How to Clean a Dryer Vent Safely (and Prevent a House Fire) - DIY Guide

A clogged dryer vent is one of the most common causes of household fires — but the good news is that cleaning it is simple and only takes a few minutes. If your dryer is taking longer to dry clothes, feels extra hot, or has a burning smell, it may be time to clear the lint from your vent.

Here’s a quick, homeowner-friendly guide to keeping your dryer running safely and efficiently.

1. Unplug the Dryer & Pull It Away From the Wall

Safety first.

• Unplug the dryer (or turn off the breaker for hardwired units)

• Gently pull it forward so you can access the vent

• If it’s a gas dryer, be careful not to strain the gas line — move it slowly

2. Disconnect the Vent Hose

Most hoses are held in place with a simple clamp.

• Loosen the clamp with a screwdriver

• Gently twist the hose free from the dryer and wall connection

• Expect some lint to fall out — that’s normal

3. Vacuum Out the Lint

Use a vacuum with a hose attachment to clean both ends. A shop vac works great for getting inside hoses and ducts.

• Vacuum inside the dryer outlet

• Take out your lint trap and vacuum as far as you can

• Vacuum as far as you can into the hose

• If you have a dryer vent cleaning brush, use it to loosen deeper lint

Tip: A flexible dryer vent brush is inexpensive and does the the job much more thoroughly.

4. Clean the Exterior Vent

Go outside and locate the vent cover. Some vent cover flaps can be removed. Others may require the vent cover to be removed.

• Remove any lint or debris around the opening

• Make sure the flap opens freely

• Vacuum or brush inside the pipe from the outside as well

If birds or pests have built nests inside the vent, remove them and install a vent cover.

5. Reconnect the Hose and Test the Dryer

Once everything is clean:

• Reattach the vent hose securely

• Push the dryer back into place without crushing the hose

• Run the dryer for 2–3 minutes

• Check for strong airflow outside — this confirms a good clean

How Often Should You Clean Your Dryer Vent?

Most homes should clean vents every 6–12 months.

Clean more often if:

• You have pets

• You do multiple loads daily

• The dryer is far from the exterior wall (longer vent = more lint buildup)

Signs Your Dryer Vent Is Clogged

• Clothes take longer to dry

• Dryer feels unusually hot

• Burning smell

• Excess lint around the exterior vent

• Laundry room feels humid when dryer runs

If you notice any of these, clean the vent immediately.

When to Call a Pro

• Dryer vents that run through walls or ceilings

• Metal ducting that’s hard to access

• No airflow even after cleaning

• Visible signs of moisture, mold, or damage

A professional cleaning is affordable and can prevent serious fire hazards.