What Should I Do If I Have Birds in My Dryer Vent?

cachevalleydryerve
Apr 29
2 min read

Springtime Nesting Problems and How to Solve Them

Spring in Cache Valley is beautiful—flowers are blooming, temperatures are rising, and birds are returning from migration. But sometimes, those cheerful spring sounds can signal a problem—birds nesting in your dryer vent.

If you’ve started hearing chirping or flapping noises near your laundry room, or your dryer just isn’t working like it used to, it could mean birds have built a nest inside the vent. Don’t worry—we’ll explain exactly what to do.

Why Birds Nest in Dryer Vents in Spring

During the spring nesting season, birds are looking for safe, warm, and enclosed places to raise their young. Dryer vents—especially ones without proper covers—are perfect for them.

Unfortunately, a bird nest in your dryer vent can cause:

Fire hazards from restricted airflow
Longer drying times and higher energy bills
Foul odors or mold growth
Bird mites, droppings, and health risks

Common Signs You Have Birds in Your Dryer Vent

Not sure if birds have taken up residence in your vent? Here are some telltale signs:

Chirping or flapping sounds coming from the vent or laundry room
Dryer running hotter than normal or taking too long to dry clothes
Visible nesting material or feathers sticking out of the vent
Burning or musty smell while the dryer is running
Lint or debris near the outside vent hood

What to Do if You Have Birds in Your Dryer Vent

1. Stop Using the Dryer Immediately

Blocked vents can overheat and pose a serious fire risk. Turn the dryer off until the problem is resolved.

2. Call a Professional

A certified dryer vent cleaning company can:

Safely remove nests (when legally allowed)
Clean and sanitize the vent system
Check for and repair any damage
Install a bird guard or pest-proof cover to prevent future problems

Cache Valley Dryer Vent Pros offers all of these services and more. However, it is important to note that we cannot remove an active nest with baby birds or eggs.