By: Mrs. Phipps
It may seem like a trivial or mundane task, but cleaning lint from dryer screens is important not only for the continuing performance and efficiency of your dryer, but also for the safety of your home.
Cleaning a Dryer Lint Screen
Cleaning the dryer lint filter after every use (load) should be a part of your normal routine. Too much lint buildup can cause your dryer to become less efficient, resulting in longer drying cycles and higher electric bills. It can also cause the dryer to overheat, resulting in the risk of fire.
However, clearing lint from the filter is only part of the process. You should also wash it with hot, soapy water every six months. While it may look clean otherwise, the filter screen can develop a clear film over the mesh from the use of dryer sheets. If not cleaned, this too can result in longer drying times or even burn out the heating unit. The best way to keep a dryer lint trap cleaner is to learn how to clean dryer lint filters properly.
How to Clean Dryer Lint Filter
To clean the lint filter, pull it from the dryer. This is located in the front of the dryer near the settings on most dryer types but may be located elsewhere on other models. Once you’ve cleared the filter of lint (using your hands), you can test to see whether or not the screen itself is in need of cleaning, especially if you haven’t done it lately. Simply run some water over the filter (in your sink) and if the water does not run freely through the mesh, you will need to wash it thoroughly to get the dryer lint trap cleaner.
Wet both sides of the lint screen with hot, soapy water and then gently scrub each side with an old, soft toothbrush. Pour additional water over the screen to ensure that it runs through and then rinse it out. Dry it off with a clean towel and replace the filter in the dryer.
Additional Clothes Dryer Lint Screen Cleaning Instruction
While you are cleaning the dryer lint screen, you may also want to inspect it for holes which may be in need or replacement. You may also want to use a vacuum to suck out any excess lint from the filter opening while you have the screen out as well.
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