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Dryer Safety Blog Ireland

12July

What to Do If Your Dryer Starts Smoking

With Ireland's unpredictable weather, tumble dryers are a household essential. But did you know that they’re also a leading cause of domestic fires? Dublin Fire Brigade and Aviva Ireland have issued fresh warnings about dryer safety—especially for machines left unattended or used overnight. Here's what every household in Ireland should know.

  • Switch off your dryer immediately at the plug or wall switch if you see smoke.
  • Do not open the dryer door straight away—oxygen can intensify any fire inside.
  • Ventilate the room and monitor for flames or persistent smoke.
  • Use a dry powder fire extinguisher if a fire breaks out—never water on electrical fires.
  • Call 112 or 999 if you're unsure or notice fire/smoke worsening.
  • Have your dryer inspected before reuse, especially if there was burning smell or visible damage.

Common Fire Risks in Irish Homes

Most dryer fires are caused by lint buildup, oil-stained clothes, or poor ventilation. These issues are especially common in older homes or apartments with limited dryer vent access. Always clean the lint trap after every use and inspect the vent pipe every few months.

Dryer Fire Safety Tips in ireland

Can You Sleep While the Dryer Is On?



Absolutely not. Dublin Fire Brigade strongly advises against running your dryer overnight. Fires can start without warning—even hours after drying oil-contaminated fabrics like towels or sportswear. Multiple Irish households have faced devastating losses from fires that started while everyone was asleep.

Is It Rude to Run the Dryer Late at Night?

Yes, especially in shared or apartment settings common in Dublin, Cork, and Galway. Thin walls and floorboards mean late-night appliance noise can disturb others. Always check house rules, and if necessary, run machines during daytime or early evening hours.

Recent Fire Incidents Across Ireland



Dublin 15: A family lost their home after running their dryer overnight.
Waterford: Oil-stained towels reignited hours after drying.
2023: Over 150 tumble dryer-related fires recorded across Irish counties, many caused by blocked vents or faulty machines.

Dryer Safety Checklist for Irish Homes



✅ Clean the lint filter after every use
✅ Vacuum and inspect the dryer hose every 6–12 months
✅ Don’t dry clothes with suncream, cooking oil, or chemical residues
✅ Register your dryer at productrecall.ie
✅ Never leave the house or go to bed with the dryer running

Smarter Drying in Wet Irish Weather



Our self-service dryers are built for Irish conditions. Instead of risking a fire at home, visit your local Self Service Laundry station. They're fast, safe, and always maintained — with no lint buildup or fire risks to worry about.

Pro tip: For extra safety, consider heat pump dryers at home, or use a dehumidifier and drying rack combo during wet months.

Conclusion



Don’t underestimate the dangers of tumble dryers. With proper cleaning and safe usage habits, you can protect your home from one of Ireland’s most common household fire risks. For a safer drying experience, trust your nearest Self Service Laundry station — where speed meets safety.