{"id":3287,"date":"2023-01-02T12:49:26","date_gmt":"2023-01-02T12:49:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/?p=3287"},"modified":"2023-01-02T12:49:30","modified_gmt":"2023-01-02T12:49:30","slug":"how-long-can-clothes-sit-in-the-washer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/how-long-can-clothes-sit-in-the-washer\/","title":{"rendered":"Maximizing Your Laundry Routine: How Long Can Clothes Safely Sit in the Washer?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Now:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s a no-brainer that <strong>you should not let a load of washed laundry sit in the washer for too long<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But,<strong> how long is too long?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Well:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This post delves into that. Below, we\u2019ll go through what happens <strong>when wet clothes are left in the washer longer than necessary. <\/strong>And <strong>when it\u2019s safe to dry the load without rewashing.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s get into it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_62 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-6613b1d32d753\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"ez-toc-cssicon\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-6613b1d32d753\" checked aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/how-long-can-clothes-sit-in-the-washer\/#How_Long_Can_You_Leave_Wet_Clothes_In_The_Washer\" title=\"How Long Can You Leave Wet Clothes In The Washer?\">How Long Can You Leave Wet Clothes In The Washer?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/how-long-can-clothes-sit-in-the-washer\/#What_Happens_When_Wet_Clothes_Are_Left_In_The_Washer_For_Days\" title=\"What Happens When Wet Clothes Are Left In The Washer For Days?\">What Happens When Wet Clothes Are Left In The Washer For Days?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/how-long-can-clothes-sit-in-the-washer\/#How_To_Salvage_Clothes_That_Have_Been_Forgotten_In_The_Washer\" title=\"How To Salvage Clothes That Have Been Forgotten In The Washer\">How To Salvage Clothes That Have Been Forgotten In The Washer<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/how-long-can-clothes-sit-in-the-washer\/#1_Rewash_Using_Hot_Water\" title=\"1. Rewash Using Hot Water\">1. Rewash Using Hot Water<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/how-long-can-clothes-sit-in-the-washer\/#2_Presoak_And_Clean_Using_A_Mildew_And_Mold_Remover\" title=\"2. Presoak And Clean Using A Mildew And Mold Remover\">2. Presoak And Clean Using A Mildew And Mold Remover<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/how-long-can-clothes-sit-in-the-washer\/#3_Use_A_Scented_Detergent\" title=\"3. Use A Scented Detergent\">3. Use A Scented Detergent<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/how-long-can-clothes-sit-in-the-washer\/#4_Air_Dry_The_Clothes\" title=\"4. Air Dry The Clothes\">4. Air Dry The Clothes<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/how-long-can-clothes-sit-in-the-washer\/#Step_By_Step_On_How_To_Rewash_Clothes_Left_In_The_Washer\" title=\"Step By Step On How To Rewash Clothes Left In The Washer\">Step By Step On How To Rewash Clothes Left In The Washer<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/how-long-can-clothes-sit-in-the-washer\/#Step_1_Unload_The_Washing_Machine\" title=\"Step 1: Unload The Washing Machine.\">Step 1: Unload The Washing Machine.<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/how-long-can-clothes-sit-in-the-washer\/#Step_2_Run_A_Hot_Cycle_to_Clean_the_Washer\" title=\"Step 2: Run A Hot Cycle to Clean the Washer\">Step 2: Run A Hot Cycle to Clean the Washer<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/how-long-can-clothes-sit-in-the-washer\/#Step_3_Separate_And_Pretreat_The_Clothes\" title=\"Step 3: Separate And Pretreat The Clothes\">Step 3: Separate And Pretreat The Clothes<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/how-long-can-clothes-sit-in-the-washer\/#Step_4_Rewash_The_Clothes\" title=\"Step 4: Rewash The Clothes\">Step 4: Rewash The Clothes<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/how-long-can-clothes-sit-in-the-washer\/#Step_5_Air_Dry_the_clothes\" title=\"Step 5: Air Dry the clothes\">Step 5: Air Dry the clothes<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/how-long-can-clothes-sit-in-the-washer\/#What_To_Do_If_You_Keep_Forgetting_Clothes_In_The_Washer\" title=\"What To Do If You Keep Forgetting Clothes In The Washer\">What To Do If You Keep Forgetting Clothes In The Washer<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/how-long-can-clothes-sit-in-the-washer\/#Laundry_Stinks_After_Washing_Or_Has_Unknown_Stains\" title=\"Laundry Stinks After Washing Or Has Unknown Stains\">Laundry Stinks After Washing Or Has Unknown Stains<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/how-long-can-clothes-sit-in-the-washer\/#1_Some_of_the_Garments_Were_Smelly_and_Moldy\" title=\"1. Some of the Garments Were Smelly and Moldy\">1. Some of the Garments Were Smelly and Moldy<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/how-long-can-clothes-sit-in-the-washer\/#2_Your_Washing_Machine_Has_Mildew_And_Mold\" title=\"2. Your Washing Machine Has Mildew And Mold\">2. Your Washing Machine Has Mildew And Mold<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/how-long-can-clothes-sit-in-the-washer\/#3_You_Are_Overloading_The_Washer\" title=\"3. You Are Overloading The Washer\">3. You Are Overloading The Washer<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/how-long-can-clothes-sit-in-the-washer\/#Conclusion\" title=\"Conclusion\">Conclusion<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/how-long-can-clothes-sit-in-the-washer\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" title=\"Frequently Asked Questions\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Long_Can_You_Leave_Wet_Clothes_In_The_Washer\"><\/span><a><\/a>How Long Can You Leave Wet Clothes In The Washer?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>According to experts, it&#8217;s still relatively safe to leave wet laundry in the washer for up to 12 hours after a wash cycle. However, this depends on several factors, including the type of the washer and the size of your laundry. After 12 hours, however, you may start to notice a musty smell. And even mold and mildew growth after 24 hours.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To extend the life of your clothes and for the good of your health, practice <strong>drying the clothes immediately <\/strong>after a wash cycle is finished.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Why?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When damp garments are left to sit in the washer for many hours, <strong>fungi like mildew and mold start growing. <\/strong>This could happen anywhere between 24 and 48 hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These fungi grow on<strong> living plants, damp clothes, and organic matter such as leather, wood, and paper<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They only require <strong>a food source such as damp clothes, humidity, and warmth to thrive; <\/strong>which are all available inside a washer full of wet clothes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Note:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The growth will be faster if there <strong>is mold and mildew<\/strong> already growing in different spots in the washing machine. These spots include <strong>the detergent drawer, lid, gaskets, seals, dispenser, and drainage pipe.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That\u2019s why\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Experts recommend leaving<strong> the washer\u2019s door open after each wash cycle.<\/strong> Also, you can<strong> run a bleach cycle once in a while <\/strong>when the machine is empty. <strong>&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They also recommend <strong>drying damp areas of a washing machine after use.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Note:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A <strong>normal wash cycle doesn\u2019t kill mildew and mold<\/strong> hiding in the washing machine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They can only be eliminated using a mold remover. This can be <strong>bleach, white vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, borax, or baking soda.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Happens_When_Wet_Clothes_Are_Left_In_The_Washer_For_Days\"><\/span>What Happens When Wet Clothes Are Left In The Washer For Days?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Clothes-in-the-washing-machine-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Clothes in the washing machine\" class=\"wp-image-3293\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Clothes-in-the-washing-machine-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Clothes-in-the-washing-machine-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Clothes-in-the-washing-machine-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Clothes-in-the-washing-machine-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Clothes-in-the-washing-machine.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Assuming you forgot your clothes in the washer for a few days &#8211;<strong> what would happen?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is usually common when going on<strong> a trip or weekend out of town. <\/strong>Sometimes, it\u2019s easy to forget wet clothes in the washer when you\u2019re in a hurry to leave.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If that happens\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In 24-48 hours, <strong>mildew and mold will start growing on the clothes<\/strong>. If left longer than this, the clothes and the interior of the machine<strong> will be fully covered with mold.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Unfortunately, this can <strong>ruin some of the clothes<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Note:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While it&#8217;s <strong>easier to get rid of the musty smell<\/strong>, removing mold and mildew stains is usually a harder challenge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_To_Salvage_Clothes_That_Have_Been_Forgotten_In_The_Washer\"><\/span><a><\/a>How To Salvage Clothes That Have Been Forgotten In The Washer<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you accidentally forget wet clothes in the washer for more than 12 hours, there are a few things you can do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However<strong>:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This will depend on <strong>how long the clothes were in the washer<\/strong> and the <strong>condition of the laundry.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>If it\u2019s been less than 12 hours, do a simple smell test.<\/strong> If there is no foul smell, <strong>there is no need for a rewash. <\/strong>Just dry them right away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If it\u2019s between <strong>12 and 24 hours <\/strong>then the clothes will probably<strong> have a foul smell. <\/strong>And you may need to rewash and freshen the load.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Below are a <strong>few tips and tricks on how to rescue clothes left in the washer.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Rewash_Using_Hot_Water\"><\/span>1. Rewash Using Hot Water<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Rewash-Using-Hot-Water-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Rewash Using Hot Water\" class=\"wp-image-3294\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Rewash-Using-Hot-Water-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Rewash-Using-Hot-Water-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Rewash-Using-Hot-Water-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Rewash-Using-Hot-Water.jpg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Every washer expert will tell you that <strong>hot water<\/strong> <strong>is a sure way to eliminate bacteria and fungi growing on damp clothes<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, this will not be easy if the clothes are mixed<strong>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is because <strong>different clothes have varying washing temperature limits<\/strong>; depending on the material. Therefore, the solution is to <strong>group similar clothing items and rewash them together.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Presoak_And_Clean_Using_A_Mildew_And_Mold_Remover\"><\/span>2. Presoak And Clean Using A Mildew And Mold Remover<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Now:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For <strong>garments that have been in the washer for too long<\/strong>, a presoak is necessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Before rewashing, you should <strong>pre-soak the clothes using a suitable amount of mold and mildew remover<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can use bleach, white vinegar, borax, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, or ammonia. However, you need to <strong>be careful not to damage your clothes even further<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Remember, <strong>some of these chemicals can discolor your clothes<\/strong>. That\u2019s why we recommend using white vinegar if your laundry is multicolored.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Anyway:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This step will make it easier to remove the fungi and the unpleasant smell. You can do this in a laundry basin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Use_A_Scented_Detergent\"><\/span>3. Use A Scented Detergent<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/washer-detergent-1024x768.jpeg\" alt=\"washer detergent\" class=\"wp-image-3148\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/washer-detergent-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/washer-detergent-300x225.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/washer-detergent-768x576.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/washer-detergent-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/simplyswider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/washer-detergent.jpeg 2000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s a bit obvious\u2026 But still worth mentioning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Scented laundry detergents contain <strong>fragrances that can help combat the funky smell;<\/strong> leaving your clothes smelling nice and fresh.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Air_Dry_The_Clothes\"><\/span>4. Air Dry The Clothes<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Now:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While drying the clothes in the dryer works, <strong>air drying them under direct sunlight and fresh air is way better. <\/strong>This is often a great remedy for musty-smelling clothes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The sun\u2019s ultraviolet rays work as a <strong>disinfectant<\/strong> and can help to dry out the fungi and any lingering musty smells.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_By_Step_On_How_To_Rewash_Clothes_Left_In_The_Washer\"><\/span><a><\/a>Step By Step On How To Rewash Clothes Left In The Washer<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_1_Unload_The_Washing_Machine\"><\/span><a><\/a>Step 1: Unload The Washing Machine.<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Now:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Start by <strong>wearing non-latex, rubber, or nitrile protective gloves and a face mask. <\/strong>Especially, if the load has been in the washer for a couple of days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Why the precaution?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Exposure to mold and mildew spores <strong>can cause respiratory infections. <\/strong>Sometimes,it can also <strong>cause allergic reactions<\/strong> in people with allergies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once, you\u2019ve put on protective wear\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Proceed to <strong>unload the laundry from the washing machine into a basket(s).<\/strong> As you unload the clothes, assess their condition. And try to separate the worst affected clothes from the rest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Then:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>First, check for <strong>visible mold or mildew growth. <\/strong>If you can\u2019t find any, then it\u2019s safe to conduct a <strong>smell test. <\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Pro Tip:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Never conduct a smell test on moldy or mildew-filled garments. That could cause serious health complications.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_2_Run_A_Hot_Cycle_to_Clean_the_Washer\"><\/span><a><\/a>Step 2: Run A Hot Cycle to Clean the Washer<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The next step is<strong> to clean the washer itself.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When the washer is empty, <strong>run a hot cycle or a tub cleaning cycle with some mold remover. <\/strong>This will help <strong>clean all the mildew and mold growth inside the machine <\/strong>before rewashing the clothes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This step is <strong>not necessary <\/strong>if the clothes have been in the washer for <strong>a little over 12 hours<\/strong>. But, if there is<strong> visible mold and an awful odor<\/strong>, it&#8217;s crucial to clean the washing machine first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_3_Separate_And_Pretreat_The_Clothes\"><\/span><a><\/a>Step 3: Separate And Pretreat The Clothes<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Now:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As the hot cycle runs, <strong>you can<\/strong> <strong>separate the clothes according to type and color and then pretreat them.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Pretreating refers to <strong>soaking the clothes in a basin or spraying the stains with a mold removal product. <\/strong>It involves letting the clothes sit for <strong>up to 30 minutes<\/strong> before loading them back in the washer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_4_Rewash_The_Clothes\"><\/span><a><\/a>Step 4: Rewash The Clothes<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Now:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s time to <strong>load each category of clothes back into the washing machine<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Washing separately<strong> allows you to use the right products and settings <\/strong>depending on the <strong>color and material of the clothes.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For instance, <strong>for whites and color-fast clothes, the ideal product is bleach<\/strong> to remove any discoloration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But, for colored clothes, we recommend using <strong>a combination of white vinegar and baking soda. <\/strong>And of course your preferred detergent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Safety tip:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Don\u2019t mix bleach with vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, or OxiClean. <\/strong>The only safe products to mix with bleach are baking soda, borax, detergent, and water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Next:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After loading the pretreated clothes in the washing machine, <strong>select the highest temperature that the clothes can handle <\/strong>without getting damaged.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The perfect water temperature to kill viruses, fungi, and bacteria from clothes is<strong> anything above 60\u00b0C<\/strong>. But you should read the label of each clothing item to avoid <strong>shrinking, fading, or heat damage.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s another quick tip\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some detergents are s<strong>pecifically made for removing mildew and mold stains<\/strong> from clothing. So, check with your favorite detergent brand to see if they have such a product.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can also use <strong>scented detergents <\/strong>to eliminate bad smells. However, be careful if you are allergic to certain fragrances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Luckily,<strong> vinegar and baking soda are also great odor-neutralizers.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_5_Air_Dry_the_clothes\"><\/span><a><\/a>Step 5: Air Dry the clothes<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Finally:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you can, <strong>air dry the clothes under direct sunlight <\/strong>to freshen them up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If the clothes are still musty even after rewashing, consider <strong>soaking them again using commercial mold cleaning products.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_To_Do_If_You_Keep_Forgetting_Clothes_In_The_Washer\"><\/span><a><\/a>What To Do If You Keep Forgetting Clothes In The Washer<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Now:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are <strong>always forgetting <\/strong>clothes in the washer, there is a smart<strong> solution for you.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Which is?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Go for a washing machine with an extended cycle.<\/strong> This function is also called <strong>Fresh Hold or Extended Hold <\/strong>depending on the brand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Get this:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A washing machine with this feature will keep on spinning the load in regular intervals until you unload them.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This keeps the <strong>load fresh for up to 16 or 24 hours. <\/strong>However, this tiny bundle of convenience is not only expensive to get but also a bit costlier to run.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Laundry_Stinks_After_Washing_Or_Has_Unknown_Stains\"><\/span><a><\/a>Laundry Stinks After Washing Or Has Unknown Stains<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Now:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the beginning, I said <strong>wet clothes can stay fresh for up to 12 hours in a washer.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is not always the case. Sometimes, clothes c<strong>an<\/strong> be<strong> smelly even after being in the washer for just a few hours\u2026. <\/strong>Why?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some possible reasons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Some_of_the_Garments_Were_Smelly_and_Moldy\"><\/span><a><\/a>1. Some of the Garments Were Smelly and Moldy<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Your laundry will get smelly <strong>if some of the clothing items were already smelly and moldy<\/strong> before washing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is very common with <strong>dam<\/strong>p <strong>towels, gym clothes, and swimming suits.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The trick is to <strong>air any damp clothing<\/strong> until laundry day. <strong>Don\u2019t put it in the laundry basket<\/strong> with the rest of the clothes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another trick would be to put damp clothes in an a<strong>ntimicrobial waterproof sack.<\/strong> This prevents the development of mildew and mold.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Your_Washing_Machine_Has_Mildew_And_Mold\"><\/span><a><\/a>2. Your Washing Machine Has Mildew And Mold<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Your clothes will be smelly if there is mold and mildew growing in the washer.<\/strong> As I mentioned earlier, washing machines provide <strong>a thriving environment<\/strong> for mold and mildew.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If that\u2019s the case, deep clean your washer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_You_Are_Overloading_The_Washer\"><\/span><a><\/a>3. You Are Overloading The Washer<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When your washer is <strong>overpacked, <\/strong>there is no space for the clothes to move around. This also means there is <strong>only a small surface area for the detergent and water to work on the clothes.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When that happens\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The clothes will end up <strong>smelly and not thoroughly clean<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span><a><\/a>Conclusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>And that\u2019s everything you need to know about clothes sitting in a washer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But, remember, while we recommend drying as soon as the wash cycle is done, <strong>wet laundry can safely sit in a washer for 8 to 12 hours.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Thereafter:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>It\u2019ll start to <strong>develop an odor<\/strong> that grows stronger with time.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>After 24 hours, <strong>mold and mildew might start growing<\/strong>; mainly, because of the warmth and humidity from the clothes inside the washer.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Although, this growth might happen sooner if there was mold and mildew present in the washer already.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>To salvage your laundry, use scented detergents while rewashing to remove bad smells. And in case there\u2019s mold or mildew, use a suitable amount and type of remover.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Got it, right?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>I hope this post has been helpful. <\/strong>And that I have answered all your questions on how to treat and freshen clothes left in the washer for long.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have more questions or comments, <strong>leave them in the comment section below<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block schema-faq-accordion\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1672663291508\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How Long Can Clothes Sit In The Washer Before They Smell?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"><strong>Wet clothes can sit safely in the washer for up to 8-12 hours before they get smelly and moldy<\/strong>. However, the clothes will smell faster if the machine already has mildew and mold growth; especially, during hot weather.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1672663302917\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What Happens If Your Clothes Sit In The Washer Too Long?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">If you leave your wet clothes in the washer for too long, <strong>mildew and mold might start growing. <\/strong>This is because a washing machine provides all the necessary conditions for mold growth. And if left for too long, the <strong>mold might stain or destroy your fabrics.<\/strong><\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Find out how long it&#8217;s safe to leave wet clothes in the washer. Plus, when it&#8217;s necessary to rewash and how to salvage clothes left in the washer for too long. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":3292,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[18],"tags":[],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v22.0 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>How Long Can You Leave Wet Clothes In The Washer? - SimplySwider.com<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Find out how long it&#039;s safe to leave wet clothes in the washer. 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