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Product Help | Whirlpool

Not Collecting Lint - Dryer

Possible Solutions

If lint is not collecting in your dryer, it could be due to a few possible causes. Here are some things to check and troubleshoot:

Is the Lint Screen inserted correctly?

The lint screen must be used during each load.  If it is not seated correctly, the lint might not be captured.  Remove the lint screen and reinsert ensuring it is fully inserted.

Is the Lint Screen clogged or dirty?

The lint screen should be cleaned regularly to remove the buildup of laundry products.  Remove the lint and wash the trap with warm water and soap to remove any buildup of detergent residue, which can reduce its effectiveness. Dry it completely before replacing it.

Is the Venting System blocked?

For the dryer to operate correctly, the entire venting system must be cleaned regularly and void of any obstruction. Run the dryer for 5-10 minutes to test the vent system. Hold your hand under the outside exhaust hood to check the air movement. If the air movement is weak, clean the lint from the entire length of the system and the exhaust hood. You can use a vent cleaning brush or hire a professional to clean the vent hose and ensure no blockage.

Is the Dryer Overloaded?

If you are overloading the dryer, the airflow may be restricted, and lint may not have a chance to be collected properly in the filter. Try drying smaller loads to see if the lint collection improves.

What Cycle was Selected?

Ensure that you are using the correct drying cycle. Some cycles, especially on energy-efficient dryers, are designed to remove moisture in a way that could prevent lint from being collected in the filter. Try using a high heat or normal cycle to see if it improves lint collection. 

What type of items were being dried?

Certain types of clothes and fabrics are more likely to produce lint in the dryer. See below for common lint producers vs. non-lint producers.

Non-Lint Producers

  1. Silk: Silk fibers are naturally smooth and don’t shed quickly, making them low in lint production. Handle silk carefully, as it can be delicate. Air drying or a gentle cycle is best for preserving silk garments.
  2. Linen: Linen fibers are long and don’t shed easily, so they're not prone to creating lint in the dryer. Linen is often best air-dried or dried on a low setting to avoid excessive wrinkling.
  3. Nylon: Nylon is a synthetic fiber with smooth, strong fibers that don’t shed much lint. Wash nylon separately from fabrics like cotton or fleece, as it can attract lint from other materials.

Heavy Lint Producers 

  1. Cotton Fabrics: Cotton fibers tend to break off more easily during drying, leading to lint generation. If you have many cotton items, try drying them in smaller loads to improve the lint collection.
  2. Fleece: Fleece is made of synthetic fibers that shed easily during drying. It's especially prone to linting when new. Wash fleece items separately from other clothes to avoid transferring lint.
  3. Wool: Wool fibers tend to shed when agitated in the dryer, which can result in lint buildup—dry wool items on a low or air-dry setting to minimize lint and avoid damage.

 

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