Dryer damaging clothes: Common Causes & Solutions (2024)

Most Common Solution

Dryer Drum Support Bearing

Repair Instructions:

Some dryers have a drum support bearing in the back. This bearing holds up the rear of the drum and lets it spin smoothly. If the bearing gets loose or breaks, the drum can move out of alignment. Clothes can get stuck and damaged between the drum edge and the front panel. To check the bearing, you'll need to take apart the dryer and remove the drum. Look closely at the bearing to see if it is worn out or broken. If it is damaged, the bearing will need to be replaced. Putting in a new support bearing will hold the drum in proper alignment. This prevents clothes from getting trapped and ripped.

How to Replace Dryer Drum Support Bearing

1. Unplug dryer and disconnect power- Unplug the dryer from the electrical outlet and shut off gas supply if gas dryer.

2. Remove front panel- Remove screws or clips to detach the dryer's front access panel and set it aside.
3. Detach belt- Remove the belt from the dryer drum and motor pulleys.
4. Remove drum- Carefully slide out the drum and remove it from the dryer.
5. Extract old bearing- Use a bearing removal tool to extract the old worn bearing from the drum shaft.
6. Install new bearing- Carefully press or tap the new bearing into place on the drum shaft using an insertion tool.
7. Replace drum- Slide the drum back into the dryer and thread the belt around the pulleys.
8. Reattach front panel- Securely reattach the dryer's front access panel with screws or clips.
9. Restore power- Plug dryer back in and restore gas supply if gas model. Test run the dryer.

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Most Common Solution

Dryer Drum Assembly

Repair Instructions:

When the drum spins around, damaged spots inside it could be ripping or poking holes in clothes. Use a flashlight to look closely at the drum's inner surface. Also run a cloth over it to feel if it catches anywhere. If you find any cracks or damage in the drum, that's likely causing the tears. The drum assembly should be replaced if it has any cracks or rough spots that snag. Putting in a new undamaged drum will remove any sharp or broken areas. Clothes will no longer get caught or torn during the drying cycle once the damaged drum is replaced.

How to Replace Dryer Drum Assembly

1. Unplug the dryer and disconnect the exhaust vent.Make sure the power is completely disconnected before servicing.

2. Remove the front panel.There are usually screws along the top or sides that need to be taken out. Once unscrewed, lift off the panel.
3. Detach the belt.Locate the idler pulley and move it to release tension on the belt. Then slip the belt off of the motor pulley.
4. Take out the old drum.Carefully slide it out, making sure not to scratch the interior.
5. Transfer parts over.Use a screwdriver to remove the blower housing, heating element, thermostats, etc. and transfer them onto the new drum assembly.
6. Install the new drum.Carefully slide the new drum into place, aligning the rollers with the slots.
7. Reattach the belt.Loop the belt back over the motor pulley and idler pulley. Check that tension is correct.
8. Reattach front panelwith the screws.
9. Plug dryer back in.
10. Run a test cycleto verify the drum is rotating smoothly and heating properly. Listen for any rattling or scraping noises.

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Most Common Solution

Dryer Drum Slide Glide or Pad

Repair Instructions:

The drum glides (also called slides) may be worn out. These are small plastic pieces that hold up the front of the drum. When the drum spins, it slides along on these plastic glides. After a lot of use, the glides can wear down. If the glides are worn, the dryer will often make loud noises. The drum can also drop lower, leaving a wider gap at the bottom. Clothes can get caught in this gap and damaged. To check the glides, inspect them closely for wear and tear. If one or more glides are worn, replace the whole set. Putting in new glides will stop the noise and keep the drum supported properly. This prevents clothes from getting trapped in a gap.

How to Replace Dryer Drum Slide Glide or Pad

1. Unplug the dryer and disconnect the exhaust vent.Make sure the dryer is completely powered off before servicing.

2. Remove the front panel.There are usually a few screws along the top or side that need to be removed. Once unscrewed, the front panel should lift off.
3. Take out the drum.Carefully slide the drum out, being careful not to damage the belt. You may need to detach the belt from the motor first.
4. Locate the worn glide or pad.Examine the glides/pads on the side of the drum and identify the worn one.
5. Remove the old glide/pad.There is usually a retaining clip or screws. Remove the clip or screws and the old pad should detach.
6. Install the new glide/pad.Line it up in the same spot and reattach the retaining clip or screws.
7. Replace the drum.Slide the drum back into position and reattach the belt if needed. Spin it by hand to ensure it moves smoothly.
8. Reattach the front paneland any screws.
9. Plug the dryer back in and test.Run a test cycle to verify the drum is rotating properly with the new glide/pad.

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Common Solution

Dryer Air Duct

Repair Instructions:

A dryer's air duct, which sends out hot air, can harm your clothes when it's not working properly. Here's why: First, when the duct is blocked, it can't remove all the moisture from your clothes, making them smell bad or even grow mold. Second, a blocked duct can make the dryer too hot, which can fade colors, shrink clothes, or wear them out faster. Third, it takes longer to dry your clothes when the duct is blocked, and the extra time can cause your clothes to rub together, creating fuzz or pilling. Moreover, a blocked duct is a fire risk because lint can build up in it, potentially ruining your clothes and creating a dangerous situation. Lastly, a bad duct also makes your dryer use more electricity, which costs more money and harms the environment. So, keeping your duct clean and working well is essential to protect your clothes and save on your bills.

How to Replace Dryer Air Duct

1. Unplug the dryer from the power source.Make sure the dryer is completely powered off.

2. Disconnect the ducting from the dryer exhaust vent.Remove the clamp and ducting pipe.
3. Examine the existing duct work and make note of how it is positioned. Remove any debris buildup.
4. Measure the length and diameter of the old duct to cut a replacement to match. Use metal duct, not plastic.
5. Connect one end of the new duct to the dryer exhaust vent using a clamp. Make sure it is tight.
6. Run the new duct to align with the existing duct work set up. Use clamps to secure.
7. Seal all duct joints and connectionswith aluminum duct tape to make them air tight.
8. Check for any kinks or tight bendsin the duct that may restrict airflow.
9. Reconnect the ducting to the exterior vent hood and make sure the damper flap moves freely.
10. Plug in the dryer, turn it on, andtest airflowat the vent hood before drying laundry.

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Common Solution

Dryer Drum Roller Axle

Repair Instructions:

One or more of the drum roller axles may be worn out. Most dryers have two drum rollers in the back, and some also have two rollers in front. These rollers hold up the drum. Over time, the drum rollers and axles can wear out. This causes loud rumbling noises. It also makes the drum drop lower, leaving a wide gap at the bottom where clothes can get caught. To check the axles, take off the dryer belt. Then try spinning the drum by hand. If the drum doesn't turn easily, the rollers likely need replacing. Check if the rollers wobble or don't spin smoothly. If so, you should replace all the axles and rollers as prevention. New rollers and axles will stop the loud noise. They'll also keep the drum supported properly so clothes don't get damaged.

How to Replace (Dryer Drum Roller Axle)

1. Unplug the dryer from the power source.Make sure the dryer is completely powered off before attempting this repair.

2. Open the dryer doorand remove the lint screen and filter cover (if applicable) to access the drum.
3. Locate the roller axleon the back side of the drum. It will have wheels on each end that allow the drum to turn.
4. On each side, remove the retaining clip that secures the roller to the axle. You may need pliers to unclip them.
5. Slide the roller wheels off the worn axle.You may need to wiggle them side to side to get them loose.
6. Vacuum around the axleto remove any dust, lint or debris. Make sure the axle channel is clean.
7. Slide the new replacement axle into position, aligning the wheels on each side.
8. Reattach the retaining clipson both sides to secure the new axle in place. Make sure they click into place.
9. Check that the drum turns freelyby rotating it manually. The axle wheels should spin smoothly.
10. Reattach the lint filter and close the dryer door.Plug in the dryerand test it empty before drying laundry.

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Common Solution

Dryer Drum Baffle

Repair Instructions:

The drum baffle is a panel that keeps clothes tumbling during drying. If the baffle gets loose or falls off, clothes can get caught and rip. Check that the baffles are still tight against the drum. If you see any loose baffles, try tightening them. But if the baffles have cracks or broken pieces, they'll need replacing. Putting in new undamaged baffles removes any gaps or sharp edges inside the drum. This prevents clothes from snagging during the cycle. Checking the baffles and replacing any broken ones is an easy fix to stop clothes from tearing.

How to Replace Dryer Drum Baffle

1. Unplug the dryer from the power source.Make sure the dryer is completely powered off.

2. Open the dryer doorand remove the lint screen to access the drum.
3. Locate the baffle inside the dryer drum. It is a v-shaped piece opposite the opening.
4. Remove the retaining screws that secure the baffle using a Phillips head screwdriver.
5. Carefully lift the old baffle out of the drum.Be mindful of any sharp edges.
6. Vacuum out any debrisfrom inside the dryer drum. Make sure the surface is clean.
7. Position the new baffle in place aligning the screw holes.
8. Reinstall the retaining screwsto secure the baffle. Do not overtighten.
9. Check that the drum rotates freelyby turning it manually.
10. Reattach the lint screen and close the dryer door.Plug in the dryerand test it empty before drying laundry.

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Common Solution

Dryer Filter Cover

Repair Instructions:

The filter cover is what keeps the lint filter secured inside the dryer. If the filter cover gets broken or damaged, clothes can snag on it and tear. Check out the filter cover closely. Look for any cracks or pieces that are broken off. If you see damage to the filter cover, it will need to be replaced. Putting in a new, undamaged filter cover will remove any sharp or jagged edges inside the dryer. This prevents clothes from getting caught and ripped during the cycle. Replacing a cracked filter cover is an easy fix to stop clothes from tearing.

How to Replace Dryer Filter Cover

1. Unplug the dryer from the power source.Make sure the dryer is completely powered off before attempting any repairs.

2. Open the dryer doorand locate the filter cover on the inside of the door opening. It is usually at the bottom of the opening.
3. Remove any lint or debris from around the filter cover. Use a vacuum to clean this area if needed.
4. Locate the retaining screwsor clamps that hold the filter cover in place. There are usually two screws along the bottom or side edges.
5. Using a Phillips head screwdriver,remove the retaining screws.Be careful not to drop the screws into the dryer.
6. Gently pry off the old filter cover.You may need to apply slight pressure with a flat head screwdriver to pop it off.
7. Inspect the dryer vent openingbehind the cover for any lint buildup. Use a vacuum to clean out any debris.
8. Position the new replacement coverover the opening and align the screw holes.
9. Reinstall the retaining screwsto secure the new cover in place. Do not overtighten.
10. Plug the dryer back inand test it to ensure proper airflow before running laundry.

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Common Solution

Dryer Drum Roller

Repair Instructions:

One or more of the drum rollers may be worn out. Most dryers have two rollers in the back holding up the drum, and some have two more rollers in front. When the rollers get worn down over time, they can cause loud rumbling noises. Badly worn rollers also let the drum drop lower, leaving a wide gap at the bottom where clothes can get caught. To check the rollers, inspect them closely. If you see severe wear on one or more rollers, it's best to replace the whole set as prevention. The roller shaft can often be reused if it looks okay. Just be sure to clean the shaft well before putting on the new rollers. Replacing worn out rollers will stop the loud noises. It will also keep the drum supported properly so clothes don't get damaged.

How to Replace Dryer Drum Roller

1. Unplug the dryer from the power source.Make sure the dryer is completely powered off before attempting this repair.

2. Open the dryer doorand remove the lint screen and filter cover (if applicable) to access the drum.
3. Locate the rolleryou need to replace on the back side of the drum. It will be mounted on a wheel and axle.
4. On each side, remove the retaining clip that secures the roller to the axle using pliers.
5. Wiggle the roller wheel side to sideto loosen it andslide it off the axle.You may need to move the drum.
6. Vacuum around the axleto remove any dust, lint or debris. Make sure the axle is clean.
7. Slide the new replacement roller wheel onto the axle, aligning the clip grooves.
8. Reattach the retaining clipson both sides to secure the new roller in place. Make sure they click into place.
9. Check that the drum rotates freelyby turning it manually. The roller should spin smoothly.
10. Reattach the lint filter and close the dryer door.Plug in the dryerand test it empty before drying laundry.

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Common Solution

Dryer Felt Seal

Repair Instructions:

Felt seals stop hot air from leaking out around the drum. Some dryers have one felt seal in front, while others have one in front and one in back too. If the seals get torn or are missing, clothes can get caught between the drum and the outer housing. This outer part is often called the shroud. To check the seals, open the door and look at them closely. See if there are any rips or missing pieces. Damaged or missing felt seals should be replaced. Putting in new seals will plug up any gaps around the drum. This prevents clothes from getting trapped between the hot drum and shroud during drying. Checking the seals and replacing them if needed is an easy fix.

How to Replace Dryer Felt Seal

1. Unplug the dryer from the power source.Make sure the dryer is completely powered off.

2. Open the dryer doorand remove the lint screen to access the drum.
3. Locate the felt seal on the inside edge of the drum opening. This seals the gap between the drum and front panel.
4. Use a putty knife to gently pry up the old felt seal, being careful not to scratch the drum surface.
5. Remove any adhesive residueleft behind with adhesive remover or gum cutter solvent.
6. Wipe the surface clean and allow it to fully dry before applying new felt seal.
7. Apply a thin bead of high-temperature sealantalong the lip where the new felt seal will be placed.
8. Press the new felt seal into placealong the drum opening, smoothing down the adhesive to secure it.
9. Allow the adhesive to fully cure for at least 2-4 hours before using the dryer.
10. Reattach the lint screenand close the dryer door. Plug in the dryer andtest it emptyto ensure a proper seal before drying laundry.

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Dryer Drum Support Roller & Axle

Repair Instructions:

Most dryers have two drum rollers in the back holding up the drum. Some also have two rollers in front. The rollers need to spin smoothly to work right. Over time, the roller axles can wear out. This makes the rollers wobble side to side. It also lets the drum drop lower, leaving a wide gap at the bottom where clothes can be caught. To check the rollers, first take off the dryer belt. Then try turning the drum by hand. If it doesn't spin easily, the rollers likely need replacing. Check if the rollers are wobbly or stiff when spun. If any rollers aren't moving freely, it's best to replace all the axles and rollers as prevention. New rollers and axles will stop wobble and noise. They'll keep the drum supported properly so clothes don't get damaged.

How to Replace Dryer Drum Support Roller & Axle

1. Unplug the dryer from the power source.Make sure the dryer is completely powered off.

2. Open the dryer doorand remove the lint screen to access the drum.
3. Locate the support roller you need to replace under the rear of the drum.
4. Remove the retaining clip from the roller's axle using pliers.
5. Slide the roller off the worn axle.You may need to wiggle it side to side.
6. Vacuum around the axleto remove any dust, lint or debris.
7. Slide the new support roller onto the new axle, aligning the clip grooves.
8. Reattach the retaining clipto secure the support roller in place. Make sure it clicks into place.
9. Check that the drum rotates freelyby turning it manually.
10. Reattach the lint screen and close the dryer door.Plug in the dryerand test it empty before drying laundry.

Object stuck inside drum area

Repair Instructions:

Sharp things like screws, nails, or other objects could be stuck in the drum seal or air intake grill. These can snag and rip clothes during drying. Use a flashlight to look closely inside the drum. Also, rub a cloth around the drum interior to feel if it catches anywhere. Remove any objects you find. If the inlet grill or other inner parts are damaged, those parts will need replacing. Putting in new undamaged parts gets rid of any sharp or broken areas inside. This prevents clothes from getting torn during the cycle. Checking thoroughly and replacing any damaged pieces is an easy fix to stop clothes from ripping.

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