Symptoms
- Small burn-like marks or melted spots on synthetic fabric
- Snags, pulls, or small holes appearing after drying
- Damage in a consistent spot on multiple items
- Zippers or buttons involved in the damage
Likely causes
- CommonSharp or rough spot inside the drum from rust or chipped paintA rusted or damaged drum interior can snag or tear fabric during tumbling.
- CommonMetal parts like zippers, buttons, or underwire catching on other clothesUnfastened zippers or exposed metal frequently causes small holes in nearby items.
- PossibleBroken or sharp-edged drum baffleA cracked baffle can create a sharp edge that catches fabric.
- PossibleForeign object lodged in the drumA small hard object can scrape or snag clothes repeatedly.
- Less commonMelted synthetic material from another item transferring heat damageA melted plastic item can transfer damage to nearby fabric.
What to do
- Zip up zippers, fasten hooks, and turn items with exposed metal inside out before drying.
- Check pockets for pens, tools, or other hard items before starting a cycle.
- Run your hand carefully around the inside of the drum (unplugged) feeling for rust spots, chips, or sharp edges.
- Inspect the baffles for cracks or broken edges that could snag fabric.
- Look closely for any small hard object stuck in the drum or along the door seal.
- Cover or sand down small rust spots if that's the identified cause, or have the drum professionally repaired or replaced if damage is significant.
- Have a technician inspect and repair the drum interior if you can't find or fix the source of damage yourself.
Tools and parts
- Flashlight
Dryer drum baffleSearch: “dryer drum baffle replacement”
When to call a pro
If you find rust, drum damage, or a sharp edge you can't safely fix yourself, have an appliance technician repair or replace the drum.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.