Every clothes dryer comes equipped with a lint filter; a small mesh filter that catches lint and fluff from your drying load. The position of the lint filter varies with the model you have, but it usually is in a prominent spot for easy access. If you aren't sure where it is, consult your appliance manual or inspect your dryer and locate it, because keeping it clean is most important.

As your load dries, the lint that collects in the filter hampers the flow of air from the heated dryer.

This makes your dryer work harder than necessary and can also pose a fire risk if the lint builds up in the filter. Read Dryer Lint Filter Safety Concern to learn how to reduce this fire hazard and protect yourself and your family.

How can cleaning the lint filter save you money? When your dryer works harder than necessary, you use more energy and this will increase your electricity costs. It will also take longer to dry a load when the filter is clogged with lint.

How Often Should You Clean the Lint Filter?

After each load before you place your next washload in the dryer. It's easy to get in the habit of cleaning the filter. Just keep a waste basket handy in the laundry area and decide whether you'll clean the filter after, or before each load goes into the dryer. Cleaning is easy - just wipe your fingers across the lint and you can roll it off. Moistening your fingers can also help to remove the lint. I often take the used fabric-softener sheet from the dryer and use it to scoop up the lint and discard it.

It's that simple.

A small dryer maintenance step that will save energy, help your dryer work more efficiently and can also prevent a fire hazard.

Read More About Laundry Appliances

What is HE Detergent?
Before You Buy a Dryer
Compact Laundry Units
Laundry & Fabric Care
Laundry Appliances Resources, Tips and Reviews
Go to Home Page