National Lint Awareness Day occurs every year on July 2, highlighting the importance of doing the simple task of cleaning lint from your dryer. This day is dedicated to creating awareness of the possible fire hazard lint presents as well general maintenance. THis holiday acts as a useful reminder to get cleaning, for your own peace of mind.
National Lint Awareness Day timeline
M Pochon, a Frenchman, is believed to have created the first mechanical dryer, which consisted of a perforated drum suspended over a fire.
Henry Altorfer was granted a patent for an electronic clothes dryer in 1937 and J. Ross Moore was granted one for a clothes dryer in 1938, it was sold as the June Day.
Bendix Home Appliances released the first combo washer-dryer machine.
Today, dryers are more energy efficient and can even be controlled from your smartphone.
National Lint Awareness Day FAQs
How often should I clean my dryer's lint trap?
If you can, you should clean it after every load. A full lint trap slows drying time. If you can’t remember to do it after every load, aim for at least every three months.
Is dryer lint harmful?
Yes, if left to accumulate dryer lint can pose a huge fire hazard. It also contributes to indoor air pollution and can damage your dryer.
What happens if you don't clean dryer lint?
The lint builds up and slows your dryer which uses more energy and may damage your dryer. It also creates a fire hazard as lint is highly flammable.
National Lint Awareness Day Activities
Clean your dryer lint trap
Clean out all the accumulated lint from your dryer. Then remove the trap and clean the filter, there may be a build up of detergent, softener, and fibers. Check that the filter on your lint trap is not torn or worn, if it is you need to replace it.
Inspect your dryer vent
Check the exterior vent for your dryer to ensure it is not blocked with leaves, birds nests, or even lint. Blocked vents impeded the dryer's airflow. Check all the connections too for any lint or residue build up.
Educate family and roommates on safety
It's important that everyone understands the fire hazard that lint build up poses. Teach those you live with how to check the lint trap and clean the lint out. It may help to set up a maintenance schedule.
5 Facts About Dryers
Lint is a common cause of fires
The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) estimates that about 3,000 fires are caused by dryers every year.
Wool dryer balls are energy savers
Dryer balls reduce drying time thereby saving energy.
Ventless dryers are a modern option
Dryers that don't require vents are good options for small spaces like apartments.
Not all textiles are dryer friendly
Be careful what you put in your dryer — rubber, foam, and certain plastics can melt or catch fire in a dryer.
Dryer lint is highly flammable
Lint can catch fire very easily, but makes a great fire starter for campfires or barbecues.
Why We Love National Lint Awareness Day
It creates awareness about home safety
National Lint Awareness Day highlights a leading cause of house fires and shares crucial knowledge with homeowners. Simple maintenance can literally save lives and prevent losses. By encouraging regular lint clean up, the holiday creates lasting habits that improve home safety.
Encourages small actions that save money
Cleaning the lint from your dryer filter helps your machine run more efficiently. It reduces drying time which means you use less electricity and water, which can lower your utility bills. It also means you keep your machine in a good condition, preventing costly repairs or replacement in the future.
Makes you more energy friendly
Improving your dryers efficiency means you use less resources which is always a win. We should all strive to be as environmentally conscious and energy efficient as we can.
National Lint Awareness Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | July 2 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | July 2 | Thursday |
| 2027 | July 2 | Friday |
| 2028 | July 2 | Sunday |
| 2029 | July 2 | Monday |
