Introduction
Dryers are an essential part of laundry day but when they start to smell, it can be an unpleasant experience. Many people don’t realize that over time, lint, dirt, and other debris can accumulate in the lint trap and dryer vent, which can cause odors. Additionally, if the rubber seal around the door is cracked or worn, it can also contribute to musty smells.
This article provides an 8-step guide for cleaning a dryer that smells. Each step is easy to follow and can help eliminate odors and keep your dryer running smoothly.
Vacuum Lint From the Lint Trap and Dryer Vent
The first step in cleaning a smelly dryer is to vacuum lint from the lint trap and dryer vent. This will help remove debris that can cause odors and also allow air to circulate more freely. Here’s what you need to do:
Steps for Cleaning Lint Trap
1. Unplug the dryer and remove the lint screen.
2. Vacuum lint from the lint screen and surrounding area.
3. Replace the lint screen and plug in the dryer.
Steps for Cleaning Dryer Vent
1. Unplug the dryer and pull it away from the wall.
2. Disconnect the dryer vent from the back of the dryer.
3. Vacuum lint from the dryer vent and surrounding area.
4. Reconnect the dryer vent and push the dryer back into place.
5. Plug in the dryer.
Clean Interior of Dryer With Damp Cloth
The next step is to clean the interior of the dryer with a damp cloth. This will help remove any residue or buildup on the interior walls that may be contributing to odors. Here’s what you need to do:
Steps for Cleaning Interior of Dryer
1. Unplug the dryer and open the door.
2. Wipe down the interior walls with a damp cloth.
3. Close the door and plug in the dryer.
Use Odor-Eliminating Spray or Carpet Freshener Inside Drum
The next step is to use an odor-eliminating spray or carpet freshener inside the drum. This will help absorb and neutralize odors. Here’s what you need to do:
Steps for Using Odor-Eliminating Spray
1. Unplug the dryer and open the door.
2. Spray the interior walls with an odor-eliminating spray.
3. Allow the spray to sit for 10 minutes.
4. Close the door and plug in the dryer.
Steps for Using Carpet Freshener
1. Unplug the dryer and open the door.
2. Sprinkle carpet freshener inside the drum.
3. Allow the freshener to sit for 10 minutes.
4. Vacuum up the freshener with a handheld vacuum.
5. Close the door and plug in the dryer.
Place Box of Baking Soda Inside Drum to Absorb Odors
The next step is to place a box of baking soda inside the drum to absorb odors. This is an effective way to reduce odors and keep them from returning. Here’s what you need to do:
Steps for Placing Baking Soda Inside Drum
1. Unplug the dryer and open the door.
2. Place a box of baking soda inside the drum.
3. Close the door and plug in the dryer.
Replace Rubber Seal Around Door if Cracked or Worn
If the rubber seal around the door is cracked or worn, it should be replaced. This will help prevent odors from escaping and entering the dryer. Here’s what you need to do:
Steps for Replacing Rubber Seal
1. Unplug the dryer and open the door.
2. Remove the old rubber seal and discard it.
3. Replace the rubber seal with a new one.
4. Close the door and plug in the dryer.
Run Empty Cycle on Highest Setting With Cup of White Vinegar Placed in Drum
The final step is to run an empty cycle on the highest setting with a cup of white vinegar placed in the drum. This will help remove any remaining odors. Here’s what you need to do:
Steps for Running Empty Cycle
1. Unplug the dryer and open the door.
2. Place a cup of white vinegar inside the drum.
3. Close the door and plug in the dryer.
4. Select the highest heat setting and press start.
Conclusion
Cleaning a smelly dryer can be an unpleasant task but it doesn’t have to be difficult. By following these 8 simple steps, you can eliminate odors and keep your dryer running smoothly. The steps include vacuuming lint from the lint trap and dryer vent, cleaning the interior of the dryer with a damp cloth, using odor-eliminating spray or carpet freshener, placing baking soda inside the drum, and replacing the rubber seal around the door. Finally, running an empty cycle on the highest setting with a cup of white vinegar placed in the drum will help remove any remaining odors.
