Do’s and Dont’s of Dryers
Proper maintenance and usage of your dryer are critical for both energy efficiency and preventing
home fires. “Failure to clean” is the leading cause of the nearly 15,000 dryer fires reported
annually in the U.S. and Canada.
The Do’s: Essential Maintenance & Safety
Clean the Lint Filter Daily: Empty the lint screen before or after every single load. For a deeper clean, wash the screen with warm, soapy water every few months to remove waxy buildup from dryer sheets.
Inspect the Outside Flap: Regularly check that your outdoor vent flap opens when the dryeris running. If it doesn’t, air is being restricted, which can lead to moisture buildup or fire hazards.
The Don’ts: Common Mistakes
Don’t Overload: Filling the drum too full restricts airflow, forcing the motor to overwork and significantly increasing the risk of overheating.
Don’t Run Unattended: Never leave the dryer running when you are sleeping or away from home. Being present allows you to react quickly if you smell smoke or hear unusual noises.
Don’t Use Without a Filter: Never operate the machine if the lint filter is missing, damaged, or loose.
Don’t Store Flammables Nearby: Keep the area around your dryer clear of boxes, cleaning supplies, and loose clothing that could ignite if the machine gets too hot.
Items to Keep OUT
Certain materials can melt, ignite, or be permanently ruined by heat:
Rubber and Plastic: Items like rubber-backed bath mats, sneakers, or foam-filled pillows can melt or even spark a fire.
Flammable Substances: Never dry items that have been in contact with gasoline, cooking oils, or paint thinners. Even after washing, some residue may remain and ignite under heat. Hang-dry these items instead.
Delicates & Elastics: Heat degrades spandex and elastic in bras and gym clothes, causing them to lose their shape. Silk, wool, and lace should also be air-dried to prevent shrinking and fraying.
Embellished Items: Clothing with beads, sequins, or glue can melt or damage the dryer drum.
Sandy Items: Avoid putting sandy towels directly in the dryer, as they can get trapped in the machine’s internal components and cause mechanical failure.
