Better Living > Safety > HomeJune 14, 2007

Wash Out Lint Trap To Prevent Fires

Many people don't know it but using dryer sheets, especially Bounce, can actually start dryer fires. To prevent this every couple weeks, remove your dryer lint trap and wash it with dish soap and warm water and then let it dry. This is recommenced by firefighters.

By Mythi from Silverdale WA

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By (Guest Post) 06/15/2007

Yes, I agree with Susan...there was a time when none of these items existed and we did just fine. I deemed this item a health hazard a long time ago and have not used dryer sheets/fabric softeners in many, many years. Not only as a preventative health measure, but also regarding all of the money I have saved over the years! I was aware, however, about the fire hazard of an unclean lint filter. You can take that safety precaution a step further and vacuum the exhast hose from time to time, as it can get clogged with lint that gets through the filter. Just my 2 cents!

By
06/15/2007

I guess I'm giving my age away, but I remember when these things were't even thought about, and we all got along fine (and so did our laundry). Yes, they make the clothes smell nice, but the inhibit absorbency in articles like towels. The only time I use anything like this is when I'm trying to prevent static cling, and then I use very little. Fabric softeners and dryer sheets have been known to cause allergies, lung irritations, and asthma in addition to fires. And people who have these very problems continue to use them, making their conditions worse. Thanks for the warning. I hope it saves at least one family from a possible fire.

By Janelle (Guest Post) 06/14/2007

http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/ ... d-myths-of-dryer-fires-306/index.htm

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