Cleaning the Laundry Room and Dryer Vent
The laundry room is one of the most neglected cleaning areas in Ontario homes — and the dryer vent specifically is a genuine safety hazard when not maintained. Lint accumulation in dryer vents is responsible for thousands of house fires annually across Canada.
Dryer Vent Cleaning — When and How
When: At minimum once per year. More frequently if you run multiple loads per day, dry bulky items like comforters, or notice the dryer taking longer than usual (a sign of restricted airflow).
Signs your vent needs cleaning: Clothes taking more than one cycle to dry; the dryer exterior is unusually hot to the touch; a burning smell during operation; the vent flap outside doesn't open fully when the dryer runs.
How to clean:
- Disconnect the dryer from power (unplug or turn off at the breaker)
- Disconnect the dryer duct from the back of the dryer
- Use a dryer vent brush kit (long flexible brush, available at Canadian Tire) to clean through the duct and out the exterior vent
- Vacuum the lint from inside the duct opening at the dryer and from the exterior vent
- Check the exterior vent flap — ensure it opens and closes freely
- Reconnect and run the dryer for a few minutes to verify airflow
General Laundry Room Cleaning
- Wipe down the exterior and top of washer and dryer monthly
- Clean the washing machine drum monthly — run an empty hot cycle with a cup of white vinegar or a washing machine cleaner tablet (OxiClean, Affresh)
- Wipe the detergent dispenser drawer — mould accumulates in the fabric softener compartment
- Sweep and mop the floor, including under the machines (pull them out quarterly)