How Often Should Dryer Lint Be Cleaned?

Dryer lint buildup isn't just a performance issue — it's one of the leading causes of house fires when left unchecked, so a simple cleaning routine matters more than people realize.

The lint trap: every single load. Clean the lint screen before or after every load. It only takes a few seconds and is the single most effective thing you can do for dryer performance and safety.

The vent duct: at least once a year. Lint builds up inside the exhaust duct itself over time, even with a clean lint trap, restricting airflow and making the dryer work harder and run hotter. If you do more laundry than average, or have a longer vent run, check it more often.

Warning signs it's overdue: clothes taking noticeably longer to dry, the dryer or laundry room feeling hotter than usual during a cycle, or a burning smell.

A clogged vent is also one of the most common reasons a dryer's heating element or thermal fuse fails prematurely, so keeping it clear protects the appliance as well as your home.