Tips

“Don’t Turn Your Dryer into a Heap of Scrap Metal”

"With the rising popularity of dryer machines, it's surprising that many homeowners are unaware of how to properly maintain them for longevity. Unfortunately, common mistakes can turn your dryer into a pile of scrap metal sooner than you think. Imagine if your dryer could outlast any other appliance in your home with just a few simple tips and tricks - that's where our expert advice comes in."

Administrator

28 July, 2024

Using a dryer can be convenient for many housewives, helping to quickly dry your beautiful clothes without much time and effort. However, if used incorrectly, both your clothes and your newly purchased dryer can be damaged.

Below are some mistakes to avoid when using a clothes dryer, as they can lead to premature wear and tear on your appliance.

1Using the Dryer on Soaking Wet Clothes

Some people think that “dryers are meant to dry wet clothes, so putting wet clothes in is correct”. This is true if you are using a dedicated dryer or a washing machine with a built-in dryer.

However, if you are using a cabinet dryer, never put in clothes that are still dripping wet. This is because the fan of this type of dryer is placed right below the clothes rack, and dripping water can cause electrical shorts or even fire hazards.

Do not put dripping wet clothes in a cabinet dryer

Before putting clothes in the dryer, make sure to wring them out thoroughly to avoid any dripping.

2Drying Clothes with Glue, Rhinestones, or Sequins

In some cases, dryers have caught fire due to clothes with glued-on details. The glue reacts to the high temperatures in the dryer and can cause a fire. So, be mindful of clothes with glued-on details and avoid putting them in the dryer.

Additionally, clothes with sequins, beads, or metal details can fall off during the drying process and damage the machine. It is best to avoid putting these types of clothes in the dryer as well.

3Not Cleaning the Lint Trap After Each Use

Similar to a washing machine, not cleaning the lint trap regularly can lead to a buildup of lint, which can react to the high temperatures and cause a fire.

4Lack of Regular Maintenance

It is important to clean your dryer regularly with soap and water at least once a month to improve drying efficiency and prevent fires caused by lint and residue buildup.

5Overloading or Underloading the Dryer

Putting too many or too few items in the dryer can increase drying time and waste energy. It is best to estimate the amount of clothing relative to the capacity of the dryer for more efficient use.

Tip: If you are drying a small load, you can add 1-2 clean towels to optimize the space in the dryer.

6Not Sorting Clothes Before Drying

Many people make the mistake of not sorting their clothes by fabric type before drying. This can lead to damage to your clothes as different fabrics have different drying requirements. Thin fabrics should be dried at lower temperatures, while thicker fabrics require higher temperatures and longer drying times.

Adjust the drying temperature accordingly to ensure faster drying times without compromising the quality of your clothes.

Some additional tips for using a clothes dryer:

– Before drying your clothes, place a fabric softener sheet in the dryer for every 10-12 loads of laundry. This will help keep your clothes soft, fragrant, and static-free. It is also an effective way to eliminate musty odors from long-stored clothes.

– Keep the dryer door closed during the drying process to prevent heat loss and increase energy efficiency.

– Avoid over-drying as high temperatures can cause fabric shrinkage and increase energy consumption.

These are some common mistakes to avoid when using a clothes dryer. Remember these tips to prolong the life of your dryer and your clothes!

Frequently asked questions

There are a few potential reasons why your dryer may be making a scraping noise. One possibility is that the dryer’s drum glide, which supports the front of the drum, may be worn out or damaged. Another possibility is that the drum support roller may be worn out, causing the drum to scrape against the front or rear bulkhead. It’s also possible that there is a foreign object caught in the drum, such as a coin or a button, which is causing the scraping noise.

To fix a scraping dryer, you’ll need to identify the cause of the problem and then take the necessary steps to address it. If the drum glide is worn out, you’ll need to replace it. You can purchase a replacement drum glide online or at a hardware store. If the drum support roller is worn out, you’ll need to replace it as well. Again, you can find replacement rollers online or at a hardware store. If there is a foreign object caught in the drum, you’ll need to remove it. First, unplug the dryer and then use a flashlight to carefully inspect the drum for any objects that may be caught in it.

There are several preventative measures you can take to avoid dryer issues. First, be sure to clean the lint filter after each load of laundry. A clogged lint filter can restrict air flow and cause the dryer to work harder than necessary. Second, periodically inspect the exhaust vent to ensure it is not blocked or restricted. A blocked vent can lead to excessive heat buildup and potential fires. Finally, avoid overloading the dryer. Not only can this damage the dryer over time, but it will also increase the amount of lint buildup and reduce the efficiency of the appliance.

There are several signs that may indicate your dryer needs repair. Unusual noises, such as scraping or squealing, are a clear indication that something is wrong. If your dryer is taking longer than usual to dry clothes, it could be a sign of restricted air flow or a malfunctioning part. If your clothes are coming out of the dryer hotter than usual, it could be a sign of a blocked vent or a malfunctioning thermostat. Finally, if you notice any strange smells coming from the dryer, it’s important to have it inspected as it could indicate a burned-out element or a blocked vent.