Things You Forgot to Clean (a Simple Checklist)

Step by step

1. 1

   Dryer lint filter (every load)

   Pull out the lint screen, peel off the lint and slide it back in. The U.S. Fire Administration says to clean the lint filter before and after each cycle, and never to run the dryer without it. San Diego Fire-Rescue adds that you should also remove the lint that collects around the drum.

   What it looks like: a clean screen you can see through.

2. 2

   Dryer vent outside (check it while the dryer runs)

   While the dryer runs, step outside and look at the vent cover. The U.S. Fire Administration says the outdoor cover should open when the dryer is on. It also says to check that the vent behind the dryer is not damaged, crushed or restricted, and to clean the back of the dryer where lint builds up.

   What it looks like: the flap lifts and warm air blows out.

3. 3

   Smoke alarms (test monthly)

   Press the test button on each smoke alarm until it beeps. The U.S. Fire Administration says to test them every month, replace 9 volt and backup batteries at least once a year, and replace the whole alarm every 10 years.

   What it looks like: a loud beep from each alarm.

4. 4

   Carbon monoxide detectors (when the clocks change)

   Check the batteries in your CO detectors when you change the clocks in spring and fall, as the CDC suggests. The CDC says to keep battery or battery backup CO detectors near every sleeping area. CO has no smell and no color, so you will not notice it on your own.

5. 5

   Furnace or air conditioner filter (check monthly)

   Slide out the filter and look it over. ENERGY STAR says to inspect, clean or change it once a month, because a dirty filter can raise energy costs and damage your equipment.

   What it looks like: if it looks dirty next to a new one, swap it for a filter in the same size.

1. 6

   Dishwasher filter (monthly)

   Pull out the bottom rack and find the filter in the floor of the tub. On many Whirlpool models you turn the upper filter a quarter turn counterclockwise and lift it out, then lift the lower filter slightly and pull it forward. Rinse them under running water, and use a soft brush on any stubborn soil.

   Whirlpool says to do this about once a month, more often with heavy use. It also says not to use a wire brush or scouring pad, because they can damage the filters.

   What it looks like: the debris rinses off under the tap.

2. 7

   Washing machine (monthly)

   Run your washer’s clean cycle, or follow your manual. Whirlpool says to do this at least once a month or every 30 cycles, whichever comes first. It also says to leave the lid or door open between uses so it can dry out.

3. 8

   Under and behind the fridge

   Whirlpool says to clean under the fridge routinely, so vacuum up the dirt and crumbs that collect there. It says most homes do not need routine coil cleaning, but homes with pets, a busy kitchen or construction dust should check the coils every 3 to 6 months.

   For the coils, unplug the fridge or switch off its breaker first, then remove the base grille at the bottom and use a soft coil brush or a vacuum brush.

4. 9

   Drains you never use

   Pour about a quart of water into any drain that sits unused, like a guest bath tub or a basement floor drain. The City of Phoenix explains that the water in the curved pipe under a drain blocks sewer gas, and it can dry out when the drain is not used.

5. 10

   Shower head and range hood filter

   These two get crusty and greasy without anyone noticing. Our shower head page and range hood filter page walk through each one step by step (links below).

When it will not work, and what to do instead

• The outside vent flap does not open, or the vent is crushed. The U.S. Fire Administration recommends having your dryer installed and serviced by a professional.
• A smoke alarm will not beep. Follow the maker’s instructions for it, as the U.S. Fire Administration advises, and replace any alarm that is 10 years old.
• The washer still smells after a clean cycle. Use less detergent. Whirlpool says too much detergent builds up residue that can smell.

Why it works

Most of these spots are filters and traps. Their whole job is to catch lint, dust, grease and food so it does not end up somewhere worse. A filter that is full stops catching and starts blocking.

Think of a coffee filter. It works fine for one pot, but if you never changed it, the water would back up and spill over.

That is why the U.S. Fire Administration says skipping the lint filter and dryer vent cleaning raises your risk of a dryer fire.

The alarms are different. They do not get dirty, they just quietly stop working, and the only way to know is to press the button.