Originally Posted by Maribeth
I know it traps the lint, but why?? I was just wondering because I put a load of towels in the dryer and then hit the start button. Then I remembered I hadn't cleaned the lint trap so I pulled it out while the machine was running. While I was dumping the trap into the wastebasket, I just happened to look out the window next to the dryer vent and the lint was flying into the backyard. Sooo, why not just let the lint fly into the backyard? Is it dangerous in some way? While l await an answer, I put the trap back into the dryer and checked the window. No more lint flying into the yard, but I still would like to know if there is any reason. I thought it had something to do with fire prevention, any ideas?
Well, for one thing that lint can get trapped in the tube going outside and cause a fire. I wouldn't want that lint flying around outside and then getting back inside my house, not too good to breathe those tiny particles. I always clean the lint out as soon as I have the clothes out of the dryer. And I always check it before I put another load in. You should really check down in where the lint filter is on your dryer to make sure none is trapped in there. I have a special brush to clean that out; don't want any fires here.