The benefits of deep cleaning your clothes dryer annually range from better aesthetics to peak performance. Most importantly, it reduces the risk of fire, which keeps you and your family safe. The best way to ensure you never skip a routine cleaning is by making it a part of your fall home maintenance schedule. Use this checklist to get started.

Clean the Lint Trap

Start by unplugging your dryer. If it’s gas, turn the valve off. Your lint trap needs to be clean for peak performance and good airflow. Remove the lint screen, which you should be cleaning after each use, and set it aside. Use your vacuum with the crevice tool attachment to clean the interior and exterior of the trap. When finished, replace the screen.

Wipe the Dryer Drum

Fabric softeners and dryer sheets leave a residue behind on your dryer’s drum. Vacuum out any debris found inside. For an electric dryer, wipe the inside of the drum with a soft rag dipped in warm soapy water. If your dryer is gas, use a nonflammable household cleaner. In both cases, you can use a wet sponge for the final wipe-down. Either leave the door open or tumble a load of clean towels to dry the drum out.

Clean the Interior Vent

Pull the dryer out one foot from the wall. You may need help with this step. Unscrew the vent clamps that hold the vent onto the back of the dryer. Reach in with your hands to remove large pieces of debris from inside the vent. Use your vacuum hose and brush attachment to get the remaining lint. Be sure to get anything trapped in the crevices.

Clean the Exterior Vent

The exterior vent will be on the outside of your home. Clean it by opening the cover and removing any large pieces of debris. A dryer cleaning brush is ideal when it comes to reaching further inside. Follow up with the vacuum hose to catch any remaining lint.

Reattach the Vent

Back inside, you’ll need to reattach the vent to the back of the dryer and plug the dryer in. If it’s gas, you’ll need to turn the gas valve on. Move the dryer back to its original position and run an empty cycle. This removes any excess dust left behind.

Once you complete all of these tasks, you can rest assured that your dryer is operating efficiently. If you come across any problems during this annual cleaning, contact a professional for help. Reach out to Hotshot Appliance in Olathe, KS today for all of your dryer service needs.