Samsung Dryer: musty smell, longer drying time

Possible Causes

Lint buildup in lint trap and internal housing

How to Identify: Visible lint on lint screen, reduced airflow, clothes still damp at cycle end

Part: Lint filter and lint trap housing

Moisture buildup from leaving wet clothes inside too long

How to Identify: Musty smell only when wet clothes were left sitting before drying

Part: Drum interior

Poor laundry room ventilation/high humidity

How to Identify: Humidity in room, condensation on walls or dryer, musty odors persist even after cleaning lint and vent

Part: Laundry environment

Mold or mildew growth inside dryer components

How to Identify: Persistent mildew smell after cleaning lint and vent, visible residue in drum crevices

Part: Drum, seals, gaskets

DIY Solutions

Clean lint filter and lint trap housing

Easy 10-15 minutes

Tools Needed: vacuum with brush attachment

1. Remove lint filter and clear lint by hand.
2. Use vacuum with narrow attachment to clean lint trap housing.
3. Replace filter and run a short cycle to check airflow.

⚠️ Safety First: Ensure dryer is off before cleaning lint trap housing

Inspect and clean dryer vent duct

Moderate 30-60 minutes

Tools Needed: vacuum with long hose, dryer vent cleaning brush kit

1. Unplug dryer and pull it away from wall.
2. Disconnect vent hose from dryer and outdoor vent.
3. Use vacuum and brush to remove lint/debris from vent hose and pipe.
4. Reattach vent, ensure secure fitting, and test dryer.

⚠️ Safety First: Wear a mask; lint dust can irritate

Avoid leaving wet clothes inside dryer

Easy ongoing habit

1. Transfer clothes to dryer immediately after washer finishes.
2. Start dryer promptly to prevent moisture buildup.

Improve laundry room ventilation

Easy 10 minutes

1. Open windows or use a fan to reduce humidity.
2. Ensure room has adequate airflow during drying cycles.

Clean drum interior for mildew

Moderate 15-30 minutes

Tools Needed: damp cloth, mild detergent or vinegar solution

1. Unplug dryer.
2. Wipe down drum, door seal and crevices with cloth and vinegar mix.
3. Leave door open to air dry completely.

⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power before cleaning

Professional Repairs

Professional dryer vent cleaning

Estimated Cost: $125 - $250

Inspection and repair of internal moisture/airflow components

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

When to Call a Professional

Cannot access or clear dryer vent obstruction

Musty smell persists after thorough cleaning

Visible mold growth or water damage around dryer

Suspected animal or debris deep in venting system

Preventive Maintenance

• Clean lint filter: Lint buildup, musty smells, reduced airflow
  Frequency: after every load
• Clean dryer vent: Blocked airflow and moisture retention
  Frequency: annually or more if high use
• Wipe drum interior: Mold/mildew formation
  Frequency: monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Samsung Dryer Musty smell, longer drying time?

Common causes include lint buildup in the trap, moisture from wet clothes, and poor ventilation.

How do I fix Samsung Dryer Musty smell, longer drying time myself?

Clean the lint filter, inspect the vent duct, and avoid leaving wet clothes inside.

How much does it cost to fix Musty smell, longer drying time?

Professional repairs can cost between $125 - $400 depending on the service needed.

When should I call a technician for Musty smell, longer drying time?

If DIY solutions fail or if there are signs of mold or internal issues, it's time to call a professional.

References & Sources

• Samsung dryer smells or smokes troubleshooting Official
• What To Do When Your Samsung Dryer Smells Community

Can I Fix This Myself?

100%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

• Clogged vent and lint trap (2 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

1. Clean the vent and lint trap to remove clogs

   Success rate: 100.0%

Community Discussions

dryer smelling musty, clothes taking longer to dry

Check and clean the vent and lint trap to remove clogs.

DIY View on Reddit →

dryer smelling musty, clothes smelling musty, taking longer to dry

Wet lint buildup was removed from the hot air circulation channel.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair