How to Clean Dryer Vent Duct
Clogged dryer vents cause approximately 2,900 house fires annually in the US. Annual cleaning is essential fire prevention.
For gas dryers: turn off the gas valve before disconnecting. Check for gas smell after reconnecting.
What You'll Need
- 1
- 1
- 1
- 1 roll
Step-by-Step Method
Unplug the dryer (or turn off gas valve for gas dryers). Pull the dryer away from the wall. Disconnect the vent hose from the dryer exhaust.
Insert the dryer vent brush into the vent opening on the wall (or through the hose). Feed the flexible rods in, spinning as you go. The brush scrubs lint off the duct walls.
Go outside and remove the vent cover. Insert the brush from this end and push back toward the interior. This catches lint from both directions.
Vacuum all loosened lint from both ends. Reconnect the vent hose with foil tape (never plastic duct tape, which deteriorates from heat). Push dryer back into position.
- Never use plastic duct tape on dryer vents (melts from heat)
- Do not use vinyl flex duct (fire hazard)
- Do not crush or kink the vent hose when pushing the dryer back
- Signs your vent needs cleaning: clothes take more than one cycle to dry, the dryer is hot to the touch, burning smell during drying, or lint visible at the exterior vent.
- Shorter, straighter vent runs are safer and more efficient. Each 90-degree turn reduces airflow by 25%.
- The exterior vent flap should open when the dryer runs. If it does not, the vent is blocked.
Frequently Asked Questions
At least once per year. Homes with long vent runs, multiple bends, or heavy dryer use need cleaning every 6 months. A dryer that takes longer than usual to dry clothes is the clearest sign the vent needs attention.
Sources & Methodology
NFPA fire statistics. CPSC dryer vent maintenance guidelines.
Last reviewed: March 20, 2026