When my grandmother first showed me her simple method for cleaning a clogged dryer vent, I didn’t believe it could be effective. No pricey tools or professional services—just a vacuum, a vent brush, and her old leaf blower. She told me, with her familiar confident smile, that this routine kept the dryer running well, cut down costs, and protected the house from fire hazards.

Most people don’t realize how dangerous a clogged dryer vent can be. The U.S. Fire Administration reports nearly 2,900 house fires each year caused by dryers, with uncleaned vents being the top reason. Lint buildup also makes a dryer less efficient, raises energy bills, and wears out the machine faster. When Grandma said this was essential home care, I paid attention.

She began with safety. First, unplug the dryer and turn off the gas if needed. Then pull the machine just far enough from the wall to reach the vent. With the back exposed, she used a vacuum hose to remove all visible lint from the vent opening and surrounding floor space.

Next came the long, flexible dryer vent brush. She fed it gently through the duct, twisting to loosen anything clinging to the inside walls. After brushing, she vacuumed again to collect the loosened debris. Even regular lint-trap cleaning can’t prevent the buildup deep inside the duct.

Then came her signature trick: the leaf blower. At the exterior vent, she removed the cover and inserted the blower nozzle. A few strong bursts sent clouds of lint shooting out, proving just how much had been hiding inside. It was messy—but incredibly effective.

Once everything was reassembled, we ran a short cycle. The dryer worked faster, smelled cleaner, and felt cooler. The results were immediate and surprising.

Grandma repeated this ritual twice a year—spring and before winter—and now it’s a habit I follow too. Her method is simple, economical, and one of the most practical lessons she ever passed down.