How to Clean a Whirlpool Dryer Properly
You always can count on Whirlpool to keep your favorite clothes or linens fresh and dry. While its line of dryers is built to handle countless loads and cycles, upkeep is crucial to get the most out of your appliance. Routine cleaning not only ensures optimal performance, but it also helps the machine last longer. Below are some basic instructions and tips for how to clean a Whirlpool dryer properly.
Cleaning the Interior Dryer Drum
The drum can get dirty over time or if soiled garments and linens cause staining. The instructions below show you how to clean the dryer drum:
- Step 1. Mix mild dish soap with warm water.
- Step 2. Using a soft cloth, scrub the interior drum surfaces.
- Step 3. Rinse the drum surfaces with a wet towel or sponge.
- Step 4a. Dry the drum by either running a load of clean clothing or linens. If this doesn’t seem suitable for you, proceed to Step 4b.
- Step 4b. Dry the drum by using microfiber cloths and a spray bottle of hot water. Use one cloth and the hot water to wipe down the drum. Use a second cloth to dry the drum surfaces.
Items with dyes that could bleed (i.e. denim jeans, bright-colored cotton) could temporarily stain the drum. These stains typically don’t bleed onto future loads of laundry. However, consider drying clothing with these dyes inside out to avoid bleeding onto the drum surfaces.
Cleaning the Lint Screen After Use
After each load, it’s important to clean the lint screen. This not only extends the life of the dryer, but it also ensures quick and proper drying during the next cycle. Whirlpool has two distinct lint screen variations. Below is how they recommend lint removal for each:
- Traditional screen – Pull the screen out of dryer’s holder. Use your fingers to roll the lint off the screen.
- Enclosed screen – Pull screen up and out. There is a tab located on the front. Press down on it to open the screen. Use your fingers to roll the lint off.
You should never wash either lint screen in water. This makes the lint heavy and much.
Deep Cleaning the Lint Screen Assembly Every Six Months
With consistent use, your detergent and fabric softener can create a significant buildup on the lint screen and cause clogging. This can make the machine operate longer, stop before completely drying or make clothes and linens damp at the end of a cycle. For a thorough cleaning, please do the following at least every six months:
- Step 1. Clean the lint screen using a nylon brush.
- Step 2. Use your fingers to roll lint off the screen.
- Step 3. Moisten both sides of the screen with hot water
- Step 4. Dampen the nylon brush with hot water and liquid detergent.
- Step 5. Use the wet and soapy brush to scrub the screen.
- Step 6. Rinse the screen in hot water. Then, dry the screen using a clean towel before placing it back in the dryer.
Those are a few simple ways for how to clean a Whirlpool dryer. For more info, check out our library of Whirlpool manuals.