Let’s be honest—we’ve all done it: start a load of laundry, get distracted, and come back hours later to clothes that smell… not-so-fresh. Leaving wet clothes sitting in the washer can lead to mildew and mold, creating unpleasant odors and even potential health risks. So, how long is too long?
How Much Time Do You Really Have?
Ideally, clothes should go straight into the dryer or onto a drying rack. But life happens. Laundry experts generally agree that clothes can safely sit in the washer for 8–10 hours without developing a bad smell. You might stretch that to 12 hours if you check that the clothes still smell fresh before drying.
Beyond 12 hours, especially in warm or humid environments, mildew or sour odors are likely to appear, and it’s usually safest to rewash.
Quick Guide:
- Less than 8 hours: no problem
- 8–12 hours: sniff test + consider conditions
- More than 12 hours: rewash recommended
Why Wet Clothes Start Smelling
Your washing machine is a prime environment for bacteria: dark, wet, warm, and low on airflow. Residue from soap and dirt on clothes feeds these microbes, and the first warning sign is usually a musty or sour smell. Front-loading machines are more prone to this issue because they trap moisture inside, giving mildew a perfect home.
Factors That Affect How Fast Clothes Smell
- Room Temperature & Humidity: The warmer and more humid, the quicker odors appear.
- Type of Washer: Front loaders trap moisture, while top loaders allow more air circulation.
- Load Size & Fabric Type: Thick towels, sweatshirts, and jeans hold water longer, giving mildew time to grow. Synthetic fabrics and athletic wear can also trap oils and odors.
- How Dirty the Clothes Are: Post-gym clothes or muddy kids’ clothes can develop smells faster.
How to Decide If Rewashing is Necessary
- Smell Test: If clothes smell fresh, go ahead and dry them.
- Slightly Off: If there’s a faint “off” scent, a short rinse/spin or quick wash should do the trick.
- Strong Musty Smell: Rewash immediately with detergent. For loads left 24+ hours, or if you see discoloration or spots, use hot water if safe for the fabric.
Fixing Musty Laundry
If your clothes smell musty, rewash them ASAP. Adding ½ cup baking soda or white vinegar (avoid vinegar with delicate fabrics) can help eliminate stubborn odors. Ensure clothes dry completely, ideally in sunlight, which naturally kills bacteria. Using too much detergent can leave residue, worsening smells, so less is more next time.
Preventing Mildew and Odors in the Future
- Set a phone alarm or use your washer’s cycle-end alert.
- Consider using the delay-start feature to time your laundry better.
- Don’t overload the washer; clothes need space to rinse and spin properly.
- Keep the washer door/lid open between loads to allow airflow.
- Clean the gasket occasionally, especially on front loaders.
- Run a hot cleaning cycle monthly or use a washing machine cleaning tablet to prevent build-up.
FAQs
Q1: Is it safe to leave clothes in the washer overnight?
Yes, up to 8–12 hours is usually fine, as long as they still smell fresh. Musty clothes need a rewash.
Q2: Can leaving wet clothes too long damage fabric?
It won’t ruin the clothes but can cause wrinkles, minor wear, and potential dye transfer in mixed loads.
Q3: What if the clothes dried in the washer?
If they’re dry and don’t smell, you’re lucky! You can lightly steam or dampen them to remove wrinkles before wearing.
By understanding timing, odors, and proper care, you can prevent that dreaded musty smell and keep your laundry fresh and clean every time.
