Emptying your dryer's lint trap after every load is important — but it’s not enough.
Hidden lint buildup inside your dryer and vent system creates a major fire hazard, shortens your appliance’s life, and wastes energy. To keep your home safe and your laundry routine efficient, a more thorough approach to dryer maintenance is key.
Here’s how to clean your dryer the right way — from the lint trap to the vent hose — and when it’s smarter (and safer) to call in Puls for professional dryer vent cleaning.
Why Dryer Maintenance Matters
According to FEMA, there are 2,900 dryer fires every year in the U.S., causing over $35 million in property damage — and the leading cause is lint buildup.
That’s right: something as simple as neglected lint can put your entire home at risk. The vent system, often hidden from sight, can accumulate dangerous amounts of lint over time. This restricts airflow, causes overheating, and can ignite if exposed to high heat.
Proper dryer maintenance can:
- 🔥 Prevent fires
- ⚡ Lower energy usage
- 🌀 Speed up drying times
- 🛠️ Extend your dryer's lifespan
- 🚗 Reduce strain on your HVAC system by minimizing excess heat and humidity
Maintaining your dryer isn’t just about fire safety—it also keeps your utility bills in check and ensures your clothes are dried evenly and thoroughly.
How to Clean the Lint Trap (Properly)
Most people quickly peel lint from the screen and call it a day. But there’s often residue left behind that restricts airflow.
DIY Steps:
- Remove the lint screen and clean off lint.
- Wash the screen monthly with warm, soapy water to remove film from dryer sheets.
- Use a soft brush to scrub lightly if needed.
- Let the screen dry completely before placing it back.
Supplies Needed:
- Dish soap
- Soft brush or toothbrush
- Towels
Why It Matters:
That invisible waxy buildup blocks airflow — making your dryer work harder and increasing fire risk, even if the screen looks clean. Regular cleaning of the lint screen helps reduce drying time and wear on clothes by improving air circulation.
How to Clean the Dryer Drum
The inside of the drum can collect lint, residue, or even stray bits of tissue and fabric softener that didn’t make it out with the laundry. This is especially true if you use dryer sheets frequently.
DIY Steps:
- Unplug the dryer for safety.
- Wipe the drum with a soft cloth and a mix of mild detergent and water.
- Rinse with a damp cloth and then dry thoroughly.
For Sticky Residue:
Use a solution of white vinegar and water to gently scrub out gunk left by dryer sheets or spills.
Supplies Needed:
- Mild detergent
- Microfiber cloths
- White vinegar (optional)
Bonus Tip:
Use a flashlight to check for lost socks, gum wrappers, or other small items that might be hiding in the drum or around the seal.
How to Clean the Dryer Vent (Basic DIY)
The vent hose behind your dryer is a lint magnet — and a fire risk if ignored. When lint collects here, your dryer overheats, works less efficiently, and takes longer to dry clothes.
DIY Steps:
- Unplug the dryer and pull it away from the wall.
- Disconnect the vent hose with a screwdriver.
- Use a dryer vent brush or vacuum to remove lint inside the hose.
- Clean around the duct outlet on the exterior of your home as well.
- Reconnect the hose and push the dryer back into place.
Supplies Needed:
- Dryer vent brush kit
- Vacuum with hose attachment
- Screwdriver
- Gloves (recommended)
Extra Insight:
If your dryer is located on an interior wall or the vent run is more than 8 feet long, you may not be able to reach the full length of the vent with basic tools.
Don’t Forget the Exterior Vent Hood
While you’re at it, check your outside vent hood. If it’s stuck closed or full of debris, that can trap moist air and lint inside your vent line.
Clear leaves, lint, and nests, and make sure the flap opens freely when the dryer is on.
Why It Matters:
A blocked or damaged exterior vent prevents proper airflow and causes humidity buildup indoors. This can also damage insulation and increase indoor allergens.
Signs You Need Professional Dryer Vent Cleaning
DIY cleaning is great for quick upkeep — but it doesn’t reach the deep parts of the vent line, especially if your home has long, angled ductwork or multi-story ventilation.
Book Puls if You Notice:
- Clothes taking more than one cycle to dry
- A burning smell during or after a cycle
- The outside vent hood not opening properly
- It’s been over a year since your last professional cleaning
- The laundry room feels hotter than usual during operation
Why Book Puls?
Puls pros use specialized tools to remove built-up lint from deep inside the vent system — including curved or hidden ductwork that DIY tools can’t reach.
You get:
- ✅ Full-system cleaning from dryer to exterior vent
- ⏱ Faster drying times
- 📈 Improved energy efficiency
- ✅ Peace of mind knowing your home is safer
- ✅ Convenient online booking with flexible appointments
Dryer vent cleaning typically takes less than an hour — and it could prevent thousands in fire damage or appliance replacement costs. Our pros also inspect vent connections and check for damage or airflow issues while they’re at it.
✅ Book Dryer Vent Cleaning with Puls Today!
Don’t wait for a burning smell or sky-high energy bills. Keep your home safer and your dryer running like new with professional vent cleaning.
Book now and enjoy:
- Safer operation
- Shorter dry times
- Lower utility bills
- A longer-lasting dryer
