Two likely causes are mold or mildew growth and a clogged vent or foreign object near the heating element. A clogged vent or an object near the heating element can create a smell akin to rotting, as it obstructs airflow and causes heat to build up.
In some cases, the smell might indeed be due to something that has died in the dryer. Small animals, such as rodents or birds, can sometimes enter the dryer vent and become trapped, leading to a decaying smell. This is particularly likely if your home has accessible vents or crawl spaces that animals can use as entry points.
Also, dryer vents made of materials like PVC, instead of more secure metal, increase the risk of such occurrences.
Musty odors often originate from mildew, especially when wet or sweaty clothes are left in the dryer for extended periods. This promotes fungus growth, which emits a distinctive musty smell.
If a dead animal is the cause, removing it is the only immediate solution to eliminate the odor. Over time, the smell may fade, but the presence of a decomposing animal can also attract other pests, creating a more significant issue.
Sometimes, the smell might be confused with other problems, such as gas leaks in gas dryers, which are dangerous and require urgent attention. Regular maintenance and cleaning of your dryer and its vents can often resolve these odor issues, ensuring the appliance functions safely and efficiently.
Dryer odors resembling that of a dead animal can be alarming and are often indicative of underlying issues that need attention. Here are seven common reasons for such smells and their respective solutions.
Dryer Smells Like Dead Animal! Causes and Solutions
1. Actual Presence of a Dead Animal
Small animals like mice or birds sometimes crawl into dryer vents and unfortunately die, leading to a decomposing odor. To fix this, first, turn off and unplug the dryer. Carefully inspect the dryer vent and ductwork for any signs of animal entry.
Remove any dead animals found and thoroughly clean the area. To prevent future occurrences, secure vents with appropriate covers or meshes that deter animal entry.
2. Mold and Mildew Accumulation
Mold and mildew thrive in moist environments and can produce a foul smell similar to that of decay. This usually occurs when damp laundry is left in the dryer for too long or when there’s excess moisture in the vent system.
Address this by cleaning the interior of the dryer with a mildew-specific cleaner and running a high-heat cycle to dry out the drum.
Regularly clean the lint filter and ensure the external vent flap opens properly to prevent moisture buildup.
3. Clogged Dryer Vents
A clogged vent can trap moisture, lint, and debris, leading to musty odors. Inspect and clean your dryer vent ductwork at least once a year.
Use a vent cleaning brush or hire a professional to remove lint and obstructions. This not only eliminates odors but also reduces the risk of fire hazards.
4. Overheating Due to Mechanical Issues
Overheating can cause parts of the dryer, like rubber belts or electrical wiring, to emit a burning smell. Check for signs of wear and tear on the belts and replace them if necessary.
If the smell persists, consult a professional to inspect the motor and electrical components for potential issues.
5. Residual Chemicals or Substances on Clothes
Sometimes, the clothes themselves are the source of the odor. Residual chemicals, oils, or other substances on fabrics can emit a foul smell when heated. Run an empty cycle with a cleaner designed to remove buildup and odors.
In the future, check clothing for substances that might cause odors before drying.
6. Lint Buildup in the Dryer
Excessive lint accumulation, especially around the heating element, can create a smell similar to burning or decay. Regularly clean the lint trap and the area around it.
For a more thorough cleaning, remove the back panel of the dryer and vacuum around the heating element and internal components.
7. Gas Leak in Gas Dryers
A gas leak in a gas dryer can emit a smell often confused with rotting organic matter. This is a serious issue that requires immediate attention.
If you suspect a gas leak, turn off the dryer and contact a professional technician to inspect and repair the appliance.
Ensure proper ventilation in the laundry area and install a carbon monoxide detector for added safety.
Is Something Died Smell from Dryer Dangerous?
The unsettling smell from a dryer that resembles something dead can be a cause for concern. While the odor itself is not directly harmful, it often indicates underlying issues that may pose various risks.
For example, if the smell is due to a deceased animal in the dryer vent, this can lead to unsanitary conditions and potential health hazards from bacteria and parasites. Moreover, the carcass can obstruct airflow, increasing the risk of fire due to overheating. If the smell is due to mold or mildew, prolonged exposure can lead to respiratory issues, especially in individuals with allergies or asthma.
In cases where the smell is due to a gas leak in gas dryers, it is dangerous and requires immediate action, as it can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning or explosions.
Read More: Can You Dry Darks And Lights Together?
Why Does My Dryer Smell Like Mildew?
A mildew smell from your dryer typically indicates the presence of fungus, which thrives in moist environments. This can happen when wet or damp laundry is left in the dryer for extended periods, creating an ideal breeding ground for mildew.
Gradually, the fungus grows and emits a musty odor. Another contributing factor can be a clogged vent. This impedes proper air circulation, trapping moisture inside the dryer.
To remedy this issue, start by cleaning the lint trap and dryer drum using a vinegar solution, which kills mildew without damaging the appliance. Ensure the dryer is completely dry after each use and avoid leaving damp clothes in it.
Inspect and clean the dryer vent regularly to ensure it’s not obstructed, promoting better airflow and reducing moisture accumulation.
In chronic cases, a professional cleaning service may be necessary to remove extensive mildew buildup within the machine and ductwork.
Learn More: Is a Gas Dryer the Right Choice?
5 Common Dryer Smells: Causes and Fixes
1. Smells like Burnt Rubber
This smell often arises from the dryer belt slipping or wearing out. Over time, the belt can become brittle and lose its grip on the drum, leading to friction and a burning rubber smell. To fix this, inspect the belt for signs of wear and replace it if necessary. Regular maintenance checks can prevent this issue from recurring.
2. Smells like Mildew
Mildew smells are typically due to damp clothes left in the dryer or poor ventilation. Combat this by regularly cleaning the lint trap and ensuring the vent is clear of obstructions. Use a vinegar solution to clean the drum and run a cycle with high heat to eliminate any remaining mildew.
3. Smells like Something’s Burning
A burning smell might indicate lint buildup or an electrical issue. First, clean the lint trap and the vent system. If the smell persists, it could be an electrical fault, and you should consult a professional. Regular cleaning and servicing can help avoid these problems.
4. Smells Like Gas
In gas dryers, a gas smell could signal a leak, which is a serious safety concern. If you notice this smell, turn off the dryer immediately and call a technician for inspection and repair. Regular checks on gas connections can help prevent such issues.
5. Smells like a Dead Animal
If your dryer emits a smell like a dead animal, it could be due to small creatures getting trapped in the vent or ductwork. Remove the obstruction and thoroughly clean the area. Prevent future occurrences by securing external vents and conducting regular inspections.
