How Long Can You Leave Laundry in the Washer : Avoiding the Musty Smell and Maintaining Freshness

Leaving laundry in the washer is something most of us do occasionally, whether because life gets busy or we simply forget. But how long can you safely leave wet clothes in the washing machine before they develop an unpleasant odor or, worse, mold and mildew? The consensus among cleaning experts is that laundry should not sit in the washer for more than 8–12 hours. After this period, moisture trapped in the clothes combined with a dark, enclosed environment provides the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and mold.

It's best to remove laundry promptly—ideally within 30 minutes to an hour after the cycle ends. If that’s not possible, a delay of up to 8 hours is generally safe, but anything beyond that increases the risk of sour smells and musty odors setting in. When clothes are forgotten in the washer overnight or longer, rewashing with hot water and a cup of white vinegar can help eliminate smells and bacteria.

As a designer, I see laundry rooms as crucial hubs of cleanliness and efficiency within the home. When designing such spaces, I always consider workflow and encourage the use of reminders—whether digital notifications from smart washers or a simple wall clock—to prevent laundry from being left behind. I also emphasize the importance of proper ventilation and thoughtful placement of washers and hampers to streamline the process and maintain freshness. In fact, integrating smart appliances with design-forward solutions can transform the overall function and feel of your laundry space. If you’re rethinking your own laundry area setup or planning a renovation, exploring innovative tools such as a home designer for laundry spaces can be a game changer.

Tips 1:

To prevent mildew, always leave the washer door open for a while after unloading laundry to let the drum dry out thoroughly. If left closed, residual moisture can foster bacteria growth even after you’ve removed clothes.

FAQ

Q: What happens if I leave my clothes in the washer for over 12 hours?

A: Clothes may develop a musty odor and become a breeding ground for mold and mildew, requiring rewashing to restore freshness.

Q: Is it safe to use clothes directly after they’ve been sitting in the washer for a day?

A: It's not recommended; bacteria and mildew can develop. Rewash them for best results.

Q: How do I get mildew smells out of laundry?

A: Rewash the clothes with hot water, detergent, and a cup of white vinegar or baking soda to neutralize odors.

Q: Will leaving the washer door open help?

A: Yes, leaving the door open lets the drum dry and helps prevent the growth of mold and bacteria.

Q: Are there any smart appliances that can help avoid this problem?

A: Many modern washers offer end-of-cycle notifications or delayed start features to help manage laundry more efficiently and prevent leaving loads behind.