5 Surprising Places in Your Dryer You Never Clean (But Should)

Most people think cleaning the lint trap is enough—but your dryer has several hidden spots where lint, fibers, and dust quietly accumulate. Ignoring these areas can lead to longer drying times, strange odors, and even safety risks like overheating or fire hazards.

In this article, we’ll highlight five surprising places inside your dryer that are often overlooked. Knowing where these trouble spots are is the first step toward keeping your dryer running efficiently and safely.

1. The Lint Trap Housing

While you probably remove and clean the lint filter after each load, the housing that holds the trap often gets ignored. Fibers and dust accumulate in the small spaces surrounding the filter, restricting airflow over time. Even a thin layer can make your dryer work harder and increase fire risk.

2. The Dryer Drum Edges and Seams

The edges of your drum and the seams where the metal meets the frame are easy to overlook. Clothing friction produces tiny fibers that cling to these narrow gaps. Over time, lint builds up and can become a breeding ground for bacteria or cause unpleasant smells.

3. The Exhaust Vent Inside the Dryer

Behind the lint trap, the vent that connects to your dryer's internal ducting often collects fine fibers. These fibers aren’t visible at first glance but can gradually reduce airflow, lowering drying efficiency and contributing to overheating.

4. The Dryer Door Seal / Gasket

The rubber seal around your dryer door is another hidden lint magnet. Dust, pet hair, and clothing fibers settle along the gasket and can even trap moisture. Over time, this can lead to odor or even mold growth if left unaddressed.

5. The Inside of the Dryer Drum Ventilation Holes

Some dryers have small holes inside the drum or at the back near the ventilation system. These tiny openings are perfect for catching microscopic fibers, but most users rarely check them. Blocked ventilation holes can restrict airflow, causing longer drying cycles and added strain on your appliance.

Conclusion

These five dryer areas are commonly overlooked but critical to your dryer’s efficiency, longevity, and safety. Understanding where lint and debris hide is the first step in preventing problems before they start.

These five dryer areas are commonly overlooked but critical to your dryer’s efficiency, longevity, and safety. Understanding where lint and debris hide is the first step in preventing problems before they start.