Why Does My Dryer Mangle the Laundry?

Common, Fixable Problems Inside a Dryer

Overloading, Mixed Fabrics, and Sheet Ropes

When the drum is stuffed full, garments stop tumbling and twist into tight ropes. Flat linens can wrap around lighter items and squeeze them like a wringer. Manufacturers recommend loose loading and mid-size batches; several note that about half a drum provides the best fabric care.

Damaged Drum Baffles or Seams

Pocket hardware such as coins, screws, or a zipper slider can nick a plastic lifter or the drum seam. As the drum rotates, that rough edge snags threads. If you hear a rhythmic scrape, inspect each baffle and the seam ring for burrs. Replace cracked lifters and snug any raised fasteners to remove catch points. We see this frequently after hard items rattle through a cycle.

Worn Felt Seals, Front Glides, Rollers, or Rear Bearing

Felt seals keep fabric out of the gap between the drum rim and the front or rear bulkhead. Once the felt tears—or the front glides wear thin—a narrow pinch area opens and fabric gets eaten along the edge. A failing rear bearing or flattened rollers can also let the drum sag and widen that gap. Renew seals and support parts to restore alignment.

Lint Screen, Housing, and Moisture Sensor Area

A cracked lint screen frame or a sharp lip on the housing can snag delicates. In addition, lint clumps near moisture sensors can create hot spots on synthetics. Inspect the screen and frame, wipe the sensor bars with a soft cloth, and replace a warped filter assembly if needed.

Venting, Heat Control, and Scorching

Blocked or long, restrictive vent runs drive up temperatures and extend dry times, often leaving shiny heat marks or brittle fibers—especially on elastics. Keep the duct clear, verify strong airflow at the exterior hood, and use short runs of rigid or semi-rigid metal duct. For gas dryers, poor venting also carries combustion by-products indoors, so treat airflow as a safety priority.

Power and Installation Details That Affect Fabric Care

A dryer on an undersized or miswired circuit can stall, run unevenly, or overdry portions of the load. Confirm the installation matches your provincial electrical code and the manufacturer’s specs, and use a licensed electrician for any wiring work. Local regulators publish clear guidance and FAQs.

Quick Checks You Can Do Right Now

• Empty the lint screen, run the dryer, and confirm strong airflow outdoors; if the exhaust is weak, schedule a vent cleaning.

• Rewash and spin at the correct washer speed, then dry a half load of mixed garments with sheets and duvets removed.

• Hand-feel inside the drum for burrs; check each baffle and the lint screen frame for sharp edges.

• Spin the drum by hand; listen for scraping and note any end play that suggests worn seals, glides, rollers, or the rear bearing.

Field-Tested Steps to Prevent Damage

Step 1: Load for Tumble, Not for Maximum Volume

Sort by fabric weight, then load loosely so items fall through air rather than sliding as a packed mass. Dry bulky pieces separately and avoid single giant knots such as a sheet wrapped around shirts. This simple change resolves many mangling complaints. ([whirlpool.com][1])

Step 2: Restore Airflow and Temperature Control

Clean the lint screen and wipe the moisture sensors. Inspect the entire vent path—transition duct, wall elbow, and exterior hood. Replace crushed foil flex with rigid or semi-rigid metal, shorten runs where possible, and ensure the hood opens fully. Better airflow prevents overdrying, hot spots, and fabric glazing. ([The Department of Energy’s Energy.gov][7])

Step 3: Remove Snag and Pinch Points

Unplug the dryer and shut off gas if applicable. Remove the front panel according to your model guide and examine the felt seals, front glides, drum rollers, and rear bearing. Replace any part showing tears, flat spots, or wobble. Confirm baffles are intact and screws sit flush. This is the most reliable fix for edge tears or crescent-shaped rips. ([partselect.ca][3])

Step 4: Verify Safe Power and Correct Installation

Use the correct dedicated circuit and receptacle for your model. When in doubt, hire a licensed electrician. For gas dryers, keep venting clear and have connections inspected by a qualified gas technician. Local safety authorities set expectations for competent work.

When to Stop and Call a Technician

• You see fabric caught at the drum edge or hear scraping that coincides with drum rotation.

• The drum has noticeable vertical play or thumps at start and stop.

• Clothes show heat glazing or there’s a hot smell even on low heat, which often indicates vent restriction.

• You cannot verify a code-compliant electrical setup or safe gas venting.

FAQ

Why do sheets twist into ropes and strangle other items?
Large flat linens wrap smaller garments when the load is too full or mixed by weight. Load fewer items and dry bulky pieces by themselves to preserve a true tumble.

Can a dryer actually tear holes in clothes?
Yes. A worn felt seal or front glide can open a gap that pinches fabric between the drum and bulkhead. Replacing the seals and supports eliminates the damage point.

Are scorch marks caused by the heater or by airflow problems?
Airflow issues typically cause localized overheating and longer cycles. Clean the vent path, confirm strong exterior airflow, and test again.

Is this a safety risk?
Restricted vents raise fire risk, and poor gas venting can expose occupants to carbon monoxide. Clear the ductwork and bring in qualified help if you suspect either issue.

Sources

1. Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers — Clothes Dryer Safety Tips.
2. National Fire Protection Association — Clothes Dryer Safety Tip Sheet.
3. Technical Safety BC — Residential ventilation requirements under the Building Code (shared-system provisions for laundry exhaust).
4. Technical Standards and Safety Authority (Ontario) — Fuel safety and field approval guidance for gas appliances and venting.
5. ENERGY STAR — Certified clothes dryers and heat pump benefits.
6. LG Dryer Owner’s Manuals — Loading and cycle selection guidance.