these steps to thoroughly clean your dryer:

Cleaning the Lint Trap

Locate the lint trap, which is typically near the dryer door.
Remove visible lint by hand and dispose of it in the trash.
Use a vacuum with a hose attachment to remove any remaining lint in the trap area.
Wash the lint screen with warm, soapy water once a month to remove any buildup.
Allow the screen to dry completely before reinserting it.

Cleaning the Dryer Vent

Unplug the dryer and pull it away from the wall.
Disconnect the vent hose from the dryer and the wall.
Use a dryer vent brush to remove lint from inside the hose and the wall vent.
Vacuum any lint that falls during the cleaning process.
Reconnect the vent hose to both the dryer and the wall.

Cleaning the Dryer Drum

Wipe down the inside of the drum with a damp cloth soaked in warm, soapy water or white vinegar.
Create a paste using baking soda and water. Apply it to especially stubborn stains, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe it clean.
Dry the drum with a clean, dry microfiber cloth.

Cleaning the Exterior

Wipe down the exterior of the dryer with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris.
Clean the control panel, but be careful not to let moisture seep into any electronic components.
Clean around the door seal and make sure it closes properly.

How To Deep Clean a Dryer

Follow the steps below to deep clean your dryer to address more specific types of issues:

Removing Stubborn Stains

For ink stains:

1. Run the empty dryer for a few minutes to warm the drum.

2. Apply rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth and dab the stain. Work from the outside toward the center.

3. Wipe the area clean with a damp cloth and dry it.

For wax or gum:

1. Allow the substance to harden.

2. Scrape off as much as you can with a dull knife or credit card.

3. Use ice to harden any remaining residue. Scrape it off.

4. Clean the area with a damp cloth and dry.

Deodorizing Your Dryer

Follow the steps below to eliminate any odor you notice.

Mix equal parts baking soda and water to form a paste.
Apply the paste to the inside of the drum and let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
Wipe clean with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly.
Run an empty cycle with a few clean towels to absorb any remaining moisture and odors.

Preventive Maintenance Tips for Dryers

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

Avoid overloading the dryer, which will cause your clothes to tumble less efficiently. It can also increase drying times and cause more lint shedding.
Clean the lint trap after every drying cycle.
Empty your pockets before you dry your clothes. Items, such as tissues or coins, can clog the lint trap.
Limit your use of dryer sheets, which leave a residue in the drum that builds up over time. Use dryer balls instead.
Line dry items when you can. You will use less energy.
Schedule professional duct cleaning annually, especially if you have a long or complex duct system.
Wash your clothes thoroughly before you put them in the dryer. Dirt, sand, and pet hair can cause buildup.

Troubleshooting Common Dryer Issues

You may encounter some of the common dryer problems below, even if you clean your dryer regularly and thoroughly. Keep reading to learn how to properly address them.

Strange Noises

A dryer that makes unusual sounds might point to mechanical issues. Read how to address different sounds and issues below.

Scraping: This might indicate that a foreign object is caught in the drum seal.
Squealing: Squealing may suggest that a drum belt has worn out.
Thumping: Worn drum support rollers may cause thumping.

Failure To Heat

Follow the directions below if you’re dryer isn’t producing heat.

See if the thermal fuse has blown. If it is, you’ll need to schedule professional repair.
Make sure you’ve properly plugged the power cord in.
Make sure the temperature setting is correct.

When To Call a Professional

Homeowners can usually clean their own dryers, but the situations below may call for professional services:

For annual inspections of your entire duct system, especially if it’s long or has many bends
If you notice a persistent burning smell even after you’ve cleaned the dryer
If you’re uncomfortable accessing or cleaning any part of the dryer
When your dryer continues underperforms even though you’ve properly maintained it

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, or 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 you put 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.

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