Leaving Wet Clothes in the Washer for Too Long: What You Need to Know
Leaving wet clothes in the washer for too long can cause a lot of problems and potential damage. Cotton, polyester, and polyblend fabrics will soon start to develop an odor and mildew, leading to irreversible fabric damage. Here are a few important facts about leaving wet clothes in the washer for too long:
The Time Frame You Should Work With
It is recommended to take wet clothes out of the washer as soon as they are done spinning. This is especially important if you do not plan on putting the clothes in the dryer right away.
The Risk of Leaving Wet Clothes in the Washer Too Long
Leaving wet clothes in the washer too long can lead to:
- Odors: Wet clothes will start to develop an unpleasant odor.
- Mildew: Clothes can start to form mildew or even mold.
- Damage: The fabrics can start to deteriorate or the colors can run from all of the moisture.
Preventing Damage When Leaving Wet Clothes in the Washer
There are a few steps you can take to help prevent damage to your clothing when leaving it in the washer for too long:
- Ensure the washer lid is closed.
- Allow clothes to spin for at least one or two extra cycles.
- Let clothes hang to dry or put them in a clothes dryer right away.
- Do not overstuff the washer.
Although it is best to take your wet clothes out of the washer as soon as they are done spinning, it is possible to leave them in for a short period of time before they start to develop an odor or mildew. Be sure to follow the steps above to prevent any unnecessary damage and enjoy clean, fresh smelling laundry.