Fires that begin from lint-cloggedclothes dryer ventscause lots of home fire damage each year.

Accumulated lintand dust are the top cause of dryer fires, far ahead of wiring problems or other issues.

Doing this helps prevent fires and improve airflow so your clothes will dry more quickly.

Side view of someone cleaning the interior of a dryer

The Spruce / Sarah Lee

If there isresiduein the dryer drum, clean it away immediately.

The drum should also be cleaned after clothes contaminated withpesticides, chemicals, orpoison ivy residuehave been dried.

An equal parts water and white vinegar solution is a DIY good option.

Materials to clean a dryer

The Spruce / Sarah Lee

A thorough wipe-down will ensure that all detergent residue and lint are removed.

To cleanducts and ventscorrectly, read the owner’s manual for the best advice.

Some machines are simpler and safer than others for the DIY cleaning expert.

Person cleaning the dryer lint trap

The Spruce / Sarah Lee

Annual vent and duct cleaning can help eliminate fire hazards and allergens.

When in doubt, hire a pro.

How Often Should You Clean Your Dryer?

Cleaning the dryer duct work

The Spruce / Sarah Lee

As with any appliance, a bit of TLC goes a long way.

Doing so can prolong the life of the machine and make it more effective year on year.

A monthly wipe-down of the exterior knobs and door handles is wise to reduce germ transfer.

Removing lint from the dryer lint trap

The Spruce / Sarah Lee

Use a gentle bristle brush to lightly scrub away any fibers trapped in the screen.

Air dry thoroughly before returning it to its slot for use.

Annual vent and ductwork cleaning is ideal.

Wiping down the interior of the dryer with a microfiber cloth

The Spruce / Sarah Lee

Make a sanitizing cleaning solution by mixing 1/4 cup of bleach with a quart of water.

If you prefer to avoid bleach, use pine oil, phenolic disinfectant, or quaternary disinfectant.

Vinegar is an odor neutralizer; make a solution of one part vinegar to two parts warm water.

Reinserting the clean lint trap

The Spruce / Sarah Lee

Wipe down every inch of the inside of the drum and allow it to air dry.

Clothes Dryer Fire Safety Outreach Materials.U.S.

Pouring rubbing alcohol onto a cloth

The Spruce / Sarah Lee

Cleaning the ink off of the dryer drum

The Spruce / Sarah Lee