Uses and maintenance for dryer lint

Dryer lint can be repurposed for various household uses or managed through regular maintenance to improve appliance efficiency. Natural fiber lint, such as cotton or linen, is suitable for composting or acting as a weed suppressant in garden patches. Synthetic lint is better suited for crafts, packing, or creating fire starters. For fire starters, lint can be packed into paper towel tubes or melted wax in paper egg cartons.

To maintain dryer efficiency and prevent buildup, the lint trap screen should be cleaned after every load. Over time, residue from dryer sheets or fabric softeners can coat the mesh and restrict airflow. A deeper cleaning, including vacuuming the lint trap slot and cleaning the vent, is recommended at least once a year to ensure proper airflow and reduce drying times.