This little laundry room upgrade is one of those projects I wish I had done years ago. By attaching a small metal funnel to the side of the dryer with magnetic hooks, you get a tidy spot to drop lint the second you pull it from the trap instead of balancing it on the machine or making a mess on the floor. It takes just a few supplies, no drilling, and it keeps the whole area looking much more pulled together.

I love projects like this because they solve a real everyday problem without turning into a big weekend job. If your laundry room is short on space, if you like quick organizing wins, or if you just want a neater system that your whole family can actually use, this is a smart and simple one to make.

Materials for a magnetic dryer-side lint bin laid out on a table
Materials for a magnetic dryer-side lint bin laid out on a table

Materials

1 small brushed silver metal funnel, 4 to 5 inches wide across the top
2 heavy-duty magnetic hooks, silver, each rated to hold at least 5 pounds
2 strips clear heavy-duty mounting tape, 1 inch long each
1 alcohol wipe, or 1 tablespoon rubbing alcohol with a cotton pad
1 small pair of scissors

Instructions

1. Wipe the outside side panel of your dryer where you want the lint bin to sit, cleaning an area about 8 inches tall and 6 inches wide, and let it dry fully.

2. Clean the outside of the funnel with the alcohol wipe, especially the back area where the magnetic hooks will touch, so the adhesive grips well.

3. Cut 2 pieces of heavy-duty mounting tape about 1 inch long each, and press one piece onto the flat contact point of each magnetic hook.

4. Stick the two magnetic hooks vertically onto the back outside of the funnel, spacing them evenly so the funnel will hang upright with the wide opening facing up.

5. Press each hook firmly for 30 seconds, then let the adhesive set for the time recommended on the mounting tape package before hanging the funnel.

6. Place the funnel onto the side of the dryer at a comfortable height, usually just below the lint trap level, and check that it sits straight and feels secure.

7. Test it by dropping in a small handful of dryer lint; if the funnel tilts, remove it and adjust the hook spacing slightly higher and lower for better balance.

8. Start using it every time you empty the lint trap, and dump the collected lint into the trash regularly so the bin stays clean and ready.

Finished magnetic laundry room lint bin on the side of a dryer
Finished magnetic laundry room lint bin on the side of a dryer

Variations & Tips

For stronger hold: If your funnel is a little heavier, use larger magnetic hooks and add a third hook in the center for extra support.

For picky household helpers: In my house, the easier something is to use, the more likely everyone is to actually do it. Mount the funnel low enough that older kids can reach it comfortably and make lint cleanup part of the laundry routine.

To protect the dryer finish: Make sure the magnetic hook backs are smooth and clean before mounting the funnel so they do not scratch the appliance.

For easy emptying: Set the funnel near the front edge of the dryer side panel so you can lift it off quickly and dump the lint into the trash in one motion.

Alternative look: A stainless steel mini kitchen funnel gives this project a clean, polished look, but a galvanized metal funnel works too if you like a more farmhouse-style laundry room.

Important safety tip: This is only for clean dryer lint after it has been removed from the trap. Empty it often, and do not let lint pile up for long-term storage.