5 reasons your dryer isn’t drying

When your dryer cycle is finished, you expect your clothes to be fluffy, dry, and ready to fold. If they’re still wet after a full cycle, it will definitely put a damper on your day. Wondering why your dryer’s not drying? Asurion Experts explain and help you troubleshoot. 

Why isn’t my dryer drying? 

There are several reasons why your dryer may not be drying your clothes. Here are a few of the most common culprits along with possible fixes.

Overloaded drum

If your dryer isn’t drying, the first thing to check is your laundry load. If you pack too many wet clothes inside the dryer, it weighs down the load and limits the airflow needed to dry your clothes properly. Our experts recommend keeping the load to three-quarters full or less and limiting the number of heavy items, like towels, for the best results.  

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Clogged lint filter

Do you clean your lint filter after every cycle? It’s important to do so to prevent potential fires —dust, lint, and other debris could build up in the filter and catch fire. Plus, lint in your trap can increase your drying time. Your dryer will dry your clothes more quickly and thoroughly if you pull the lint from the screen regularly. 

Blocked vent

If your dryer isn't drying your clothes completely or is taking longer than usual to complete a drying cycle, you may need to clean your dryer vent. You should clean your dryer vent at least once a year, but twice is better. Check out our guide on how to clean your dryer vent safely. 

Heating element issues

Over time, your dryer’s heating elements can break down or shift, which could be the cause of too-wet laundry. You can inspect the coils of the heating element (check your owner’s manual to find it) to confirm they aren’t out of place. If you suspect there’s an issue with the heating element, you may need to book a repair with an appliance pro. 

Thermostat or sensor malfunctions

The cycling thermostat adjusts the temperature and time that the dryer runs by sensing the dampness of your laundry. If the thermostat or sensor isn’t working correctly, your cycle may be cut short and your clothes may not dry completely. Need help testing your cycling thermostat? Call a repair professional for help. 

Thinking of fixing your broken appliance yourself? Read about when DIY appliance repair is a bad idea.