How to Get Smell Out of Laundry Left in Washer: Effective Tips to Eliminate Odors from Your Laundry

Forgetting laundry in the washer happens to the best of us. That musty, sour smell that develops after wet clothes sit for too long is caused by mildew and bacteria. The good news: You can usually banish the odor and rescue your clothes with a few practical steps. First, immediately rewash your laundry using hot water and add one cup of white vinegar directly to the drum—this natural deodorizer breaks down mildew and neutralizes odors. Avoid adding detergent for this cycle; let the vinegar work on its own. If the smell lingers, run a second wash with baking soda (about half a cup) sprinkled over the clothing. For persistent odors in heavy fabrics, a longer soak cycle may help. Once clean, dry garments promptly—either in the dryer or, better yet, hanging them outside to air dry, as sunlight is a natural disinfectant. For extra peace of mind, routinely wipe down the washer’s gasket and drum to prevent future smells.

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As a designer, I know fresh, clean-smelling textiles can completely transform the feeling of a room. If laundry odors have you rethinking your utility room, consider evaluating the space's ventilation. A well-planned laundry area with proper airflow reduces humidity and the chance of mildew. If you’re exploring utility room updates or envision a layout that streamlines the laundry process and prevents these issues, testing out design ideas in a room planner tool offers a visual way to optimize your space—making airy, pleasant laundry days the norm.

FAQ

Q: Why does laundry develop a bad smell if left in the washer?

A: When wet clothes sit for prolonged periods, bacteria and mildew grow, creating a musty or sour odor.

Q: Can I just dry smelly laundry to remove the odor?

A: Drying may set the smell into the fabric, making it harder to remove. Always rewash first.

Q: Is vinegar safe for all fabrics?

A: Vinegar is generally safe, but check care labels for delicate or specialty materials.

Q: How do I prevent future laundry odors?

A: Promptly transfer wet clothes to the dryer, keep the washer door open for airflow, and regularly clean the washer.

Q: What if my washer itself is smelly?

A: Run a hot cycle with vinegar and baking soda (no clothes inside) to clean the washer drum and remove lingering odors.