Step 1. Starting with the lint screen
First thing is to remove the lint screen and wipe it to take off all the lint. Then use a narrow, long-handheld brush and insert it into the opening of the lint trap. Reach as far as possible into the interior of the opening while moving the brush around to dislodge dirt. After doing this several times, remove the brush.
Step 2. Taking off lint from the bristles
Now is the time to attend to the bristles and remove all the lint building up on them. Repeat the cleaning process many times until you are satisfied with the result.
Step 3. Securing and disconnecting the dryer
Next step is to secure your safety by disconnecting the dryer from the wall outlet to pull it away from the wall. This will give way for you to clean and vacuum the floor behind it as well as the back of the dryer’s cabinet. For gas dryer models, it’s best to leave this work to the professional for your ultimate safety. They have all the dryer vent cleaning tools in their box to properly work on your machine without risking any fire hazard.
Step 4. Removing the lint from the rear duct
At this time, pull off the duct from the rear of your dryer, or there may be clamp used to attach it. Just take it off and clean all the lint from the duct using a dryer vent brush, then vacuum out all the loosen lint.
Step 5. Cleaning the ductwork in the wall
Now, you have to tend to the ductwork in the wall by reaching as deeper into the vent as you can. Using the same huge vent brush, remove all the accumulated lint from the ductwork and the bristles. Make sure that there’s no remaining lint before you finish this part.
Step 6. Finishing off with the vent cover
For the final step, clean the vent cover which can be usually found on the exterior of your home. Use the same dryer vent cleaning tools and process to get rid of all the lint. Just make sure you’ve left no part unattended before you replace back the duct onto its proper place and seal all the seams with an aluminum tape.