Forgot laundry in the washing machine: And now?

How Long Can Laundry Stay in the Washing Machine?

There is no single rule. Time alone is not the deciding factor. Several conditions play a role:

• the wash temperature used

• how clean the washing machine is

• the room temperature

• the type of fabric

A general guideline:

• Up to around 2 hours: usually no problem

• 6–12 hours: often still fine – always check the smell

• Overnight or longer: a smell check is essential

Rule of thumb: The warmer and more humid the environment, the faster odour-causing bacteria can develop.

The Most Important Step: The Smell Test

Before doing anything else, smell the laundry. This determines what to do next.

Laundry smells neutral or fresh

• It can be hung up or tumble-dried immediately

• Shake garments out well and allow them to dry with plenty of air circulation

Laundry smells slightly musty

• A rewash is recommended

• Often a short cycle at a higher temperature is sufficient

Laundry smells strongly musty

• The laundry must be washed again

• Otherwise, the smell will usually remain even after drying

Rewashing Laundry: How to Remove Musty Odours

If rewashing is necessary, keep the following in mind:

The right temperature

• 60°C or higher, if the fabric allows it

• Cotton and durable fabrics usually tolerate higher temperatures well

• For delicate items: 40°C plus a hygiene detergent

Detergent and additives

• Use your regular detergent at the recommended dosage

• Optionally, a hygiene detergent can help

• Household remedies such as vinegar should be used with caution and are not suitable for all machines or fabrics

Especially for high-quality garments, always check the care label to protect fibres and fit.

If the Odour Keeps Coming Back: Check the Washing Machine

Musty-smelling laundry is often not a laundry problem, but a machine issue.

What helps:

• Run an empty cycle at 90°C

• Clean the rubber door seal thoroughly

• Rinse the detergent drawer

• Leave the door and drawer open after washing so the machine can dry completely

This prevents bacteria and residue from building up inside the machine.

Can You Simply Dry Musty Laundry?

No – that’s not a good idea.
Drying laundry that smells musty without rewashing often “locks in” the odour, making it much harder to remove later.

How to Avoid Forgetting Your Laundry in the Future

A few simple habits can help prevent this from happening again:

• Activate the end-of-cycle signal on your washing machine

• Set a timer on your phone

• Avoid starting laundry late in the evening

• Loosen and air the laundry shortly after the cycle ends

• Clean your washing machine regularly

Quick Checklist: Forgot Your Laundry – What Now?

• Check the smell

• neutral → dry as usual

• musty → rewash

• use the highest suitable temperature

• clean the washing machine if needed

• set up reminders for next time

Conclusion

Forgetting laundry in the washing machine is not a disaster – as long as you respond correctly. The smell test is the key decision point, followed by fabric-appropriate care and a clean washing machine. This way, your garments stay fresh, hygienic and long-lasting.