Would Trying This Viral Dryer Lint Cleanout Method Be A Mistake? Here's What We Know

Most people know to clean their lint screens after doing laundry, but sometimes, a deeper cleaning is necessary. The lint can squeeze past the screen and get stuck in the lint trap and hard-to-access areas around it. Occasionally cleaning your lint trap, lint trap compartment, and vent is important to reduce hidden fire hazards in your home. One DIY method for removing lint involves using a screwdriver to take out the lint trap system to access the bottom interior of the dryer. If you are wondering if this is dangerous, you will be happy to know that this is generally a safe way to clean a dryer with a lint trap located in the drum, provided you follow important safety guidelines.

This cleaning can become dangerous under some circumstances. Damaging any components, forgetting items inside, and incorrectly replacing pieces can lead to fires and other problems. So, before tackling this cleaning task for your dryer, unplug and disconnect it from any power source. If your dryer uses gas, turn off and disconnect the gas valve. Use a correctly sized screwdriver, and choose cleaning items that will grab lint without causing damage to the appliance. Be gentle while cleaning to avoid scraping or dislodging anything inside the dryer, and make sure you do not leave any items inside. Precisely replace all screws when you are finished. If you do not feel confident at any point or notice that the lint and dust build-up is severe, stop and call a professional to ensure that the dryer is thoroughly cleaned and free of any problems that may cause excessive lint build-up in the dryer.

Lint removal is necessary to prevent fires, as dust and lint are the main causes of dryer fires. Additionally, excess lint can harm your dryer's efficiency. So, to best take care of your dryer and prevent fires, you should clean the lint trap after every use, regularly clean any accessible places, and have a professional take the dryer apart and clean the unit every few years. Professional dryer vent cleanings typically cost between $100 and $150, and while some include taking apart and cleaning the dryer, not all do. Doing the job yourself can save you some money, but since dryers are potential fire hazards, it is smart to be cautious.

TikToker sarahmakesmelaugh explains how to take apart a dryer with a lint trap system in the drum for a deep clean. First, take photos before disassembling if you are worried about forgetting any pieces. Then, remove the screws holding the lint trap system in place on your front load dryer. Once you remove the system, you should have access to a deeper part of the dryer. Inside, you will probably see excess lint, sand, and dirt that can be carefully removed. Be sure to check all the small spaces; you may even want to get into small spaces with tweezers, a brush, or a duster. Using a vacuum with a hose attachment can help you collect all of the dirt, dust, sand, and lint from the opening in the dryer. Once everything is cleaned to the best of your ability, replace the lint system, screwing everything back into place.

For front load dryers with lint trap systems on the top of the machine or the rare top load dryer, accessing the area around the lint trap system may be different and involve a more intensive disassembling process. For example, you may need to remove the back panel of the dryer for access. While many appliance repair companies and manufacturers suggest that it is okay for you to disassemble and reassemble a dryer for repairs, item retrievals, and cleanings both for dryers with lint traps in the drum and on the top of the machine, it can be tough for the inexperienced. You should call a professional if your dryer seems louder, vibrates more, has any strange smells, takes longer to dry clothes, or experiences other issues before or after the cleaning, as these can be related to higher fire risks.

If you do not want to take apart your dryer, you can still make progress on cleaning out the lint trap compartment. There are tons of gadgets that make cleaning dryer lint traps and vents easy, and it may be worth trying out some nifty tools before you resort to taking apart your dryer. Vacuum hose attachments, like this 2-Piece Dryer Vent Cleaner Kit for $12.99 on Amazon, can help you clean out your lint trap compartment without unscrewing anything. Just remember that this cleaning task is important for safety, so if you encounter any problems, it is worth finding a professional.