Dryer Sheets Clogging Lint Filters - It's True

You might think this post a bit mundane but when it comes to a $100 service charge to have a repair man come out to fix your dryers burnt out heating unit think again. Also the following information may help to prevent a fire starting in your home as well from an over heated unit.

For some loads I use the pretty smelling dryer sheets that can leave a waxy invisible film over the tiny, mesh lint screen. Since I don't use them often my filter did not have much water floating on it when I cleaned it up with soap and water. But this thin waxy film can cause your dryers heating unit to burn out with out that even having any lint on it at all because no air can filter through it, so remember to wash it gently with soap and water when needed.

I also NEVER dry shoes in the dryer - it's not only too noisy but my guess is the heavy shifting and banging isn't good for internal dryer parts, causing things to shift loose. I do turn the insides of the shoes outward during the washing machines spin cycle, sometimes twice, then let shoes air dry. Mine are usually dry in a day.

I've also have a friend, who after buying a new washer and dryer, was charged $100 dollars on several occasions just to have a repair man come out to her house and fix a few broken parts. The damage might have been caused from washing and drying large horse blankets with metal latches and work boots. After a few visits from the repair man she could have saved her money and bought a new system (she realized this).

There are good suggestions as well at Dryer Vent Wizard along with tips and tools to protect your home. Wiki-How also has a page showing you how to clean a clothes dryer vent, there are also other great cleaning tips at the bottom of that link.