How to Clean Your Dryer Vent

Even if you’re diligent about emptying the lint screen, small fibers will get through the trap and into your dryer vent. Left unchecked, this lint can slowly snowball, to the point where an errant spark could lead to a serious conflagration inside the vent. That’s why it’s critical to clean the dryer vent every few months or so, depending on usage and the type of laundry you dry. (Drying sweaters or towels will put more strain on your appliance than drying cotton items.)

It’s a pretty simple task, assuming you can access the dryer vent by pulling the dryer away from the wall (if not, you’ll need to hire a professional). Always disconnect the dryer from its power source before moving it. Then separate the vent from the dryer and vacuum both ends using the crevice attachment of your vacuum.

Don’t forget to also clean the back of your dryer (where lint can build up) and ensure the duct isn’t damaged, crushed, or restricted. You (or a professional) should also clean out the length of the duct, to where it exhausts outside. This is especially important if you have an accordion-style vent that can sag and capture lint in its ribs. (A rigid metal duct provides better airflow.) Make sure your outside vent cover opens while the dryer is operating and you can feel air flowing through it.

If your dryer takes too long to dry, check for a vent blockage. Many dryers have a duct blockage indicator that signals when it’s time to clean the vent.