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Tuesday, February 11, 2025

What to Do If You Left Your Laundry Overnight: Essential Tips

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Forgetting laundry can lead to musty odors, but there are effective ways to handle it. Start by assessing the smell; if it’s faint, air it out, but if strong, rewash using a hot cycle with detergent. If musty odors persist, it’s crucial to clean the washing machine by wiping down the drum and seals, cleaning the detergent drawer, and running a high-temperature cycle with a cleaner. These steps will keep your clothes fresh and your machine functioning well.

We’ve all been there: you toss a load of laundry into the washing machine, hit start, and then get caught up in your day. Later, you open the machine to find your clothes have developed a musty odor. But don’t fret! Most of the time, you won’t need to wash them again.

What to Do When You Forget Your Laundry

**Step 1: Perform the Smell Test** Start with a smell test. Take your forgotten laundry, give it a shake, and take a whiff. If it just feels wrinkled but has no odor, you can hang it outside to air out. However, if the musty scent is strong, a rewash is required.

**Step 2: Rewash at a High Temperature** Next, fire up your washing machine and opt for a hot wash cycle. Setting the temperature to at least 60 degrees is essential to eliminate any lingering bacteria. Don’t forget to add liquid detergent for a thorough clean. Once the cycle is done, sniff your laundry again. If it smells fresh, you’re good to go! If not, repeat the washing process.

Woke Up to Musty Laundry?

If you find your laundry smelling musty the next morning, it indicates that moisture has lingered too long. This unpleasant odor is not just an annoyance; it can also mean bacteria and germs have begun to multiply in your clothes. Depending on the time left in the washing machine, you might even spot mold.

Additionally, running your washing machine empty at a high temperature is crucial. This practice helps eliminate any germs and bacteria that could affect future laundry loads.

How to Clean Your Washing Machine

Cleaning your washing machine is just as important as dealing with the laundry itself. Follow these simple steps to keep your machine in top shape:

  • Interior Cleaning: Wipe down the drum, seals, and detergent drawers with a damp cloth and mild cleaning solution. Pay special attention to the door and rubber seal, as these areas often collect dirt and mold.
  • Detergent Drawer Cleaning: Remove the detergent drawer and thoroughly clean it with water and a gentle cleaner. Make sure to eliminate all traces of detergent and fabric softener to prevent mold buildup.
  • Run a Cleaning Cycle: To disinfect the machine, run an empty cycle at high temperatures (over 60 degrees Celsius) using a specialized washing machine cleaner or vinegar. This step will help to remove deposits and odors.

By following these tips, you can ensure your laundry stays fresh and your washing machine operates efficiently.

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