Key takeaways
- Empty it after every load
- Wash it a few times a year
- Vacuum the slot behind it
- Skip dryer sheet buildup
After every load
Pull the screen out, roll the lint off with your fingers and put it back. It takes seconds. Doing it every time keeps air moving and reduces lint that escapes into the duct.
Never run the dryer without the screen in place.
Wash it
Fabric softener and dryer sheets can leave a thin film on the mesh that blocks air even when it looks clean. Wash the screen with warm water and a soft brush and let it dry fully.
A simple test: run water over the screen. If it pools instead of passing through, it needs a wash.
Reach the slot
Lint falls into the slot where the screen sits. Use a long, narrow vacuum attachment or a brush to clear it. Do not push lint further in.
A professional cleaning also clears the housing and the first stretch of duct.
Related services
Quick answers
Do dryer sheets hurt the lint screen?
They can leave a film on the mesh, which is why washing the screen from time to time helps.
Can I vacuum the lint slot?
Yes, with a narrow attachment, as long as the dryer is unplugged.
Ready to talk it through? Get a free quote or call 800-313-8481.