Tumble dryers have become an essential appliance in British households, particularly during winter, when it's almost impossible to dry your clothes outside.

However, to ensure they operate safely and efficiently, regular cleaning is required.

Having a clean tumble dryer not only extends the life span of your appliance but also reduces the buildup of lint that can catch fire. 

Here, we’ve assembled a step-by-step guide to the process of how to clean a tumble dryer from top to bottom, covering the exterior, drum, and filter.

How to clean a tumble dryer

First, it is important to note that tumble dryers should be deep cleaned every few months to keep them in good working condition.

It may sound like a daunting task, but it’s a straightforward task that can be completed in no time with a few simple tools.

The exterior

Unplug: Before cleaning any part of your tumble dryer, the first step is to switch it off at the wall and unplug it to avoid any electrical accidents.

Cleaning supplies: Once unplugged, you can gather the necessary cleaning supplies, including a vacuum cleaner with a smaller nozzle attachment to get into tighter spaces, warm soapy water, a soft cloth and a microfibre cloth to polish with.  

Vacuum: Start by removing any loose dust or lint from the dryer's exterior with the vacuum nozzle attachment.

You should move the vacuum over the control panel and around the door, paying extra attention to crevices or areas where dust is more likely to accumulate.

Wipe down: When all the visible surface dust has been removed, slightly dampen your soft cloth with warm, soapy water and wipe down the control panel. Ensure the cloth is damp and not saturated with water to avoid moisture seeping into the control or display. Finish by drying the area with a clean, dry cloth. 

Polish: The last step is to use your microfibre cloth to gently polish the exterior surface of your dryer to make it look clean and shiny.

The drum

The next step in cleaning your tumble dryer is to move to the interior, as it is important to remove any fabric softener buildup and other residue that can affect your appliance’s performance.

Empty: Start by emptying the drum of any laundry or debris to make cleaning easier.

Wipe down: Similar to the exterior, you should wipe down the interior drum with a damp cloth to remove any visible residue. If you notice any stains or considerable buildup, use warm soapy water to help wash them away. 

Once all visible dirt and debris are gone, rinse the drum with clean water and use another cloth to dry it.

Inspect seal: As part of the cleaning process, it is important to check the rubber gasket around the door, also known as the drum seal, for any signs of damage. This seal is essential for keeping your dryer working at maximum efficiency, so if you notice any issues, we recommend contacting the manufacturer for further information.

Cycle: To ensure the interior is completely clean, we recommend running an empty cycle with no clothes or heat. This will ensure there is no residue or lint left in the drum. 

Dryer balls: An extra step to help keep your drum clean is adding a few dryer balls to each cycle. This will help improve airflow among your clothes and reduce lint buildup over time. 

The filter

The tumble dryer filter, or lint screen, is one of the most crucial parts of your machine to keep clean. It is essential to regularly clean and maintain the filter to prevent lint buildup, which not only reduces the efficiency of your dryer but is also a serious fire hazard.

Find filter: The first step is to find the filter; this is usually located inside the door rim or on top of the dryer. If you are struggling to see it, consult the user manual. 

Remove: Carefully remove the lint filter and dispose of any built-up lint and debris trapped inside. This can be done by hand or using a small soft brush to remove everything visible. Whilst cleaning, check for any damage or tears.

Wash: Now all the dry debris is removed, you will want to wash your filter in warm, soapy water before allowing it to dry completely.

Vacuum: While drying your filter, use the nozzle attachment on your vacuum to remove any loose lint in the area where the filter is housed. 

Reinstall: When the filter is dry, you can reinsert it into the slot, ensuring it is completely sealed. 

Ventilation duct: If your tumble dryer has a ventilation duct attached to the lint filter, inspect it for any blockages. Carefully clear any visible obstructions using a vacuum or brush.

Once you have completed all of these steps to clean the exterior, drum and filter, the final step is to reconnect and test your appliance. Run a short cycle to ensure your tumble dryer is functioning normally. 

By following these simple step by step instructions on how to clean a tumble dryer, you'll be able to keep your appliance in top condition, ensuring it works efficiently and safely.

Regular cleaning may seem like a chore, but in the long term, it will extend the lifespan of your dryer, saving you a lot of time and money.

Want to upgrade your tumble dryer?

If your tumble dryer needs to be upgraded to keep your clothes warm and dry this winter, why not explore our range available at Home Feeling?

Since 2023, we have provided high-quality kitchen appliances to customers across the UK, and have a selection of tumble dryers to cater to your needs and preferences.

If you have any questions or would like more information, don’t hesitate to contact our team today by dialling 01543 228622 or send an email to support@homefeeling.co.uk