How Long Does a Dryer Take?

If your dryer takes longer, something’s not working as it should. Let’s break down what affects drying time and how to keep your clothes dryer running efficiently.

Factors That Affect Drying Time

Your dryer isn’t just a hot air box—it’s a machine that depends on proper airflow and heat to do its job.

A few key factors determine how quickly your clothes dry.

Load Size and Fabric Type

A reasonably-sized and balanced load dries faster than an oversized load. Follow load size guidelines in the owner’s manual for your dryer to avoid overloading the drum.

Thick materials like bath towels, jeans, comforters or blankets naturally take longer to dry.

Washer Spin Cycle Efficiency

Clothes that come out of the washer damp instead of nearly dry will add extra time in the dryer. A high-speed spin cycle removes more water before drying starts.

Use the highest spin speed that is practical for each load of laundry.

Ventilation and Lint Buildup

A clogged dryer vent blocks airflow, trapping moisture inside the drum. Even a partially blocked vent can double drying time.

Clean the lint screen before starting every load of laundry. Clean the exhaust vent duct system going to the outside of your home yearly – more often if you do lots of laundry.

Dryer Settings

Using the right heat level and dryness setting matters.

Auto-dry sensors prevent overdrying, while lower heat settings require more time to dry clothes.

Follow the directions in the owner’s manual for your dryer to select the best drying cycle for your laundry loads.

How to Speed Up Drying Time

Nobody likes waiting longer than necessary for laundry to finish. If your dryer seems sluggish, try these expert tips.

Clean the Lint Screen Before Starting Every Load

A full lint filter blocks airflow, making clothes take longer to dry.

Clear lint off the lint screen as you load each load of clothes. A clean lint screen will help air flow through the dryer efficiently and will help minimize dry time.

Wash the Lint Screen Monthly

To clear dryer softener sheet residue off the lint screen, wash it monthly under running tap water and use a soft-bristled brush to help clean the screen.

Here’s a video that shows how to wash the lint screen:

Check and Clean the Dryer Vent Regularly

A vent packed with lint slows down drying time and increases the risk of a fire.

Disconnect the flexible vent hose behind the dryer and clear out lint buildup at least once a year.

Follow these steps to clear the dryer’s exhaust system at least once a year.

1. Unplug the dryer and clean the flexible vent hose behind the dryer. A long-handled appliance brush and a vacuum cleaner are the best tools for the task.
2. Clear lint and debris from the vent duct going to the outside of your home. If you can’t reach the vent yourself, schedule a dryer vent cleaning with Sears Home Services.
3. Make sure the vent hood damper outside your house moves freely.

When you’re done, turn on the dryer, head outside and make sure air flows from the vent hood outside your home. If not, look for a clog in the venting path.

Use Wool Dryer Balls

Wool dryer balls improve air circulation, helping clothes dry faster and reducing static cling.

You can also use tennis balls or rubber dryer balls to help improve drying.

Don’t Overload the Drum

Too much clothes crammed together prevent heat and air from circulating properly. Aim for a loosely filled drum.

Ensure Proper Vent Hose Installation

The vent hose should be short and straight. Long or kinked hoses trap moisture, making the dryer work harder.

When to Call for Repairs

If your dryer takes more than 60 minutes to dry a normal load, even after cleaning the vent and lint screen, something’s wrong. A weak heating element, faulty thermostat, or bad moisture sensor could be the culprit. Unusual noises, overheating, or clothes coming out damp every time signal it’s time repair service to have a technician take a look.

A properly maintained dryer should dry clothes quickly and efficiently. If yours is lagging, don’t ignore the signs. A few simple dryer maintenance steps can keep your laundry routine running smoothly—and prevent the frustration of a never-ending drying cycle.