When the weather cools down, you probably start reaching for cozier clothes and pulling out extra blankets, and these heavier items can produce plenty of lint, which can build up in your dryer vent over time. That's why fall is a good time to tackle the often-overlooked household maintenance task of cleaning your dryer vent.
While most of us know to clean the lint trap after every load, the dryer vent—the duct that carries hot, moist air and lint from the machine to the outdoors—needs attention on occasion too.
Why cleaning the dryer vent matters
"The main concern with buildup in the vent is that it restricts airflow, making the dryer run hotter and less efficiently," says Noah Pinsonnault, a reviews analyst in the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab. "Because lint is combustible, excessive buildup can also pose a fire risk." A clear vent also helps your dryer operate more efficiently, potentially reducing energy use and unnecessary wear on the appliance.
How often you should clean your dryer vent
It’s important to clean your dryer vent at least once a year, says Pinsonnault. If you do laundry frequently or have a long, complicated vent system, you may need to clean it more often.
You should also watch for signs of a blockage. If clothes are taking longer than usual to dry, your dryer feels unusually hot, or airflow from the outdoor exhaust vent seems weak, lint buildup could be to blame. Check the exterior vent opening for leaves, debris, or other obstructions too.
And even if your dryer seems to be working normally, don't skip routine maintenance. Lint can accumulate gradually, and a dryer that still runs doesn't necessarily have a completely clear vent. Making this an annual task can help you catch buildup before it becomes a bigger problem.
How to clean your dryer vent
If your dryer has a short, easily accessible vent, you may be able to clean it yourself. Start by unplugging the dryer, then disconnect the duct and use a vacuum or dryer vent brush to remove accumulated lint. Check the duct for visible buildup and make sure the connection is secure when you reattach it. Consult your dryer's manual for any model-specific instructions.
For long or complicated duct runs, significant blockages, or any setup that requires disconnecting a gas line, it's best to call a professional, says Pinsonnault. A professional can clean sections of the vent that are difficult to reach and check for obstructions that may not be visible.
Once the vent is clean, keep up with the small task you already know to do. Remove lint from the lint trap after every load, and occasionally check the outdoor vent opening to make sure leaves or other debris aren't blocking it. These simple habits, along with an annual vent cleaning, can help keep your dryer running safely and efficiently.
Brigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women's Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more.
