How to Wash a Dryer Lint Trap

Most dryers have a lint trap that has to be manually cleaned in order for the filter to continue to work as intended. Lint traps vary in size, shape and depth. In cleaning the lint trap, its depth determines what type of brush you'll use to clean it. You may need a long brush that looks like a large pipe cleaner to effectively clean out a well-type lint trap. For other types of lint traps, though, a simple toothbrush can be used. Clean your lint trap at least once a week, and more often if there's a heavy lint buildup.

• 1

  Remove the lint trap only before or after the dryer is running. The lint trap can be very hot after the dryer's been in use, so it's best to let the dryer cool down before removing the trap. Peel as much of the lint off the surface of the lint trap as you can, then shake it out. The lint will stick to nearly everything, so place the lint in a plastic baggie and dispose of it in a trash can, not in a garbage disposal.

• 2

  Use a bit of plastic wrap to rub more flakes of lint from the lint trap. Lightly brush the lint trap's surface with the toothbrush to remove additional lint. If the lint trap has two sides, brush each side. A hair dryer can also be used, on the cool setting, to blow lint from the lint trap.

• 3

  Pour hot water slowly through the trap until you see the mesh clearly. Using a wet toothbrush, dip it into a bit of dish washing liquid and begin to gently scrub the mesh in a circular motion. Leave the suds on the lint trap until you've scrubbed both sides.

• 4

  Rinse the lint trap with hot water until the mesh looks clear and clean. Towel-dry the trap and let it complete drying in the dish rack. Running cool air through the mesh with a hair dryer will help the lint trap dry much faster. Replace the lint trap when the dryer is off.