How Long Can Clothes Sit in the Washer Before Smelling?
Laundry is a necessary evil, but there is a right way and wrong way to do it. Knowing how long you can leave clothes and bedding in the washer can help you avoid smelly clothes and stained fabrics. Here’s what you need to know to keep your laundry smelling and looking its best.
How Long Is Too Long?
The ideal amount of time to leave laundry in the washer is no more than two hours. Leaving your clothes and fabrics in the washer too long will not only cause them to smell, but can also cause them to start to deteriorate due to mildew, mold, and bacteria growth. Two hours is an optimal amount of time for a laundry cycle, so it is best to remove them as soon as the cycle is complete.
What Can I Do for Smelly Laundry?
If you find your laundry is sitting in the washer too long, there are some steps you can take to help revive it.
- Wash with White Vinegar: Add 1/4-1 cup of white vinegar to your wash cycle to help kill off odors caused from mildew or bacteria growth.
- Wash in Hot Water:Selecting the hot water setting on your machine when washing smelly items can help sanitise them and kill off any bacteria or mold growth.
- Use Baking Soda:Add 1/2-1 cup of baking soda to your wash cycle to help neutralise any odors.
- Air Dry:Hang your clothes outside on a sunny day to help lift any lingering odors.
Conclusion
It is best practice to remove clothes from the washer as soon as possible to prevent any odors from developing. However, if you find your laundry is getting a bit too stinky, there are some simple steps you can take to revive it. Follow the steps outlined above to keep your laundry smelling fresh and looking great.