dryer sheet screen question

[PrincessPerky]

I got an email about dryer sheets leaving a film on the lint trap so it doesn't let air flow right anymore. The 'proof' was running the screen under wter, apparently it doesn't let water thru with the film. The solution was to wash it with a toothbrush and soap.

It is only 9pm but my pregnant self is to tired to go try it but I will, later.

Anyone already try this? Seems like it would save money to have the lint trap work better.

[34saving]

Hmmm . . .as somebody who spent a good chunk of the morning cleaning the "escaped" dryer lint out of the outside air conditioning condenser, wouldn't a sticky filter catch more lint? Anyway, I just did the water test. Water went through mine just fine if it was under the sink. If I put a drop of water on it with my finger it didn't fall through, but I think that has more to do with little tiny holes and surface tension then a film . . .but what do I know I just thought you pregnant self might like to know the results of my tiny experiment.

[PrincessPerky]

Thanks

[cicy33]

I would like to find an alternative to the dryer sheet? I hate spending the money. and I can't remember to add the liquid to the washer. I thought maybe if I spritzed a washcloth with febreze or something?

[Roger]

I've heard about water and the dryer sheet before, but I honestly believe water is different than air and doesn't reflect the machines ability to dry your air. The lint and junk in the vent tube is more likely to restrict air flow and cause your machine to have to work harder to dry your clothes.
Febreze on a washcloth will not do the same thing as a dryer sheet. The purpose of sheet is to help with the anti-static factor.
Roger

[sarah4554]

I wash down my lint trap every couple months. I don't know if it really effects the your dryer but it can't hurt to just wash it every couple months. I also cut all my dryer sheets in half before I use them. You don't really need a whole dryer sheet, a half of one just works as well. They last twice as long and work just as well.

[cercis]

I don't use dryer sheets, DH hates the "slick" feel they leave on clothes. We just live with static, but our climate is just humid enough that static isn't an issue.

I've heard that a ball of aluminum foil will cut down the static. Also, a downy ball with vinegar.

[PrincessPerky]

I use a downy ball with vinegar in the washer, and then line dry, no static

But when I do use the dryer (like when DH forgets to tell me he is out of socks at 7pm instead of AM) I use half a sheet. works just as well as the whole one. DH cuts them up in advance for me.

[akaivyleaf]

I have heard, but haven't tried this solution. Take a sponge and soak it in Downy or something comparible.... Wring it out well and throw it in the dryer. The next time, moisten the sponge and throw it in with your next load. Its good for about 4 times, before you have to start the process over again with the Downy.

[cercis]

BTW, never use fabric softener on towels, it cuts their absorbancy. It coats the fibers and keeps them from absorbing water. I wouldn't do it for napkins either (but then I don't do it for anything).

[Bluezy]

Vinegar works marvelously in the Downey Ball! I tried it this morning THose DOwney balls are wonderful.

When I have the time I will work on the lint trap screen and see what it does.

[shelbylovesmelby]

I hardly use my dryer, my dh says he can't figure out why we own one *LOL* It's called WINTER that's the only time I use it & sparingly @ that.

Interesting, I think I heard about the screen thing before. But I don't usually use dryer sheets.

Though on a side note w/ using Downy, I washed my curtains w/ a lil extra Downy & my house smelled like Downy for a week alot longer than the smell of Febreez lasts (could also put watered down Downy in spray bottle instead as well )

[crabbypatty]

The lint trap thing is true, water sits on top when enough of a film has built up. I'm not usre exactly how it affects efficiency but just in case I scrub it every few months.

I have tried spraying fabric softener on a towel and running it through the dryer instead of the sheets and it doesn't work the same for me. It also stained the inside of my dryer blue.