The Complete Guide on How to Clean a Dryer for Optimal Function

Why is Dryer Maintenance so Important?

Dryers enable you to finish several loads of laundry throughout the day while saving time. During regular use, your dryer becomes an ideal environment for bacteria growth and collects dust and lint within its system. Performance decreases as lint and debris accumulate over time. The primary source of home fires comes from lint-obstructed vents, which endanger you and your loved ones.

Cleaning your dryer becomes essential to preserve energy efficiency while shortening drying periods and maintaining home safety. Cleaning your dryer regularly will improve airflow through the machine while keeping your clothes in better shape and reducing future expensive repairs.

Supplies and Tools:

• Fill a spray bottle with a mixture of water and vinegar
• Mild Detergent
• Soft cleaning brush 
• Isopropyl alcohol or all-purpose cleaner
• Vacuum
• Microfiber cloth and rags
• Rubber gloves

The availability of these items enables you to address each cleaning task for your dryer including lint removal and vent cleaning.

How to Clean a Dryer Step by Step

Follow this six-step guide on how to clean a dryer thoroughly from top to bottom.

1. Getting Ready

Safety requires unplugging your dryer from the wall socket before starting the cleaning process. If your dryer operates with gas, shut off the gas valve and detach the supply line pipe. Prioritising safety measures is essential when you learn how to clean a dryer.

2. Clean the lint filter

Make it a habit to clean the lint filter before or after every use. For a deeper clean, remove it from the dryer and use a vacuum or brush to clear out debris. Washing it in warm soapy water can also remove any leftover residue, making sure to rinse at the end. A clean lint filter promotes better airflow and shortens the duration of drying cycles.

3. Deep clean the drum

Spray the drum’s interior surface with a water and vinegar mixture and wipe using a microfiber cloth. To remove tough stains, apply rubbing alcohol or all-purpose cleaner in small quantities and wipe clean with a dry cloth. The cleaning process will refresh the drum surface and eliminate bacteria and any unpleasant smells.

4. Clean the dryer vent

Addressing the vent represents a crucial step when learning to clean a dryer. Use your vacuum hose to clear lint from both the vent and exhaust ducts. Clogged vents can become fire hazards, so this step is imperative and should be performed regularly.

5. Inspect the exterior

Clean the exterior of the dryer by wiping it down with a damp cloth and mild detergent to remove dust and grime. Pay particular attention to buttons, knobs and other frequently touched areas.

6. Perform a test run

After cleaning and drying all components, return the lint filter, connect the dryer to power and reconnect the gas hose for gas models before starting a brief drying cycle. The final test run demonstrates that the dryer cleaning process has been effective and ensures optimal dryer performance.

The Benefits of Regular Dryer Cleaning

Learning how to clean a dryer comes with a range of benefits. Routine care and maintenance of your dryer helps avoid fires while improving energy efficiency and prolonging the life of your appliance. Regular cleaning helps maintain your clothes in good condition and speeds up the drying process, saving you time and money.

By following these practical steps for how to clean a dryer, you’ll ensure that your appliance remains a reliable and safe part of your home and don’t forget your humble washing machine too!

At Simply Spotless we don’t offer laundry services, but we do specialise in professional cleaning to keep your home and appliances looking their best. Let our team of cleaning specialists handle the cleaning, so you have more time for the fun stuff in life. Visit our website and book our cleaning team today!