Tips & Tricks to Prevent Lint Build-Up

 

Since it isn't recommended to clean your dryer vents without the proper equipment or training, there are a number of ways to decrease the debris and lint associated with dryer usage instead.  Note that this does not replace the benefits of annually scheduled vent cleaning.

 

• Line-dry larger articles of clothing such as pillows and bedding fabrics whenever possible.

 

• Clean the inside of the dryer, especially near the lint trap. Use a standard household vacuum to clean the lint surrounding the dryer vent.

 

• Refrain from using your dryer for more than 30-40 minutes per cycle.  This reduces lint build-up by allowing air to circulate freely within the dryer.  If your dryer takes upwards of 40 minutes to dry your clothes, there is likely a blockage in your vent due to accumulation of lint.

 

• Ensure that the designated grated-style ventilation cap covers your vent opening.  This prevents any birds or small animals nesting, or taking shelter in your vent, respectively.  If your vent is broken, there is a considerable chance that birds or small animals have already found their way in.  If that is indeed the case, consult a specialist immediately.  Services such as the ones we provide, not only clean your dryer vent, but also replace any damaged dryer vent covers.

 

• If you are familiar with your dryer and possess a solid understanding of it, remove the back of the dryer and vacuum any stockpile of lint present.  This should only be done when your dryer has been safely disconnected from gas lines – if your dryer is in fact gas-powered – in order to maintain the safety of the household. 

 

• Liquid fabric softeners dump oils and chemicals into your dryer that can be absorbed by fabrics and become flammable, also, dryer sheet residue can be a cause of clogged lint filters.  Use liquid fabric softeners and dryer sheets conservatively to reduce these effects.

 

• Replace plastic or vinyl flexible transition ducts with a semi-rigid metal-transition duct.  Unlike semi-rigid metal-transition ducts, plastic or vinyl ducts are flammable.

 

• Don’t leave your dryer unattended; whether it is overnight or while no one is home.  Dryer-related fires often occur while no one is present during the drying cycle.