How to prevent a dryer fire

Doing laundry feels harmless, but a dryer full of lint can catch fire. The fix is a habit that takes a few seconds per load.

Every load

  • Clean the lint filter before or after each load. Remove lint that has collected around the drum.
  • Never run the dryer without the lint filter in place.
  • Don't overload it.
  • Turn the dryer off if you leave home or go to bed.

Around the dryer

  • Keep the area clear of things that can burn, like boxes, cleaning supplies and clothing.
  • Clothes that have touched gasoline, paint thinner or similar solvents should dry outside first. Then you can wash and dry them as usual.
  • If the outdoor vent flap is covered by snow, clear it.

Tell your landlord if

  • clothes take longer than normal to dry. The vent pipe may be clogged with lint.
  • the dryer gets very hot on the outside or smells like burning.
  • you smell gas near a gas dryer.

If you smell gas, leave first and call 911 or the gas company from outside.

Common questions

Why is my dryer taking so long to dry clothes?

Often the vent pipe is clogged with lint, which also raises the risk of fire. Clean the lint filter and tell your landlord so the vent can be cleaned.

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Sources

Updated October 1, 2026. General safety information. It doesn't replace your building's safety systems, local codes or your lease. In an emergency, call 911.

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