Kenmore Dryers Clothes Still Damp After Full Cycle: How to Fix It Yourself
When a Kenmore dryer runs a full cycle but clothes are still damp, the number one cause is a clogged lint vent. The dryer is heating, but the hot moist air can't escape, so clothes never fully dry. Before you assume something is broken, clean the vent from end to end.
Tools Needed
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Subscribe on YouTube⚠️ Safety First
- Unplug the dryer before cleaning vents or checking internal parts.
- A clogged dryer vent is a serious fire hazard — clean it at least once a year.
- If you smell burning during use, stop the dryer immediately and check the vent.
Before You Start
Parts You May Need
Step-by-Step Repair
- Step 1 of 51
Clean the lint trap
Pull out the lint screen and remove all the lint. Then look into the lint trap housing with a flashlight — lint accumulates down inside too. Use a vent brush to clean it out. If you use dryer sheets, the screen may have an invisible film — wash it with soap and water and let it dry.
Photo: Clean the lint trap - Step 2 of 52
Clean the entire vent duct
Pull the dryer away from the wall. Disconnect the vent hose from the back of the dryer. Use a dryer vent brush kit to clean inside the vent duct all the way to where it exits the house. Also clean the short vent duct on the back of the dryer itself. You'll be surprised how much lint comes out.
Photo: Clean the entire vent duct - Step 3 of 53
Check the outside vent hood
Go outside and find where the dryer vent exits your house. Make sure the flap opens freely and isn't blocked by lint, debris, or a bird's nest. Run the dryer and hold your hand near the vent — you should feel strong, warm airflow.
Photo: Check the outside vent hood - Step 4 of 54
Verify the dryer is heating
Run the dryer on high heat for 5 minutes, then open the door and feel the inside of the drum. It should be hot. If it's only warm or room temperature, the heating element or thermal fuse may have failed. See our specific guide for dryer not heating.
Photo: Verify the dryer is heating - Step 5 of 55
Don't overload
A single dryer load should fill the drum about halfway to two-thirds. An overstuffed dryer can't tumble clothes properly, so hot air doesn't reach everything. If you're cramming it full, try smaller loads and see if that solves the issue.
Photo: Don't overload
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If That Didn't Work
- A partially blown thermal fuse can reduce heating output without stopping it entirely.
- A worn felt drum seal lets cool air into the drum, reducing drying efficiency.
- The moisture sensor bars inside the drum may be coated with dryer sheet residue — clean them with rubbing alcohol.
When to Call a Professional
If the vent is clean and the dryer still doesn't fully heat, the heating element or gas valve solenoids may need replacing. These are $20–$50 parts. If you're not comfortable opening the dryer, a service call runs $100–$150.
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