Clothes Dryer Fire Prevention: Stopping Lint and Heat Buildup Before It Ignites

Dryer fires start because lint catches fire inside the appliance, the vent duct, or the wall. Lint is the most flammable material in your home, and dryers produce the heat needed to ignite it. Fires happen when airflow is restricted and temperatures rise. Before using your dryer heavily, make sure cords and outlets are safe by reviewing the extension cord safety guide.

1. Clean the Lint Screen Every Single Load

A clogged lint screen reduces airflow and forces the dryer to run hotter.

• Remove lint before every cycle—no exceptions.
• Wash the screen monthly to remove fabric softener residue.
• Never run the dryer without the lint screen installed.

Most dryer fires begin with a neglected lint screen.

2. Clean the Vent Duct at Least Once a Year

The vent duct is the single most dangerous part of a dryer system.

• Disconnect the duct and vacuum out lint buildup.
• Use a vent cleaning brush for long duct runs.
• Check for crushed or kinked ducts behind the dryer.
• Replace foil or plastic ducts with rigid or semi-rigid metal.

Plastic ducts melt and ignite quickly—replace them immediately.

3. Check the Outside Vent for Blockages

Outdoor vents clog from lint, pests, or winter frost.

• Verify the vent flap opens fully during operation.
• Clear lint buildup around the exit.
• Remove nests or debris restricting airflow.
• Ensure no vegetation blocks the exhaust path.

4. Watch for Warning Signs of a Failing Dryer System

Your dryer gives clear signals when airflow is restricted.

• Clothes take longer to dry
• Dryer or laundry room feels hotter than normal
• Burning or musty smell during operation
• Lint collecting behind or under the dryer

These signs mean heat is building up where it shouldn’t—fix immediately.

5. Avoid Overloading the Dryer

Overloading traps heat and reduces drum airflow.

• Dry smaller batches to reduce strain on the motor and exhaust path.
• Untangle clothing to avoid wet clumps blocking the vent screen.
• Do not dry items soaked in oils, fuels, or chemicals—they can ignite spontaneously.

6. Keep the Area Around the Dryer Clear

The dryer produces heat. Anything nearby can ignite.

• Keep cardboard boxes, clothes, and cleaning supplies away.
• Do not store items on top of the dryer—heat rises.
• Check the floor for lint piles and vacuum regularly.

7. Unplug or Turn Off the Dryer When Not in Use

Dryers shouldn’t run while you sleep or leave the house.

• Run loads during waking hours only.
• Shut off the dryer immediately if it smells hot.
• Replace dryers older than 10–12 years with safer modern units.

8. Quick Dryer Fire Prevention Checklist

• Lint screen cleaned every load
• Vent duct cleaned yearly
• Outdoor vent unobstructed
• No burning smells during operation
• No overloading
• Area around dryer kept clear
• Dryer not run unattended

Next steps: Now that appliance risks are covered, move on to exterior hazards with wildfire defensible space basics.