Remove the lint trap as you normally would and set it aside. If the lint screen has a lot of buildup, wash it with warm soapy water and let it dry completely before putting it back in. Using the hose ...

Dear Heloise: I read your column in the Patriot-News and have seen several letters suggesting that fabric softener sheets can be used to clean a dryer’s lint screen.I suggest that folks check ...

Cleaning the lint screen will help prevent buildup of lint in other, harder-to-reach spots too, saving you the hassle of tracking down a future venting problem. Clean around the lint screen, too.

After wiping off the bulk of the lint, as you’d usually do, take the screen to a sink. Run hot water over the mesh, then gently scrub both sides with an old toothbrush or nylon-bristle brush.

Dear Heloise: I read your column in the Patriot-News and have seen several letters suggesting that fabric softener sheets can be used to clean a dryer's lint screen. I suggest that folks check the ...

Start with the Lint Screen. To begin, find your lint screen. This small piece of your appliance catches stray clothing fibers and lint and should be cleaned every time you use your dryer.

Run the dryer screen under the water from a kitchen faucet and see how much water runs through. If there is a buildup that will not allow water to go through the screen, use some dishwashing soap ...

Then, you’ll want to deep clean the lint screen and screen holder about every six months. Cleaning the dryer vent and ducts can be tackled less frequently, roughly once every two years.

Lint. If it’s taking longer than usual for your clothes to dry or the clothes are super hot after a dry cycle, you could have a build-up of lint—even if it’s not visible in the lint screen.

Dear Heloise: I read your column in the Patriot-News and have seen several letters suggesting that fabric softener sheets can be used to clean a dryer’s lint screen.I suggest that folks check ...