Dryer lint is one of those things you just cannot avoid, no matter how frequently you clean out your lint trap, especially during these colder months. And even if you are diligent, there are likely some bits of fuzz and lint in the out-of-reach places you can’t get to. Over time, that build-up can affect the dryer’s function, throwing annoying errors and stopping the drying cycle, but more importantly, it could become a fire hazard. That’s why this incredibly popular Sealegend Dryer Vent Cleaner Kit is just what you need to unclog your vent — and it’s just $10.

This two-piece kit + your vacuum cleaner = gobs of nasty lint removed and untold dollars saved.

$9 at Amazon

If your clothes aren’t coming out as dry as you’d like, or it’s taking an extra cycle to get the job done, a clogged vent might be the issue. The build-up over many years will impact performance but once you get all the fuzz out of the way, you’ll save time, money and energy.

This kit comes with a hose, an adapter and a guide wire. The hose is 32 inches long and extra-narrow, so you can get deep inside your dryer. The adapter allows you to attach the hose to your vacuum (FYI: It does not work with robot vacuums). The guide wire attaches to the end of the hose to help you push it into the nooks and crannies of your dryer.

Once you have the hose attached to your vacuum, remove the lint screen from your dryer. Then, using the guide wire, stick the end of the hose into the slot and turn on your vacuum. Finally, let the vacuum run while moving the hose around inside the dryer — then watch the magic happen as your dryer becomes un-choked.

What reviewers say

This gadget gets a lot of love from Amazon customers — it has received over 14,000 five-star ratings!

“I didn’t realize how much lint was in my dryer, and I clean the lint trap after every load. Still, I was amazed at how much lint got past it. The drying time for each load has been cut down by 10 to 15 minutes; all the lint must have been affecting the efficiency of my dryer. The dryer cleaning kit will pay for itself with savings on electric bills,” said one rave reviewer.

“I have to admit I was a bit skeptical when I read the reviews on this product. I tried it today for the first time. I was absolutely amazed at how well the kit worked. The brush is well made and sturdy, as is the vacuum attachment,” reported this convert. “Very pleased with the results. Highly recommend!”

“I have OCD (over-cleaning disorder), and I thought using a wand was enough to clean my dryer. I was so wrong. Not only did the suction power fill up my vacuum container two times, but my lint is even a lighter color after a dry cycle! Highly recommend,” wrote a satisfied customer. “I feel safer now that I know my dryer is truly clean!

One shopper remarked: “A little awkward with the upright vacuum — hard to get a seal with the curved tube — but my shop vacuum worked best. Tubing is a little stiff, making it a little aggravating, but it works.”

Think of it as a Heimlich maneuver for your dryer … and we all know how crucially important that can be.

$10 at Amazon

If you have Amazon Prime, you’ll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $25 or more.)

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.