If washed properly, the cloths always retain some lint. One of the functions of the tumble dryer is precisely to remove the greatest possible quantity of loose fibers during the drying cycle; however, it can happen that freshly dried laundry is still covered with lint. It is possible to greatly reduce this phenomenon by carrying out regular maintenance of the appliance and following some rules for drying clothes.
Steps
Part 1 of 4: Clean the Filter and Lint Grid
Step 1. Locate the fluff grid
Depending on the model of the dryer, it could be placed on the top or on the inside of the door; if in doubt, consult the user manual.
Step 2. Find the lint filter
It is located inside the grille, which is basically the housing in which the filter is inserted; the latter is specifically designed to remove lint from clothing and retain it. If too much lint builds up, it will eventually transfer back to the laundry.
Step 3. Remove the filter from the grill
Gently pull it up, it shouldn't resist. The filter looks a lot like a mosquito net fixed on a plastic frame.
Step 4. Remove any visible lint trapped on the filter
The easiest way to get started is to use your fingers.
- A good trick is to grab some fluff in the corner of the filter and run your fingers across the surface to pick up the fluff.
- Make sure you clean the entire filter and discard the removed lint.
Step 5. Use the vacuum cleaner to clean the filter
Mount the brush accessory, turn on the appliance and slide it over the entire surface; this way, you should get rid of any residual fiber.
Step 6. Clean the grill with the vacuum cleaner
Fit the elongated spout to the end of the tube and gently slide it into the filter housing as far as you can get it into; this allows you to get rid of the lint left inside the grill.
Step 7. Dust the grille and filter area with a cloth
Choose a soft one to remove the last traces of fluff; if you notice stubborn fibers, go over the surface with scented dryer sheets: their electrostatic properties should capture any lint.
Step 8. Clean the inside of the door
Use a soft rag and, if necessary, a scented note just like in the previous step.
Step 9. Insert the filter back into its housing
Once cleaned, it should slide easily into the grill. When it is firmly fixed, you should hear the clicking noise; if not, pull it out again and insert it again until you hear the sound.
Step 10. Clean the filters thoroughly about once a month
Remove and wash them with hot soapy water; let them air dry completely before putting them back in place.
Part 2 of 4: Dry the Clothes
Step 1. Remove all items from pockets
Do this before washing your laundry, to avoid problems with fluff while drying. The most frequent cause of this problem is the presence of receipts, tickets and candy wrappers left in the pockets.
Step 2. Remove the clothes from the washing machine
Extract them one at a time and take the time to shake them a little to detach some of the loose fibers; in this way, you prevent the fabrics from creasing during the drying cycle.
Step 3. Inspect the laundry thoroughly
If you notice any paper towels, lint or foreign particles, remove them, as they contribute to the build-up of lint.
Step 4. Separate the garments that are likely to release the fibers
You need to dry them separately to minimize lint and to prevent lint from transferring to the rest of the laundry. Soft terry towels are the main culprits for this phenomenon - drying them with the rest of the laundry increases the likelihood of facing a lint problem.
- Turn clothes that are susceptible to lint inside out to prevent it from transferring.
- It is useful to dry dark and light garments separately, as the lint is more visible against the dark background.
Step 5. Place a scented note in the dryer
It is a specific product that reduces the formation of static electricity and lint, so it is worth using it; each slip is effective only for one cycle.
If you are drying a lot of laundry, add an extra slip or two
Step 6. Inspect the filter thoroughly
Make sure it is clean by pulling it out of the grid and removing any visible loose fibers; throw out the fluff as you usually would.
Step 7. Place the clothes in the dryer drum
Insert them one at a time, to prevent them from sticking or knotting together, which favors the formation of fluff; this precaution also prevents the formation of wrinkles.
Step 8. Turn on the appliance
Let it do its work and make sure you have set the correct cycle according to the manufacturer's recommendations; if you have any doubts, consult the user manual.
Step 9. Remove the clothes from the dryer
They should be free of lint; remember to throw away the fabric softener sheet you used.
Step 10. Take out and clean the filter
Put it back in its place at the end of the procedure; at this point, you're ready for another absolutely lint-free load!
Part 3 of 4: Thoroughly Clean the Inside of the Dryer
Step 1. Close the gas valve (if present) and unplug the dryer from the power outlet
Don't worry, the procedure is identical for the electric and gas models, but in both cases you must disconnect the power before cleaning.
Step 2. Define how your specific appliance is disassembled
Generally, the dryer is available in two versions: the one with the filter placed in the upper part and the one with the filter inserted inside the door; if you have any doubts, consult the user manual.
Step 3. Disassemble a model with the filter at the top
You will need a screwdriver to do this, although this type of appliance is assembled in such a way that it can be easily disassembled. Look under the filter, you should see some screws; remove them using the screwdriver.
- Remove the top panel from the inserts. To do this, you have to pull it forward and then yank it upwards; you should be able to easily remove it from the grafts in the corners.
- Disconnect the wiring connected to the door switch located in the front corner; then, detach the front panel by unscrewing the two screws located near the top plate.
- Tilt the dryer slightly forward to be able to easily detach the front panel; at this point, you should see the internal workings of the appliance.
- Carefully remove the fluff from the inside using a brush and clean everything around the drum with a vacuum cleaner with a long spout.
- Thoroughly clean the heating element, but be careful near cables and small components.
- Put the front panel back in place; tighten the front screws and reconnect the harnesses.
- Place the top panel in its inserts and secure it with the screws located under the filter.
Step 4. Disassemble a tumble dryer with the filter placed inside the door
You will need a screwdriver for this, although these appliances are quite simply built and you shouldn't have any difficulties. Remove the lower front panel (located at the base of the dryer) by sliding the screwdriver from the top; in this way, you release the two grafts that hold it in place.
- If your model has a removable panel, there is no need to use a screwdriver with this technique; simply open the couplings, remove the screws and disassemble the plate. At this point, you should have access to the internal workings of the appliance.
- Clean the area around the motor and the various components using the vacuum cleaner with a long spout.
- Dust carefully around electrical elements and small parts to avoid damaging them.
- Mount the front panel back in place; if your dryer is equipped with fixing screws, do not forget to tighten them correctly.
Step 5. Connect the device to the mains and, if applicable, open the gas valve
When working around power sources, pay attention to the pipes on the back of appliances.
Part 4 of 4: Clean the Lint Air Vent
Step 1. Close the gas valve (if provided) and remove the plug from the socket
You don't have to worry: the procedure is the same for both gas and electric models, but in both cases you must disconnect the power supply before cleaning; if in doubt, consult the appliance manual.
Step 2. Locate the fluff air vent
In most models it is located in the back, near the base or at the top; you have to look for a flexible aluminum conduit or pipe.
Step 3. Gently pull the tube to detach it from the wall
This way, you can access the vent; work very carefully as you proceed with this operation.
Step 4. Remove the vent from the wall
Take a screwdriver and loosen the metal clamp that secures the air intake; put it on the floor for now.
Step 5. Pull the duct out
Always proceed with great care to avoid puncturing it; set it carefully aside for now.
Step 6. Clean the hose and vent
To get good results, use a special pipe cleaner and turn it clockwise; you can also decide to rotate it in the opposite direction, but remember to respect the direction you have decided, without constantly changing it.
Step 7. Clean the tube you disassembled
Lift it gently, hold it in front of you and sweep it with the pipe cleaner; at this point, the floor should be full of lint!
Step 8. Take the vacuum cleaner and use it inside the vent and hose
Hook the long spout and remove any textile fiber residue; proceed with caution to avoid damaging any part.
Step 9. Clean the floor
Keep the spout attachment on the vacuum cleaner and get rid of all the dust and lint that is on the ground; do not neglect the corners and crevices.
Step 10. Fit the vent in place
Don't forget to tighten the screws on the clamp and carefully insert the tube.
Step 11. Move the dryer back to the wall again
Remember to move carefully near the pipes, as they break easily; however, as long as you work carefully, you shouldn't run into any problems.
Step 12. Insert the plug into the socket and, if provided, open the gas valve
When working on power sources, special care is required not to damage the pipes behind the appliance.
Step 13. Turn on the dryer for 10-15 seconds
In this way, you expel any residual lint; when finished, turn it off: now you can use it to dry your laundry!
Advice
- Do not dry the laundry completely in the appliance. Remove the cloths when they are almost dry and finish the process in the air; this way, you minimize the amount of lint that sticks to your clothes.
- Try pouring 120ml of vinegar into the washing machine when washing. This "trick" should prevent lint from forming.
- Dust the outside of the dryer often and sweep the floor to get rid of the lint.
- Fabrics made from natural fibers, such as cotton or wool, generate more lint than synthetic fabrics.
