Dryer Lint & Vent Fire Safety

Clothes dryers cause thousands of home fires each year, and the leading cause is failure to clean lint. A quick routine prevents it.

Every load

• Clean the lint screen before each load (and after)
• Never run the dryer when you are asleep or out

Every few months

1. Unplug the dryer (gas dryers: shut the gas valve too).
2. Pull the dryer out and disconnect the vent hose.
3. Vacuum the hose and the wall opening with a lint brush or vacuum attachment.
4. Check the outside vent hood — make sure the flap opens freely and isn't blocked by lint, snow, or pests.
5. Reconnect with rigid or semi-rigid metal ducting (never plastic or foil).

Warning signs you need deeper cleaning

• Drying takes much longer than it used to
• Clothes are hotter than normal at the end
• The laundry room is humid
• A burning smell

When to call a pro

If drying time has doubled, schedule a professional vent cleaning — the clog may be deep in the wall run.