How to Clean a Dryer and Lint Trap
Dryer fires are one of the leading causes of residential fires in Canada, and the overwhelming majority are caused by lint buildup — in the trap, the drum, and especially the exhaust duct. Lint is highly combustible, and even a partially clogged duct causes the dryer to overheat. This is a maintenance task with real safety implications.
Lint Trap — After Every Load
The lint screen should be cleaned after every single load — not every few loads, not weekly. Each load deposits visible lint on the screen, and running the dryer with a clogged screen increases drying time by 20–30% and raises the temperature inside the drum.
- Pull out the lint screen
- Peel off the lint with your fingers — it usually comes off in one piece
- If you use dryer sheets, the screen can develop an invisible wax film that reduces airflow. Test by holding the screen under running water: if water pools instead of flowing through, the film is present. Wash the screen with warm soapy water and a soft brush, rinse, and let dry completely before replacing.
Lint Trap Housing — Monthly
Lint falls past the screen into the housing slot over time:
- Use a vacuum with a narrow crevice attachment inside the lint trap slot — lint accumulates here and is inaccessible to the screen
- A flexible lint brush (available at Home Hardware or Canadian Tire, about $10) can reach further into the slot
Dryer Drum — Monthly
- Wipe inside the drum with a damp microfibre cloth — this removes residue from dryer sheets and fabric softener buildup, which can stain light-coloured clothing
- For black streaks or stains inside the drum: wipe with isopropyl alcohol on a cloth, then wipe with a damp cloth to remove the alcohol before running the dryer
Exhaust Duct — Annually (Critical)
This is the most important maintenance item and the most commonly neglected. The exhaust duct carries hot moist air and lint from the dryer to outside the house. Over time lint builds up inside the duct and creates a fire hazard.
- Disconnect the duct from the back of the dryer (pull the dryer out from the wall)
- Vacuum inside the duct from both ends with a crevice attachment
- For longer ducts: use a dryer duct cleaning brush kit (available at Canadian Tire, $25–$40) — a long flexible rod with a brush head that reaches through the full duct length
- Check the exterior vent: make sure the flap opens freely and is not blocked by lint, nesting birds, or debris
- Signs you need immediate duct cleaning: clothes take more than one cycle to dry, dryer feels hot to the touch, burning or musty smell during drying
Appliance cleaning is included in every Maidless deep clean. Book at maidless.ca.