Lint buildup on clothing isn't ideal, as the tiny fibers can distract from the visual appeal of your garments. The material often forms when clothes are put in the dryer. The tumbling motion and exposure to heat cause clothing to shed fibers. The fibers that don't end up in the lint trap can drift into the cabinet and restrict airflow, which is why routine dryer vent cleaning is necessary. Here are some suggestions to reduce the amount of lint on your apparel. 

How to Prevent Lint Buildup on Clothes

1. Check Clothing Pockets

Fibers shed from clothing aren't the only sources of lint. Tissue and paper break down when wet in the washing machine. To keep these materials off your clothes, turn your pants and shirt pockets inside out before you put the garments in the wash. Throw away any old napkins, tissues, and paper you find in the pouches.  

2. Switch From Dryer Sheets to Microfiber Squares 

Although dryer sheets are designed to catch lint on clothing, they also leave residue on the lint trap. This makes it difficult for the screen to do its job. The film can also build up on other dryer components, decreasing the operating efficiency of the appliance. 

To avoid these concerns, put a microfiber square in the dryer with your clothes instead of a dryer sheet. Lint will stick to the squares without leaving damaging residue behind in the machine.

3. Clean the Lint Trap

When the lint trap is covered in fuzzy particles, it can no longer attract lint when you dry your clothes. That's why you should always clean out the screen before you do laundry. 

The trap is in the dryer door or on the top portion of the machine. A clean screen will also prevent lint from blocking the dryer vent, which means dryer vent cleaning technicians won't have to remove as much lint buildup during routine service calls later.   

In addition to cleaning the lint trap, you'll need dryer vent cleaning to improve the efficiency and safety of your appliance. The professionals at Urbana Dryer Vent Cleaning in Frederick, MD, have cleaned, repaired, and installed dryer vents for homeowners since 2017. They'll keep your machine operating smoothly and reduce the risk of fires caused by lint buildup. Learn more about their services online, or call (240) 258-8968 to schedule dryer vent cleaning.