Test your dryer filter by clearing it of lint, then pouring a small amount of water onto the filter screen. If the water ...

“The smooth walls allow the air to flow ... that’s a clue that there may be a blockage in the dryer vent system. When you’re drying a load, go outside and look at the vent.

While this may feel daunting, we found a highly-rated, 33-piece dryer vent cleaning kit — that reviewers say is actually easy to use — on sale for under $30. Complete with a 33-foot dryer vent brush, ...