Is the dryer your favorite helper at home? It dries clothes almost effortlessly, but it deserves a little care. Cleaning the dryer is important for maintaining its performance, reducing energy consumption, and extending its lifespan. If you don't know how to clean the dryer, you're in the right place. You'll also learn how to deal with laundry that doesn't smell fresh from the dryer.
Why clean the dryer
It's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the regular maintenance of any appliance as soon as possible.
However, caring for the dryer is not just about wiping the glass door with a damp cloth; attention is especially required for the parts hidden inside the appliance. The front and bottom filters capture the largest amount of textile fibers and other dirt. If they are not cleaned regularly, they create a suitable environment for moisture, which promotes mold growth.
htmlHow often to clean the dryer
It's ideal to clean the lint filter after each use of the dryer . For more comprehensive maintenance, including cleaning the condenser and internal parts, we recommend doing it at least once every three months . Clean filters ensure better air circulation and more efficient drying.
Cleaning the dryer in 4 steps
1. Cleaning the lint filter
The upper lint filter should be cleaned after each drying , as it collects textile fibers and dust. You can easily find the filter, as it is located right behind the door of the dryer. You can remove coarse dirt from the filter by hand, while finer particles can be vacuumed.
The second filter can be found at the bottom of the appliance, usually hidden behind a plastic cover. Most modern dryers will automatically alert you to the need to clean the bottom filter with a warning , usually with a lit icon on the dryer display. This way, you can easily tell that it's time to pull out the filter and give it a good clean.
The bottom filter usually has a foam filling to catch dirt that has escaped the upper lint filter. You won't have to think long about how to clean the dryer filter. Just vacuum the filter and rinse it under warm water. Only put it back in the dryer after it has thoroughly dried.


2. Cleaning the condenser
If the dryer is not directly connected to the drain, you need to empty the water from the condensation container. It's also a good idea to pay attention to cleaning the condenser if your dryer model allows it. You can find out how to access the condenser in the user manual.
Be careful when cleaning the condenser so you don't injure yourself on its metal surface. Therefore, do not touch the surface of the condenser with bare hands, but wear protective gloves . The metal surface of the condenser is also at risk of damage. Therefore, vacuum it carefully and only with a vacuum cleaner that has a brush attachment.
Condenser dryers allow you to remove the condenser and wash it with a shower.
3. Cleaning the drum
Just wipe the drum with a damp cloth after each drying, as well as the dryer door and the seal. A clean drum is the foundation for fresh and fragrant laundry after every drying.
TIP Faster drying and natural scent in the dryer
If you desire even more fragrant laundry, try this simple trick.Drop a few drops of wool dryer balls with laundry fragrance into the dryer and place the balls with the laundry before starting the drying process. Your laundry will dry faster thanks to the balls, and it will also smell wonderful and feel soft to the touch. EcoHaus dryer fragrances are an eco-friendly alternative to regular fabric softeners.
TIP Faster drying and natural fragrance for the dryer
If you desire even more fragrant laundry, try this simple trick. Drop a few drops of wool dryer balls with laundry fragrance into the dryer and place the balls with the laundry before starting the drying process. Your laundry will dry faster thanks to the balls, and it will also smell wonderful and feel soft to the touch.Dryer scents from EcoHaus are an eco-friendly alternative to regular fabric softeners.
html4.Cleaning Ventilation Vents
For a vented dryer, it is important to ensure that the ventilation vents can expel the hot and humid air produced by the dryer. If the dryer is warmer than usual, it’s time to clean the ventilation vents. Regular cleaning is recommended once every six months . Ensuring the airflow of the ventilation vents contributes to faster and safer drying.
First, disconnect the dryer from the power supply. Usually, you need to move the dryer away from the wall, as the ventilation vents are located either on the back of the dryer or on the sides. Sometimes it is necessary to unscrew the cover.
Most dust and lint accumulate in the hose, especially at the dryer outlet . Use a vacuum cleaner with the appropriate attachment and clean all accessible parts of the ventilation vents.After cleaning, carefully check that all parts are properly connected and run a short drying cycle without laundry to verify that air is flowing correctly.
Tips for preventing dryer problems
The dryer is your good helper if you take care of it properly. Keep the ventilation system clean and always check for overload before drying. This will not only prevent unnecessary wear but also reduce energy consumption and ensure faster drying.
But there are other problems that may be bothering you. If your laundry doesn't smell fresh from the dryer or the dryer consumes too much energy, a few small changes and improvements can help. Want to save on electricity? Use wool dryer balls.Are you looking for dryer sheets ? In the article 3 most common mistakes when drying laundry in a dryer , we looked at the benefits of dryer sheets.
One more warning. A dryer is a household appliance that you definitely shouldn't leave completely unattended – for example, leaving the house while it's running. This happens rarely, but dryers can cause fires, usually due to a technical malfunction. Timely firefighter intervention in such a case can save the entire apartment from destruction.
htmlHow to care for a combined washer-dryer
Just like with a standalone dryer, you will need to regularly clean the lint filter after each use. Combined washer-dryers are mostly of the condensation type, which means that the condenser and water container need to be cleaned regularly.
Combined washer-dryers may require more frequent maintenance since both functions (washing and drying) occur in one device. When it comes to cleaning the washing machine and removing limescale, check out the article Take care of your washing machine and ensure perfect washing .