When my grandmother first showed me her way of cleaning a clogged dryer vent, I wasn’t convinced it would work. She didn’t use expensive gadgets or professional services—just simple household tools and practical wisdom. With a knowing smile, she said, “This trick saves money, keeps the dryer running smoothly, and makes the home safer.” I gave it a try, and she was absolutely right.

A clean dryer vent is more important than many people realize. Lint buildup doesn’t just affect performance—it also creates a fire hazard. Clogs can waste energy, reduce the life of the dryer, and leave laundry damp after a cycle. For anyone, but especially for older adults, this simple routine offers peace of mind while keeping household costs down.

Her approach requires only three items: a vacuum with a hose attachment, a flexible vent brush, and a leaf blower. First, unplug the dryer and carefully pull it away from the wall. Use the vacuum to remove lint at the opening, run the brush through to loosen debris, vacuum again, and then step outside to blow out the rest with the leaf blower. Once everything is reassembled, running a quick test cycle shows immediate improvement.

This combination of suction, brushing, and airflow clears hidden lint without the need for complex disassembly. Done once or twice a year, the method helps prevent risks, lowers energy bills, and extends the life of the appliance. What seemed like an old-fashioned tip turned out to be a smart and effective habit worth keeping.