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How to Fix a Dryer That Is Causing Grease Marks

The last thing you want to see when you remove your freshly laundered clothes from the dryer are new stains that weren't there before you washed the garments. There are several possible causes of grease marks in the dryer, so before you take the time to open up your dryer, rule out minor causes such as fabric softener sheets or melted lip gloss residue on the inside of the drum. Once you've determined that there's no quick fix, you need to look at the drum seals; loose or corroded drum seals may cause grease from the motor to leak into the drum.

Things You'll Need

  • Screwdriver
  • Putty knife
  • Utility knife
  • Replacement dryer seal
  • Sealant
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Instructions

    • 1

      Disconnect the dryer from the power source, either by unplugging it or cutting off the gas. Remove the lint screen.

    • 2

      Open the top panel of the dryer. Some models require removing the end caps on either side of the control panel by removing two screws, while some involve lifting the end caps to remove several screws. Other models have spring tabs under the top panel you hold down with a putty knife. Once you release the console and top panel, push the panel up and back on its hinges.

    • 3

      Remove the screws on the front panel. Look for screws near the bottom, inside the front panel near the open top and around the door. There may be just two screws, or there may be more — every dryer is different. Once the screws have been removed, you will be able to remove the front panel from the unit, exposing the drum. Unplug any wires connected to the door as you remove the front.

    • 4

      Remove the drum; depending on your dryer, either release the tension on the belt below the drum by sliding it off the pulley, or remove the ball on the end of the drum from its socket.

    • 5

      Inspect the felt seals. Your dryer's drum may have one or two. If they are worn or show damage, remove them, using a utility knife pry them off and scrape away any remaining adhesive.

    • 6

      Apply sealant to the new drum seal and attach it in place of the old one, making sure there are no gaps or loose edges. Allow the sealant to dry overnight.

    • 7

      Reassemble the dryer by reversing the steps you took to disassemble the dryer, making sure the belt is installed around the pulleys properly.