How Long Can Wet Clothes Stay in Washer

We’ve all experienced it: You load your washer with laundry, add detergent, and include the Lysol^® Laundry Disinfectant—to kill 99.99% of viruses and bacteria that detergents leave behind^*—but something happens.

Maybe you got busy, ran errands, or simply lost track of time, which caused you to forget about the load in the washing machine. It’s a common scenario and can happen to anyone.

Many of us have wondered whether leaving clothes in the washer causes musty odours, bacterial growth, or fabric damage, or if it's safe to dry them with a dryer or clothesline.

This article will discuss how long wet clothes can stay in a washer without the need to run the load through a second cycle.

How long can wet clothes safely stay in the washer?

Ideally, most people agree that clothes shouldn’t be left in the wash for more than 8 to 12 hours. After this time, moisture combined with warm, enclosed conditions inside the machine creates an ideal environment for bacteria, mold, and mildew to grow.

Promptly removing clothes from the washer after the cycle helps prevent musty odors and keeps fabrics in good shape. Try to transfer clothes to the dryer or clothesline as soon as possible for the best results.

How to tell if wet clothes have gone bad?

Wet clothes left in the washer for too long often develop a distinct musty, sour, or pungent odour, indicating bacterial and mildew growth. You may also notice visible mildew spots or discoloration on fabrics. If clothes feel unusually slimy or sticky, that’s another warning sign.

Wearing such clothes may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, so it’s important to recognize these signs before using the garments again.

What to do if you forgot your clothes in the washer?

If clothes have been sitting for less than 8–12 hours, a quick rinse and spin cycle may freshen them up. For clothes left on for longer periods or with visible mildew, wash them again using hot water and a high-quality detergent.

Make sure to add Lysol^® Laundry Disinfectant, a laundry additive, to help sanitize clothes by killing 99.99% of odour-causing bacteria and viruses*. It can be used on both white and colored fabrics and is effective in both standard and HE (high-efficiency) machines.

^*vs detergent alone; Always read and follow the label.

FAQs

Can germs grow on damp clothes left in the washer?

Yes, bacteria and fungi can grow on wet clothes left sitting. Use a laundry disinfectant like Lysol^® Laundry Disinfectant to kill 99.99% of bacteria and viruses to keep clothes fresh^*.

Why do wet clothes smell bad in the washer?

Leaving wet clothes in the washer too long can cause musty odours due to mold and mildew growth. Always transfer laundry promptly or rewash with a disinfectant if needed.

Is it safe to wear clothes that smell musty?

No, wearing musty clothes can trigger allergies and respiratory issues due to the presence of bacteria and mildew spores.

Can I just dry musty-smelling clothes without rewashing?

No, even though drying helps reduce musty smells in clothes, it is not always enough to eliminate the odor, especially if it’s deeply embedded.

How can I avoid forgetting clothes in the washer?

To prevent forgetting clothes in the washer, set a timer or use a laundry app with reminders. Establish a routine to promptly unload after each wash and utilize the end-of-cycle signal on your washing machine.