A buildup of lint in your dryer's trap can lead to the reduced air circulation and efficiency during a cycle. Not only can lint build up in your dryer's system and become a fire hazard, but it will also increase your energy bill because your dryer must work harder to dry your clothes. While quickly removing the lint will help slightly, deep cleaning your lint trap will help your dryer work more efficiently.

Test Your Trap

Remove your dryer lint trap carefully, so you can test to see if it needs to be cleaned. Run warm water through the screen. If the water pools slightly, it is because dryer sheets and clothes cause the lint trap to become clogged with an invisible layer. Removing this layer frequently will extend the life of your dryer's heating elements.

Washing

Wash off your lint trap with warm soapy water. Then use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub the screen portion of your lint trap to remove the layer of film. Wipe off the outer edges of your lint trap with a soapy towel and rinse it thoroughly. Before returning the lint trap to the dryer, retest it by running warm water through the screen again. Rescrub if water still pools on the screen. Allow the lint trap to dry completely.

Interior Cleaning and Replacement

While the lint trap is drying, wipe down the interior of your dryer's basin and lint trap slot. An old dryer sheet works well for wiping both of these areas. For a deeper clean, use a vacuum with attachable parts to clean out the inside of the lint trap slot. This will help reduce fire hazards and your electricity bill in the long run. Place the dry lint trap back into your dryer. Use a dry cloth to wipe down any parts that may still be wet if you feel it is necessary. When drying a small load of clothes in the future, reduce the amount of lint from dryer sheets by only using half a sheet.

Source:

The Laundry Alternative Inc.

Applianceaid.com