Your clothes dryer is designed to keep your clothes fresh and clean, and it is probably the last place you’d expect to find a stench. However, as is the case with other major appliances, malodorous scents are always a possibility, especially when routine maintenance and dryer repair fall by the wayside. While replacement parts or repairs may be necessary, usually, a bit of cleaning will suffice. If you smell something bad coming from your dryer, here are three possible causes. 

3 Reasons Why Clothing Dryers Smell Bad

1. Lint

If there’s a musty smell, check the lint trap. When the screen is clogged, moisture can latch onto it and create an odor that smells like unwashed clothes. Most lint can be removed by hand, but for the stubborn bits, use the hose attachment on your vacuum. Then, to remove any potential mold or mildew, wash the screen with warm water and a little bit of soap. A few drops of dishwashing detergent will do the trick. Rinse and dry it thoroughly before returning it. To make the task easier in the future, get in the habit of removing the lint after every load.

Cleaning the lint trap is also a necessary safety precaution. In addition to the electrical fire risk that’s inherent of all major appliances, dryers pose a specific fire hazard due to the lint. Every year, nearly 3,000 home fires are caused by clogged lint traps. Because the material is dry, airy, and made of short flammable fibers, it’s easily combustible. Keeping the trap clear will keep your home safe and smelling fresh, and will eliminate your need for dryer repair. 

2. Detergent Residue

Although it seems unlikely, your laundry detergent could also be the culprit. If your clothes aren’t thoroughly rinsed when they go into the dryer, some of it can get left behind in the dryer drum, resulting in a burning smell. Wiping it down with a bleach and water mixture should remove whatever remains. Use one part bleach for every ten parts of water. You should also always wear gloves while completing this task. Leave the drum to dry with the door open for 30 minutes, then dry a few wet towels on high heat for a full cycle. 

3. Pests

Although it’s rare, there’s also a small chance an animal may have gotten into a vent duct or the dryer itself, then either expired or left some droppings. While unlikely, this is a possibility for any major appliance connected to ducting. If you’re using the dryer frequently, pests are more likely to stay away. 

If you are still experiencing dryer odors, you can turn to Ace Appliance Sale & Service for dryer repair. For more than 40 years, residents and businesses throughout the Anchorage, AK, area have trusted them for all their major appliance needs. Whether you only need a replacement part or more extensive repairs, their experienced and knowledgeable staff will have a solution. To get started, call them today at (907) 272-8949.