Burning Smell in Dryer? Causes & Safe Solutions

That first whiff of a burning smell from your dryer is something you can't ignore. It’s an immediate red flag. Whether it's coming from a standalone tumble dryer or an all-in-one washer dryer, the cause is often as simple as a forgotten tissue left in a pocket or a heavy build-up of flammable lint. However, it can sometimes point to a more serious electrical or mechanical fault. How you react in those first few moments is crucial for your safety.

What To Do First When Your Dryer Smells Like It's Burning

The second you notice a burning smell, whether it’s from your tumble dryer or a washer dryer, you need to act. Don't wait. The very first and most important thing to do is to stop the cycle and unplug the appliance from the wall socket. This instantly cuts the electrical supply, stopping the problem from getting any worse.

With the machine safely powered down, it’s time to put on your detective hat. The specific type of smell is your biggest clue to what’s going on inside.

• Does it smell dusty and hot, like scorched lint?
• Is it a sharp, chemical scent similar to melting plastic?
• Or maybe it’s a distinct metallic or rubbery odour that suggests something is overheating?

Getting a handle on the exact scent helps you figure out if you're facing a simple cleaning job or a more complex fault that needs an expert.

Decoding Dryer Burning Smells

To help you narrow down the possibilities, here’s a quick reference table. Use it to identify the likely cause based on the specific type of burning odour you're detecting.

This initial diagnosis is your starting point. It helps you decide whether to proceed with some simple DIY checks or to recognise when the problem is beyond a quick fix.

A musty, hot smell, for instance, is almost always linked to lint accumulation. This is the most common culprit behind dryer fires, but luckily, it's also the easiest to sort out yourself. For a detailed walkthrough, check out our guide on how to clean your tumble dryer for optimal performance.

A burning smell is your dryer’s cry for help. Ignoring it is not an option, as it often points to a significant fire hazard. Your safety depends on taking immediate, decisive action.

If you’ve done these initial checks and the smell won't go away, or if you feel at all unsure, the safest bet is to call in the experts. Attempting to fix complex mechanical or electrical issues without the right know-how can be dangerous. For total peace of mind, book one of our qualified technicians for professional tumble dryer repairs or specialised washer dryer repairs.

Lint Buildup: The Hidden Fire Hazard

That harmless-looking fluff you pull from your dryer's filter after each cycle is more dangerous than you might think. Lint is extremely flammable, and when it builds up in either a tumble dryer or a washer dryer, it’s the most common reason for a burning smell in a dryer. This smell is a clear warning sign of a serious fire risk.

While cleaning the visible filter is a great start, it's only half the battle.

The real danger often lurks where you can't see it. Lint can easily bypass the filter and settle deep inside the dryer's workings. We’re talking about the filter housing, the flexible vent hose, and even the external vent flap on the outside of your house. As this material collects, it restricts airflow and causes the machine to overheat. That’s when you'll start to notice that distinct, scorched smell.

The statistics on this are quite sobering. In 2021/2022, UK fire statistics revealed there were 884 tumble dryer fires and 509 washing machine fires (many of which were washer dryers). These appliances were involved in nearly 5% of all domestic appliance fires, with forgotten filters and ignored instructions being major culprits.

A Complete Lint Clean-Out Routine

To keep your tumble dryer or washer dryer safe, you need a cleaning schedule that goes beyond just the basics. It’s all about tackling those hidden hotspots where lint loves to gather.

A Simple Cleaning Schedule:

• After Every Single Load: Clean the main lint filter. No exceptions. This is your first and most effective line of defence.
• Once a Month: Grab your vacuum and use its crevice tool to clean out the filter housing where the screen slides in. You’ll be shocked at how much fluff gets trapped in there.
• Annually (At Least): Disconnect the vent hose from the back of the dryer and the wall. Give it a good shake and use a long-handled brush or a special vacuum attachment to clear it out completely. Don't forget to check the vent flap outside your home to make sure it opens and closes freely.

Think of it like this: a clogged dryer vent is like a blocked chimney. Heat and flammable fluff build up with nowhere to go, creating the perfect recipe for a fire. A simple, regular cleaning routine is all it takes to prevent this dangerous situation.

This proactive approach doesn't just prevent a burning smell; it also makes your dryer run more efficiently, which saves you energy and money. Overlooking this simple maintenance is one of the most common and dangerous mistakes people make. To steer clear of other frequent pitfalls, you can discover more about the 5 laundry mistakes you’re probably making in our helpful guide.

If you’ve done a thorough deep clean and the burning smell just won't go away, the problem might be something else. In that case, don't take any chances. Our expert engineers provide reliable tumble dryer repairs and washer dryer repairs to safely diagnose and fix the issue for you.

Diagnosing Mechanical and Electrical Problems

So, you've meticulously cleaned out every last speck of lint, but that unnerving burning smell just won't go away. This is usually the point where the problem is deeper than simple maintenance. We're now moving into the territory of mechanical or electrical faults inside your tumble dryer or washer dryer.

While this is definitely not the time for a DIY repair, understanding what might be going wrong can help you describe the issue clearly to an expert.

When parts inside the machine fail, they often give off very specific odours. A distinct burning rubber smell, for example, is a classic sign of a problem with the drive belt. Think of it as a large rubber band that spins the drum. If it gets worn, frayed, or slips out of place, the friction can cause it to heat up and start to melt, creating that pungent smell.

On the other hand, a sharp, acrid smell – often described as 'electrical burning' – points to a different set of culprits. This particular odour is a big red flag for an issue with the electrical system, like a struggling motor or faulty wiring.

Common Mechanical and Electrical Culprits

When a burning smell isn't caused by lint, it's usually one of a few key components on its last legs. Each one comes with its own risks and needs immediate attention from a professional.

• Faulty Drive Motor: An overworked or failing motor can get incredibly hot, causing its wire casings to melt. This creates a strong electrical burning smell and is often accompanied by a loud humming or buzzing sound.
• Worn Drum Bearings: These small parts support the drum as it spins. Once they wear out, they create a lot of friction, which can lead to overheating and a burning smell. You might also hear a grating or squealing noise.
• Failed Thermostat: The thermostat is basically the brain of your dryer's heating system. If it fails, it can't regulate the temperature properly. This can cause the appliance to get dangerously hot, scorching your clothes or other internal parts.

The danger of these electrical faults really can't be overstated. Faulty thermostats and heating elements are often cited as the cause of devastating appliance fires. For instance, between 2009 and 2019, the London Fire Brigade attended 97 fires caused by specific Hoover Candy tumble dryers, with the faults largely traced back to thermostats, heating elements, and control panels. You can learn more about these serious fire safety concerns and their impact.

A burning smell that isn't lint is your appliance’s final warning. Mechanical and electrical failures don't fix themselves; they only become more dangerous over time. Never attempt to diagnose or repair these issues yourself due to the serious risk of electric shock and fire.

If you suspect a mechanical or electrical issue is the source of the burning smell, your only safe course of action is to call a qualified engineer. Our experts are equipped to handle complex tumble dryer repairs and can safely find and fix the fault. For all-in-one machines, our specialised washer dryer repairs service ensures the correct components are inspected and replaced, giving you complete peace of mind.

Uncovering Foreign Objects and Other Odd Causes

So, you’ve cleared out all the lint and you don't suspect a mechanical fault, but that burning smell is still hanging around. What now? Well, the source might be something you’d never expect. It’s surprisingly common for the culprit to be a stray item left in a pocket, which can cause quite a pungent and alarming odour when heated in a tumble dryer or washer dryer.

We’ve all been there: forgetting to empty our pockets before chucking a load in the wash. Everyday things like a tube of lip balm, a forgotten wax crayon, or a small plastic toy can easily melt in the intense heat of a tumble dryer or the drying cycle of a washer dryer. This creates a strong, chemical or plastic burning smell that can even cling to your clean clothes.

Investigating and Cleaning the Drum

If you reckon a foreign object is to blame, the first thing to do is a careful inspection. Make sure the appliance is unplugged, then grab a torch and get a good look inside the drum. You’re searching for any residue, melted spots, or bits of debris stuck to the metal.

• Check pockets religiously before every load: This is your best line of defence and the easiest way to prevent this problem.
• Visually inspect the drum: Look for any dark, sticky, or waxy patches that don’t belong.
• Gently scrape away residue: Once the drum is completely cool, use a plastic scraper or an old credit card to lift off any melted gunk. Steer clear of metal tools, as they can easily scratch the drum's surface.
• Clean with a mild solution: For any stubborn stains left behind, dampen a cloth with a mix of mild soap and warm water and give the area a good wipe. Follow up with a clean, damp cloth to get rid of any soap residue.

A great tip is to run an empty cycle with a couple of old towels afterwards. This helps burn off any remaining cleaning solution and makes sure the smell is completely gone before you dry your next load of proper clothes.

Another odd but serious cause is a small item of clothing—think a stray sock or a piece of underwear—getting past the drum seal and lodging itself near the heating element. This is a significant fire risk and produces a very distinct scorched fabric smell. If you suspect this has happened, it is crucial to stop using the machine immediately.

Finally, if your dryer is brand new, a faint chemical smell during the first one or two cycles is often perfectly normal. This is usually just the factory-applied protective oils on the heating element burning off. However, if this smell is particularly strong or doesn't go away, stop using the appliance.

If you’ve thoroughly cleaned the drum and the burning smell continues, or if you believe an item is trapped somewhere inside the machine, don't take any chances. It’s time to call in a professional. Our expert engineers offer safe and reliable tumble dryer repairs and specialised washer dryer repairs to diagnose and sort out these more unusual issues.

Knowing When To Call A Professional

Knowing your limits is a key part of appliance safety. While a DIY task like cleaning the lint filter is simple and safe, attempting to fix internal mechanical or electrical faults is a job strictly for a qualified engineer. Knowing the clear warning signs that tell you to stop troubleshooting and pick up the phone is crucial, whether you have a tumble dryer or a washer dryer.

Your safety should always be the top priority. Attempting complex repairs on either appliance without the proper training and tools comes with serious risks. These range from electric shock to accidentally making a fire hazard even worse.

Red Flags That Demand an Expert

If you've performed a thorough deep clean of all lint traps and vents but the burning smell continues, it’s a strong signal that the problem lies deeper within the machine. Don’t ignore these definitive signs that it's time for professional help:

• Persistent Burning Smell: If the odour doesn't disappear after a complete clean, the cause is almost certainly a failing component.
• Visible Smoke: Any amount of smoke is an immediate red flag. Unplug the appliance and do not use it again until it has been inspected.
• Strange Noises: Loud grinding, squealing, or humming sounds often accompany a burning smell, pointing to a failing motor or worn-out bearings.
• Excessive Heat: If the outside casing of the dryer feels unusually hot to the touch, it indicates a serious overheating problem that a simple clean won't fix.

These symptoms suggest a more complex issue is at play. You can find more information about these kinds of issues in our guide to common tumble dryer problems and their solutions.

The risks associated with faulty appliances are significant. A professional diagnosis isn't just about getting your dryer working again; it's about ensuring it operates safely for you and your family, eliminating the root cause of the danger.

The frequency of appliance-related fires highlights why professional intervention is so important. In England, accidental fires involving white goods like tumble dryers are alarmingly common. Data shows that in a recent year, these appliances caused an average of three fires every single day, with urban areas like Greater London seeing as many as 186 incidents annually. You can read the full report on white goods fire safety to understand the scale of the issue.

Why Professional Repair Is the Safest Choice

When DIY troubleshooting isn't enough, it's crucial to bring in professional domestic maintenance services. A qualified engineer has the diagnostic tools and expertise to pinpoint the exact failing component, whether it’s a faulty thermostat, a worn drive belt, or a compromised motor.

They can safely access and replace these parts, ensuring the repair is done correctly and to safety standards. Choosing a professional service for your tumble dryer or washer dryer provides peace of mind that the fire risk has been properly addressed.

If your appliance is showing any of the serious symptoms mentioned above, don't hesitate. For a safe and reliable solution, book one of our expert engineers for professional washer dryer repairs or expert tumble dryer repairs today.

Frequently Asked Questions

When you're faced with something as worrying as a burning smell coming from your dryer, it's completely normal to have a lot of questions. We get calls about this all the time, so we've put together answers to some of the most common queries to help you tackle the problem with a bit more confidence.

Is It Safe To Use My Dryer If It Has A Slight Burning Smell?

In a word: no. You should never, ever use an appliance that's giving off a burning smell, no matter how faint. This applies to both tumble dryers and washer dryers.

Think of that smell as a warning flare. It’s telling you something is wrong – it could be a dangerous build-up of lint that's getting scorched by the heating element, or it might be a sign of a more serious electrical component failing. Pushing your luck and running another cycle significantly increases the risk of a fire. The only safe move is to stop the dryer, unplug it from the wall, and find the cause before you even think about using it again.

How Often Should I Clean My Dryer Vent System?

This is probably the most important maintenance question we get, and for good reason. It’s a two-part answer.

First, the lint filter screen inside the door needs cleaning after every single load. No exceptions. Making this a habit is your number one defence against lint build-up.

For the full system – the flexible vent hose behind the machine and the vent flap on the outside of your house – you should give it a thorough clean at least once a year. However, if you have a big family, do a lot of laundry, or have pets that shed, stepping that up to every six months is a much safer bet. This prevents the blockages that are a leading cause of overheating and burning smells in both tumble dryers and washer dryers.

A brand-new dryer might have a slight chemical smell on its first run as factory coatings burn off, which is usually normal. But if the smell is strong, acrid, or sticks around past the second cycle, something's not right. Stop using it and get in touch with the manufacturer or a professional.

Can A Burning Smell From A Washer Dryer Affect The Wash Cycle?

That's a really good question. While the burning smell from a washer dryer almost always comes from the drying components (think the heating element, motor, or blocked vents), you can't rule out an underlying electrical fault.

A problem with the main control board or some internal wiring could, in theory, affect all of the machine's functions, not just the drying. To be on the safe side, it's best to stop using the appliance for both washing and drying until the source of the smell has been properly diagnosed and fixed by a qualified engineer.

If you find yourself wondering whether it's time for a new appliance, it pays to be informed. For anyone wanting to explore the latest models and features, this comprehensive clothes dryer buying guide offers some really useful insights.

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and that burning smell just won’t go away, or if you suspect an electrical or mechanical fault, please don't take any chances. The Go Assist team is here to help. Our network of vetted, qualified engineers provides fast, reliable and safe repairs. Protect your home and your peace of mind by booking a professional tumble dryer repairs or washer dryer repairs service today.