It’s no surprise that at one point or another you’ve noticed a strange odor coming from your dryer.
Whether it’s a musty odor or a smell that reminds you of a wet dog having an unpleasant smell coming from your dryer can be alarming.
In this blog post we’ll answer the question of why your dryer may smell like a wet dog and provide tips to help you get rid of the smell.
What Causes the Wet Dog Smell?
The most common cause of a dryer that smells like a wet dog is a clogged or dirty lint filter.
Lint is created through the drying process and if your lint filter is clogged or dirty it will prevent the air from circulating properly.
This can cause the wet dog smell to linger and increase in intensity over time.
Other potential causes of the wet dog smell include:
- Moisture buildup in the dryer drum
- A faulty or blocked exhaust vent
- Worn out drum seals
- Dirty or clogged ductwork
How to Get Rid of the Wet Dog Smell
The best way to get rid of the wet dog smell coming from your dryer is to start by cleaning the lint filter.
This can often be done with a vacuum and a soft brush.
Be sure to check the filter for any blockages or tears that may be causing the smell.
If the lint filter is clean it’s important to check the dryer drum for any moisture buildup.
To do this simply wipe down the inside of the drum with a dry cloth.
If you’re still unable to get rid of the wet dog smell it’s a good idea to check the exhaust vent for any blockages or damage.
If you find any it’s important to have the vent professionally cleaned and repaired.
Finally if you’re still unable to get rid of the smell it’s a good idea to check the seals and ductwork for any dirt or debris.
Cleaning these components can help to reduce the smell.
Conclusion
When your dryer is smelling like a wet dog it can be a bit of a nuisance.
However it’s usually an easy fix.
Make sure that the lint trap is clean and that the exhaust hose is free of any clogs or obstructions.
You should also inspect the dryer for any potential leaks and make sure that you are not putting any wet or damp loads into the dryer.
Doing these few simple steps should help get rid of the wet dog smell from your dryer.