6 Expert Tips to Clean Your Clothes Dryer in 2025

Why Regular Dryer Cleaning is Essential

Maintaining a clean dryer is critical for several reasons, all of which contribute to a safer and more efficient home appliance. Here’s why you should make dryer cleaning a regular part of your home maintenance routine.

• Fire hazard prevention: Lint, dust, and debris can accumulate in the dryer vent over time, creating a highly flammable environment. As the dryer heats up, this buildup can ignite, posing a significant fire risk. Regular cleaning removes this flammable debris, substantially reducing the risk of a dryer fire.
• Improved clothes drying efficiency: Lint buildup inside the dryer drum and the exhaust vent can obstruct airflow, causing your dryer to work harder and longer to dry clothes. This not only increases energy consumption but also raises utility bills. By keeping your dryer clean, you ensure optimal airflow, allowing clothes to dry faster and more efficiently.
• Extended appliance lifespan: Lint and debris accumulation can put additional strain on the motor and other components, leading to increased wear and tear. Regular cleaning helps alleviate this strain, enabling your dryer to run smoothly and last longer.

3 Tips on How to Clean the Inside of Your Dryer

Maintaining a clean dryer is essential for its proper functioning and longevity. Here are three expert tips to effectively clean the inside of your dryer:

Tip 1: Remove Lint Buildup in the Lint Screen Housing

Begin by unplugging your dryer and removing the lint screen. Use a vacuum cleaner or a lint brush to carefully remove any accumulated lint from the lint screen housing.

Tip 2: Wash the Lint Screen with Water

Removing lint from the lint screen before drying each load is essential to keeping your dryer working smoothly and efficiently.

In addition to clearing lint from the screen before each dryer use, we recommend that you wash the lint screen with water monthly to remove dryer sheet residue and fabric softener deposits that build up on the lint screen over time.

Wash the lint screen with water and a soft-bristle brush as shown in this video:

Tip 3: Clean the Drum

Over time, residues from fabric softeners and dryer sheets can build up on the drum's surface. Create a solution of warm water and mild dish soap. Dampen a soft cloth with the solution and gently scrub the drum, focusing on any stubborn stains. Rinse the drum thoroughly with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue.

By following these expert tips, you can maintain a clean and efficient dryer, ensuring it serves you well for years to come. Remember, regular maintenance is key to keeping your dryer running smoothly and safely.

3 Tips on How to Clean the Outside of Your Dryer

Keeping the exterior of your dryer clean not only enhances its appearance but also ensures its longevity. Here are three expert tips to help you clean the outside of your dryer effectively:

Tip 1: Clean the Exterior Surfaces

Start by unplugging your dryer to ensure safety. Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe down the exterior surfaces, including the top, sides, and front. For stubborn dirt or grime, mix a mild detergent with warm water and gently scrub the affected areas. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrub brushes, as they may damage the finish of your dryer.

Tip 2: How to Remove Stains and Marks

To remove stains or marks from your dryer's exterior, make a paste using baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the affected areas and let it sit for a few minutes. Gently scrub the stains using a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly.

Tip 3: Maintain the Control Panel

The control panel can accumulate dust and residue over time. To clean it, use a microfiber cloth lightly dampened with water or a mild cleaning solution. Avoid excessive moisture, as it can damage the electronics. Wipe the control panel gently, paying attention to the buttons and display screen.

By following these expert tips, you can keep the outside of your dryer looking clean and well-maintained. Always refer to your dryer's user manual for specific cleaning instructions and safety guidelines.

Tips for Maintaining Dryer Vents

Proper maintenance of your dryer vents is essential for efficient and safe operation. Here are additional expert tips to help you keep your dryer vents in top shape:

Clear Lint from the Flexible Vent Hose

Over time, lint and other debris can accumulate in the exhaust vent hose behind the dryer, causing blockages that restrict airflow. This can lead to longer drying times and increased energy consumption. Periodically inspect your vent hose for any signs of blockage. Pull any accumulated lint and debris out of the flexible vent hose. Clean the vent hose using a vacuum cleaner.

Clean the Exhaust Vent Duct Going to the Outside of Your Home

Look for lint buildup, bird nests, or any other obstructions. If you notice any blockages, clear them immediately to ensure proper ventilation.

Use a vent cleaning brush -- a specialized tool designed to reach deep into the dryer vent -- to remove stubborn lint. It features long, flexible bristles that can navigate the twists and turns of the vent system. Regularly using a vent cleaning brush can help prevent lint buildup and keep your dryer running efficiently. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and be gentle when using the brush to avoid damaging the vent. If you prefer to have Sears Home Services clean the vent, schedule dryer vent cleaning service and we’ll send a technician to your home to clean out the vent for you.

By following these expert tips, you can maintain your dryer vents effectively and enjoy optimal drying performance while reducing the risk of fire hazards. If you need professional assistance or have any concerns about your dryer's performance, don't hesitate to contact our team of experienced technicians at Sears Home Services. We provide reliable dryer vent cleaning services to help you keep your appliance running smoothly and safely.

Sears Home Services: Your Trusted Partner for Dryer Cleaning and Maintenance

At Sears Home Services, we understand the importance of keeping your dryer clean and well-maintained. As a trusted partner for all your home appliance needs, we offer professional dryer cleaning services, routine maintenance packages, and solutions for common dryer problems.

Professional Dryer Cleaning & Maintenance Services

Our professional dryer cleaning and maintenance services are designed to ensure that your dryer operates efficiently and safely. Over time, lint and debris can accumulate in your dryer vents, reducing airflow and increasing the risk of fire. Our expert technicians use specialized tools and techniques to thoroughly clean your dryer and internal exhaust system, removing all lint and debris to improve airflow and prevent potential hazards. The technician checks and adjusts all dryer controls, heating and drive systems to keep your dryer in top shape.

Schedule professional dryer maintenance and cleaning yearly to keep your dryer running smoothly and efficiently.

Expert Solutions for Common Dryer Problems

When it comes to common dryer problems, our team of experts is here to help. From a dryer that won't start to one that is not heating properly, we have the knowledge and experience to diagnose and solve a wide range of issues. Whether it's a faulty thermostat, a clogged vent, or a malfunctioning heating element, we can quickly identify the problem and provide an effective solution.

Schedule dryer repair service any time you notice a problem with your clothes dryer.

Home Warranty Packages

Sears Home Services can cover your clothes dryer and your other home appliances with one convenient plan. Our Sears Protect plan protects up to 12 appliances in your home. See more information about the Sears Protect plan in this brief video:

Visit our Sears Protect page to get more information and sign up for your plan today.

Trust Sears Home Services for all your dryer cleaning and maintenance needs. With our professional services, home warranty packages, and expert solutions, we are committed to keeping your dryer and all your appliances running smoothly and efficiently for years to come.