How long wet laundry can be left in the washing machine and what are the consequences

Any modern washing machine has a delayed wash mode: you can leave the laundry overnight and take it out and hang it up in the morning. This means that the laundry will stay in the closed drum for some time. But in this case, an unpleasant odor may appear over time, which can only be eliminated with a new wash. That's why many people are interested in the question of how long wet laundry can be left in the washing machine.

Sante Plus magazine says that the habit of leaving wet clothes in the drum is very bad. It not only harms the fabrics but can also lead to a breakdown of the washing machine.

How can it damage the machine?

Most manufacturers advise you to take out clean clothes and laundry immediately after the wash cycle is complete. This is because damp fabric creates conditions for the development of mold and bacteria inside the mechanism. This "filling" is not good for the sensitive electronics of the device in particular.

To prevent the problem, wet clothes should be removed as soon as possible. You should also leave the door ajar after washing. This will help dry the appliance properly and ensure good ventilation.

Can clothes left in the drum get moldy?

The short answer is yes. If the clothes are left in the drum for a long time, at best they will become stinky and it will be very difficult to get rid of this smell. You will have to wash everything again, which is a waste of resources.

It is especially true if the laundry is left inside the machine for a long time as it can become infested with mold spores. In this case, the fabric will develop characteristic stains and will need very serious treatment.

Why does the laundry smell bad after washing?

Sometimes, however, machine-washed clothes smell bad even right after the cycle is complete. This can be due not only to moisture but also to dirt accumulation on the internal parts of your washing machine. These are usually grease particles, lint, and other residues that clog certain components. That's why it's always important to check your clothes thoroughly before washing, empty all pockets, sort them properly, and choose a pre-soak to remove certain stains.

How long can I leave my clothes in the machine?

There is no definite answer here as much depends on the type of fabric, the degree of previous contamination, the washing mode, the type of detergent, the condition of the machine, and even the temperature and humidity in the room. However, all experts agree on one thing: the sooner you get wet clothes out and send them to dry, the better.

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