How do you Clean the Inside of A Dryer?

Cleaning the inside of your dryer means tackling lint and residue on the lint trap and screen, vents and drum. Gather the supplies and tools below, then read on for step-by-step instructions on how to clean a dryer vent, lint trap, drum and exterior

Supplies

• Microfiber cloth
• Water and vinegar spray
• Detergent
• Nylon brush

 

Supplies

• Dryer cleaning brush
• Vacuum with hose (optional)
• crewdriver

 

1. Remove lint from the lint trap

A lint-free trap provides better airflow for optimal performance, so a thorough clean can go a long way. To clean the lint trap:

• Remove the lint screen and set aside.
• Vacuum the interior and exterior of the lint trap with a vacuum crevice tool or brush.
• Vacuum the moisture sensor strips on the outside of the lint trap.
• Replace the lint screen.

2. Turn off and unplug dryer

Shutting off the power to the dryer while cleaning prevents accidental operation while parts are removed or disconnected, so unplug your dryer from the wall socket before you get started. If you have a gas dryer, close the shut-off valve in the gas supply line, then disconnect and cap the supply line pipe before cleaning.

3. Wipe residue off dryer drum

Dryer sheets and fabric softeners can contribute to a filmy residue on your dryer’s drum over time. Start cleaning by vacuuming out any debris. If your dryer is electric, rub the drum with a soft cloth dipped in warm water and dish soap. For a gas dryer, wipe down the inside with a liquid, nonflammable household cleaner. Then, for gas or electric, wipe out the drum with a wet sponge or towel and tumble a load of clean clothes or towels to dry the drum

4. Pull out the dryer to access vent duct

Create about one foot of room between the back of the dryer and wall to make space for clearing out debris. Enlist some help when moving the dryer to keep yourself and the dryer safe.

5. Remove clamps and detach vent

With the dryer away from the wall, unscrew vent clamps or remove tape attaching the vent to the back of the dryer. You may need a screwdriver to remove the clamps.

6. Clean debris from the vent

Your hands, a vent cleaning tool like this dryer cleaning brush from Whirlpool brand and a vacuum with a hose can work in tandem to get the inside of your dryer’s vent clean. Start by removing any large pieces of lint with your hands, then use a dryer cleaning brush to remove remaining lint from the vent. Next, use a vacuum hose attachment to collect lint or dust trapped in crevices.

7. Inspect and clean the exterior vent

You can find your dryer’s exterior vent outside of your home—typically on your home’s siding or roof. Clean the exterior by opening the vent cover and removing large pieces of lint with your hand. Then run a dryer cleaning brush along the inside of the ductwork and remove remaining lint or debris with a vacuum hose.

8. Reattach the vent and turn on the dryer

Head back inside and re-clamp or re-tape the venting to the back of the dryer. Plug your dryer back in and, if using a gas dryer, turn the gas valve back on.

9. Start an empty cycle

Get help to move the dryer back into place, then run the dryer on empty for 10-15 minutes to remove any excess dust from the system.