Dryer Nightmare: What I Learned After My Dryer Almost Caught Fire
Let me tell you, friend — it is a downright disaster when your dryer goes out.

I know this from first-hand experience, and it’s something I hope never to live through again.

For weeks, my kids and I washed clothes, then hauled heavy, soggy piles to the laundromat just to dry them. We built arm muscles, tested our patience, and (barely) survived on our sense of humor.

Let’s just say… it was a strength-building experience that stretched our fruits of the spirit in more ways than we cared to be stretched. 😂

The Shocking Cause: Hidden Lint Buildup

When the repairman finally showed up, he took our dryer completely apart — and what he found stopped me in my tracks.

Gallons and gallons of lint were packed inside the unit, hiding between the drum and the dryer wall.

Since lint is highly flammable, the whole system could have burst into flames at any moment.

So, in a strange way, my broken dryer was actually a blessing in disguise.

That experience changed how I care for our dryer forever.

How to Prevent Dryer Lint Buildup (and Protect Your Home)

After that near miss, I stopped just cleaning the lint screen. Now I use a special lint cleaning tool that reaches deep inside and clears out what you can’t see.

👉 Keeping your dryer lint-free isn’t just about extending its life — it’s about protecting your family’s safety.

A clean dryer:
✅ Runs more efficiently
✅ Uses less energy
✅ Reduces fire risk
✅ Saves you money on repairs

Why You Should Ditch Toxic Dryer Sheets

Here’s a sneaky truth most people don’t realize: dryer sheets can actually shorten your dryer’s life and harm your health.

They leave a thin film on the lint screen that blocks airflow — making your dryer work harder and longer.

Worse, those same sheets contain hormone-disrupting chemicals that cling to your clothes and rub into your skin. These can contribute to skin irritation, mood swings, and other health issues over time.

So yes, tossing those dryer sheets isn’t just good for your appliance — it’s good for your hormones and your family’s wellbeing.

A Healthier, Non-Toxic Laundry Hack (That Smells Amazing)

Instead of toxic dryer sheets, try this easy, affordable swap:
  1. Grab a clean washcloth or unscented baby wipe.
  2. Add a few drops of your favorite Young Living essential oil (I love Lavender, Lemon, or Purification).
  3. Toss it in near the end of the drying cycle.
Your clothes will come out soft, fresh, and beautifully scented — no chemicals required.

How to Deep Clean Your Dryer Lint Screen

Did you know a clogged lint screen can make your dryer overheat or even spark a fire? 😳
Here’s how to fix it:
  1. Remove the lint screen.
  2. Wash it with dish soap, hot water, and a soft brush or towel.
  3. If water doesn’t flow easily through the mesh, sprinkle on some baking soda and scrub gently.
  4. Let it dry completely before putting it back in.
This simple maintenance step can keep your dryer running smoothly — and your home safe.

Keep It Clean, Keep It Safe

Dryer maintenance isn’t glamorous, but it’s one of those chores that protects both your home and your health.

So grab your essential oils, clean that lint screen, and give your hardworking dryer a little love today.

Do you have any dryer maintenance secrets or favorite non-toxic laundry tips?

Share them below — I’d love to hear what’s working for you! 💛

Big hugs (and lint-free laundry),
Terri

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WELL, HELLO!

 
Hi Friend!


I’m Terri Bonin—wife to my favorite dentist (who keeps me smiling in more ways than one!) and mama to eleven incredible kiddos… yep, on purpose! Now, they’re growing up, getting married, and multiplying, so our family is basically the size of a small town!

I’ve homeschooled for over 25 years (with several more to go until our youngest, who’s eleven, graduates). I was crunchy before it was cool and slathering essential oils on my kids before they were a thing. Around here, I share mom hacks, marriage wisdom, wellness tips, and real-life glimpses into our beautifully chaotic, laughter-filled home.

I hope you find this space happy, helpful, and relatable! And if you love good conversations, come hang out with me on my podcast, "Terri Bonin At Home", where we chat about building a strong family culture, natural remedies, and navigating the wonderful (and sometimes wild) world of marriage and motherhood.

Let’s do life together—one drop, one laugh, and one lesson at a time!

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