🔧 Guidebeginner
Clean Your Dryer Lint Trap and Filter
Regularly cleaning your dryer’s lint trap is essential for safety and efficiency. Learn how to properly clean the lint filter and trap area to keep your dryer running safely.
By SunFixes Tech Team
đź“… 10/9/2025
⏱️ 4 min read
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Time Required
5-10 minutes
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Difficulty
beginner
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Tools Needed
Vacuum with crevice attachment, Soft brush
⚠️ Safety Tips for Clean Your Dryer Lint Trap and Filter
- •Always clean the lint filter before or after every dryer load to minimize lint accumulation
- •Never run the dryer without the lint filter in place, as lint can enter the internal ducts and pose a fire risk
- •If you use dryer sheets, occasionally wash the lint screen with soap and water to remove softener residue that can clog it
# Clean Your Dryer Lint Trap and Filter
Every time you dry clothes, lint builds up in the lint filter. Cleaning it every load is important, but a periodic deep clean of the filter and trap area will further improve dryer performance and safety.
## Why Clean the Lint Trap?
- Prevent fire hazards by removing highly flammable lint buildup
- Improve drying efficiency and shorten drying times
- Extend the dryer’s lifespan by reducing strain on the motor
## Step-by-Step Instructions: Clear the Dryer Lint Trap
It’s simple to clean the lint filter and surrounding trap. Here’s how.
Step-by-Step Guide for Clean Your Dryer Lint Trap and Filter
1
Remove the Lint Filter
Locate your dryer’s lint filter (usually just inside the door or on top of the dryer). Pull it out completely.
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Most lint filters slide out easily. If yours is torn or damaged, consider replacing it to ensure it catches lint effectively.
2
Clear the Lint
Use your fingers or a soft brush to remove the layer of lint from the filter. Dispose of the lint in the trash. Get as much off as you can; it should peel off in a sheet or clumps.
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If the lint is very fine or there’s residue, you might rinse the screen with water. But be sure it’s dry before putting it back in the dryer.
3
Wash the Filter (Periodically)
Over time, dryer sheet residue can clog the mesh. If you’ve never washed the lint screen, give it a scrub in warm, soapy water. Use a soft brush to gently clean both sides, rinse thoroughly, and let it dry completely.
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Do not put a wet lint screen back into the dryer; running the dryer with a damp screen can cause mildew or block airflow. Ensure it’s fully dry.
4
Vacuum the Lint Trap Housing
With the filter out, use a vacuum cleaner’s crevice tool to remove any lint accumulated down in the slot where the filter sits. Vacuum around the door seal and any visible lint in the drum or vent as well.
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A flexible dryer lint brush can help reach further into the trap for more thorough cleaning. Surprising amounts of lint can get past the filter.
5
Wipe Around the Seal
Use a damp cloth to wipe around the dryer door opening where lint can cling. This keeps the seal clean and ensures a good seal when the door is closed.
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A bit of lint often sticks to the moisture sensor bars (if your dryer has them near the lint trap). Wipe those too, since buildup can affect sensor accuracy.
6
Replace the Lint Filter
Once everything is clean and the filter (if washed) is dry, slide the lint filter back into its slot. The dryer is now ready for use.
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Maintain this routine: remove lint every load, and do a deeper clean of the filter and trap monthly. This keeps your dryer safe and efficient.
🔧 When to Call a Professional for Clean Your Dryer Lint Trap and Filter
If drying is slow, there may be lint accumulation beyond the filter, such as in the dryer’s internal ducts or vent hose, which a professional can clean out to restore airflow. Damaged lint filters or seals should be replaced to ensure lint goes where it should (into the filter, not inside the dryer). A technician can also do a comprehensive lint removal from hard-to-reach areas if needed.
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Signs it's time to call us for Clean Your Dryer Lint Trap and Filter
- •The lint filter or slot is damaged or excessively clogged and cleaning isn’t enough
- •The dryer still takes too long to dry even with a clean filter (could indicate further blockage in the vent system)
- •You see significant lint buildup inside the dryer cabinet or around the drum seal
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