Get matched with top dryer vent cleaners in Frederick, CO

If you're dealing with an odor in your dryer that transfers onto your clothes and linens, here's what you can do: start by cleaning the lint trap and drum with warm soapy water. Then wipe down the interior using a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar to eliminate any lingering odors.

To get rid of odors you can try this method: take a cloth soaked in vinegar and put it inside the dryer. Run the dryer on a heat setting for 15 minutes. Afterward, make sure to dry the drum by running it with some towels. This technique helps eliminate any smells and leaves your dryer smelling nice and fresh.

If the odors remain, you may need to sanitize your dryer or call in a professional house cleaner to handle the job.

As a general rule, you should have your dryer vent professionally cleaned at least once a year to remove lint and debris buildup, which can cause fires and increase energy costs. However, the frequency may need to be adjusted based on usage. If you have a large household, use the dryer frequently, have pets, or have an older vent system, it is better to clean the vent more often, such as every six months or even quarterly. You should also schedule a cleaning immediately if you notice signs of a blockage, such as clothes taking longer to dry, the dryer feeling hot to the touch, or an odd odor. Routine vacuuming is not a substitute for a thorough, professional cleaning.

Conducting quick dryer maintenance can extend its lifespan. Help your dryer stay in mint condition by cleaning the lint trap before and after every cycle. This keeps leftover lint from accumulating in your dryer vent, which is one of the leading causes of household fires, according to the U.S. Fire Administration.

You can also wipe down the lint screen with dish soap every few months to keep it extra clean. A basic wipedown of the drum every few months and a deep clean of the exhaust vent once a year are beneficial, too. 

A dryer vent inspection is simply the process of checking the vent for the possibility of damage or clogs. You can do it yourself or hire a pro. Pull the dryer away from the wall and inspect the portion of the vent that’s behind the appliance for lint buildup or kinks. Check the connection of the vent to the wall for loose parts or lint that’s escaping the vent. Check the exterior exhaust vent for signs of damage or lint blockage. A pro can check the length of the vent inside the wall for you.