What’s happened? How can you clean the dryer?
The problem is often not the dryer itself, but how the appliance is maintained. Dirty filters, a blocked heat exchanger or a blocked lint filter can have a massive impact on performance. Regular cleaning is essential for your dryer to keep working efficiently. Find out in this guide how you can clean your dryer step by step – and not only achieve optimal results but also save energy.
Why is it so important to clean the dryer?
If a dryer isn’t cleaned regularly, its performance will inevitably deteriorate and the appliance will need more time to dry laundry. Plus, it may also smell unpleasant. Blocked filters or a dirty heat exchanger impact how the appliance works and increase energy consumption. The solution: regular maintenance prevents all this and results in fresh laundry with every use.
How often does the lint filter need to be cleaned?
The lint filter should be cleaned after every use. This removes the lint that accumulates during drying and prevents the dryer from becoming blocked. Detach the lint filter, wipe off the lint by hand or brush and rinse it off under running water.
How about the dryer filter? Does that also need to be cleaned?
Yes. Besides the lint filter, the dryer filter should also be cleaned regularly. Here’s how it’s done:
First open the filter. Take a look at the user manual to find out how to open it correctly.
Then remove the lint and clean the filter with a soft brush.
Rinse with water: hold the filter under running water to make sure fine dust particles are also removed.
And how about the heat exchanger (condenser) in the dryer?
Not all dryers have a visible heat exchanger. If your appliance is equipped with one, it should be cleaned at least every three months. Here’s how it’s done:
Remove the condenser: open the flap and take out the condenser.
Then rinse with water. Clean the heat exchanger under running water to remove all the dust and lint.
Important: let the condenser dry properly before reattaching it to your appliance.
What to do if your dryer stinks?
An unpleasant odour usually indicates dirt or moisture in the appliance. Clean all parts thoroughly, especially the lint filter and the heat exchanger as described above. You can also wipe off the drum with a damp cloth and a little vinegar. Important: regular cleaning prevents odours from developing in the first place.
Does a dryer need to be descaled?
Descaling the dryer is usually unnecessary for modern appliances. The important thing is to always keep the dryer and washing machine clean. Have a look at our guide on cleaning washing machines to make sure your appliance keeps working smoothly.
Quick summary:
Lint filter: Clean after every use.
Filter and heat exchanger: Clean every 2–3 months.
Complete appliance: Clean thoroughly whenever odours develop.
Regular cleaning ensures your appliance works effectively, dries efficiently, saves energy and achieves fresh-smelling laundry results.
