Doing laundry may seem like a simple everyday task, but maintaining your laundry appliances can help prevent damage to your home. According to the National Fire Protection Association, the leading cause of fires starting due to laundry appliances is failure to clean them. In the case of a clothes dryer, proper cleaning and maintenance can prevent a house fire.

Below are some tips to keep your dryer clean and safe:

  • Clean the lint trap before or after every use.
  • Do not use a dryer without a lint trap.
  • Make sure the outdoor vent flap is not blocked or clogged.
  • When getting a new dryer, have a professional install and service it.
  • Keep the area around the dryer clear of items that may burn.
  • Do not overload your dryer.
  • Make sure you are using the correct plug and outlet type for your dryer.

Using a converter or other types of accessories may increase the risk of an electrical fire.