How to Clean a Dryer Lint Screen

Dryer sheets leave a film on the lint screen that can lead to problems with your dryer. This film blocks the air flow, which means the dryer has to use more energy and the heating unit is more likely to burn out sooner. Keeping the dryer lint screen clean will keep it working well and nearly double the life of the dryer. If you’ve tried cleaning with no success, you may just need to tweak your approach. Try this method to keep your dryer working at top performance.

You Will Need:

• Dish soap
• Old toothbrush or nylon scrubbing brush
• Hot water
• Sink, tub or bucket
• Soft towel

Steps to Clean the Lint Trap:

1. Begin by filling a sink, tub or bucket with hot water. Whichever you choose, it should be large enough to allow the trap to soak.
2. Add a good amount of soap and agitate the water to mix.
3. Remove any loose lint from the lint trap. Wipe it with your hand or use a vacuum with attachments to remove it.
4. Place the lint trap into the hot water and allow it to soak.
5. Use the scrubbing brush to remove the loosened residue.
6. Rinse frequently to evaluate how much of the residue remains.
7. Continue soaking and scrubbing until the film is removed.
8. Rinse completely with clean water.
9. Dry the screen carefully with a soft towel.
10. Allow it to air dry completely before placing it back into the dryer.

Additional Tips and Advice

• Dryer sheets are known for causing increased clogging on the lint screen. Clean it once every 6-8 weeks for best performance. If using liquid fabric softener, clean the screen 2-3 times a year.
• Clean the lint screen after each load of laundry.
• Remove all loose lint from the lint trap and ducts several times a year. This keeps your dryer in good working order and will help prevent fires.