Gently pull the vent pipe away from the wall duct. If your dryer is electric you should be able to push the appliance out of the way without any issues. This will open up more space to work.
Detach the dryer vent duct or dryer vent pipe (the thick silver or white hose) from the wall and the dryer. You might need to use a screwdriver to remove the duct. Be sure to remove any metal tape ...
I've always said that cleaning your dryer vent twice a year — with the daylight savings time changes — is an easy, and very satisfying chore. Some experts recommend doing it quarterly.