Avoid This Common Laundry Mistake That Could Ruin Your Clothes
Leaving wet laundry in the washing machine overnight can cause unpleasant odors, stains, and bacterial growth. Learn how to protect your favorite clothes with expert tips.
If you've ever left clothes sitting wet in the washing machine drum, you probably know the frustration that follows. If not, take a few minutes to learn how to keep your garments fresh and lasting longer.
Many people overlook the importance of reading appliance manuals before use. Ignoring basic guidelines can shorten your machine's lifespan and affect its performance. This is especially true for washing machines, which we rely on daily. Spending a couple of minutes understanding how they work can save you time and trouble.
Experts advise against leaving damp clothes in the washing machine for several hours or overnight. Make a habit of setting a timer to remind yourself to promptly remove laundry and prevent damage.
First, the most unpleasant consequence: prolonged moisture leads to a strong, musty odor that’s hard to eliminate.
Second, your clothes may develop stains and faded patches. This can also happen if you mix light and dark fabrics or use too much detergent. To avoid this, wash light and colored clothes separately, use a pre-wash cycle when needed, and follow detergent dosage recommendations carefully.
Third, wet clothes left inside the machine become breeding grounds for bacteria and mold. If laundry stays in the drum for more than 10-12 hours, mold can start to form, damaging fabrics and posing health risks.
If you’ve already left clothes overnight and want to save them, don’t immediately remove or dry them, as the odor might spread throughout your home.
Instead, run another wash cycle at temperatures above 60°C (140°F) to disinfect and refresh your garments before drying. Sunlight is ideal for drying, as UV rays naturally kill bacteria and help remove stubborn stains.
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