How to Clean a Dryer Vent

Clean your dryer vent by disconnecting the dryer, removing lint from the vent hose and exterior opening, then reassembling everything securely.

1. Power Down and Create Space. Unplug the dryer from the electrical outlet and turn off the gas supply if you have a gas dryer. Carefully pull the dryer away from the wall to access the back connections. You'll need about 3-4 feet of working space behind the unit.
2. Disconnect the Vent Hose. Loosen the clamp connecting the flexible vent hose to the back of your dryer using a screwdriver. Pull the hose off the dryer's exhaust port. If the hose is stuck, gently twist it while pulling to break any lint buildup seal.
3. Brush Out the Hose. Take the hose outside and shake out loose lint. Use a dryer vent brush or long-handled brush to scrub the inside walls, working from both ends. For heavily clogged hoses, you may need to replace the entire hose rather than clean it.
4. Clear the External Vent. Remove the exterior vent cover by unscrewing it from the outside wall. Pull out any lint buildup by hand, then use your vent brush to scrub the ductwork as far as you can reach. A shop vacuum with a long attachment works well for sucking out stubborn debris.
5. Vacuum the Exhaust Port. Use your brush or vacuum to clean lint from the exhaust port on the back of the dryer. This circular opening often accumulates significant lint buildup that restricts airflow.
6. Reconnect and Restore Power. Reattach the clean vent hose to the dryer's exhaust port and tighten the clamp securely. Push the dryer back into position, ensuring the hose isn't kinked or compressed. Replace the exterior vent cover and restore power or gas to the dryer.