How do I clean out the lint from my dryer that may be trapped inside?

Patricia Wade
by Patricia Wade

I know how to take out my lint trap, but I'm talking about the excess that doesn't make it to the lint trap, down inside the machine.

  6 answers
  • Take the front panel off and vacuum it out.


    https://www.thespruce.com/clean-your-dryer-vent-1824761


    https://www.cnet.com/how-to/how-to-clean-your-dryer-duct-in-5-steps/


    I do this every 6 months. Around the first of the year and around July 4th weekend.

  • Ellis Ellis on Dec 08, 2018

    I use the crevice tool down into the area below the lint trap, but be careful not to get it lost down there. If possible, you can also take off the vent pipe at the back, and clean that out.


    In this area, we are starting to see appliance repairmen and chimney cleaners selling this service.

  • Jewellmartin Jewellmartin on Dec 08, 2018

    I use a ruler with a couple of used dryer sheets attached with a rubber band. I can reach under the dryer lint filter almost a foot, and I only do that once a year or so, when I think of it. Best wishes, ☺️

  • Connie Connie on Dec 08, 2018

    After cleaning the lint trap, I also remove the vent pipe at back of dryer & remove lint, then I vacuum with my shop vac. I stretch the tube, open the exterior vent lid, & use my leaf blower to blow from the inside to the outside. I do this in Spring & FalI.

  • J J on Dec 08, 2018

    I had both washer and dryer issues this year. Since I couldn’t afford to replace them I googled the type of appliances. I ended up fixing my washer for $7 and the dryer was $40. I found a YouTube tutorial guy named theappliancerepairman. I did the repairs myself with zero experience and it was EXACTLY like his tutorials. I did NOT take the dryer drum out though because the washer drum was so trying. He is my new hero plus I now know just how much lint gets built up and will now clean that dryer lint twice a year. The buildup and blockage completely filled the garbage can. It was unbelievable. I hope this helps. :)

    • Congratulations! This is a perfect example of how, with a bit of patience, one can use Google and the internet to their advantage. That's what it is for. You can learn things, fix things that service tech's charge a fortune for and educate yourself almost for free. Now you know why it should be cleaned out. Clothes dryers are one of the top reasons a house fire can start. People believe if they can't see it, it doesn't exist. Wrong. You now know how crucial proper maintenance can prolong the life of your appliance. Bet you want to be with the firemen when they give their educational tips. Be proud.

  • J J on Dec 12, 2018

    Thanks Naomie. :)