How Long Can Wet Laundry Sit in the Washer Before It Smells?

We’ve all done it. You toss a load of laundry into the washer, start the cycle, and then… life happens. Hours pass, maybe even the entire day. Suddenly you remember — the clothes! Still sitting wet inside the machine. But is it too late? Do you need to rewash the whole load?

Let’s talk about what really happens when clean clothes stay wet for too long — and when you must hit that “Start” button again.

So, What’s the Safe Window?

Most laundry experts agree: wet clothes can sit in the washer for about 8 to 12 hours before they start developing a musty smell or mildew. That gives you a decent grace period if you get distracted or pulled away.

But climate matters — if you live somewhere humid or your washer has a sealed door with poor airflow, mildew might start forming in as little as 6 hours.

What Happens If You Wait Too Long?

When wet clothes sit too long:

• Bacteria and mildew begin to grow

• Odors start developing — that familiar “wet towel” smell

• Fabrics can feel slimy or damp even after drying

• Your washer may develop lingering smells too

Unfortunately, throwing smelly clothes into the dryer won’t fix it. It might even bake the odor in.

When You Should Rewash

If it’s been more than 12 hours — or if your nose tells you something's off — it’s best to rewash the load using warm or hot water (check the label!) and possibly add:

• 1 cup of white vinegar (to neutralize odors)

• Baking soda (to help deodorize)

• Or a specialized laundry sanitizer

How to Avoid This in the First Place

• Set a timer or phone reminder when you start a load

• Use your washer’s “fresh hold” or “tumble” cycle if it has one

• Leave the door open between loads to let air circulate

• If you’re heading out and laundry isn’t dry-ready yet, lay clothes flat or hang them temporarily

Final Thought

Forgetting laundry is a universal experience — but now you know the window. If you catch it in time, you’re golden. If not, a quick refresh is better than wearing that “something’s not quite right” scent all day.