If you’re like most people, there has been at least one time when you’ve forgotten to transfer clothes from the washer to the dryer. You may be wondering how long you can leave laundry in the washer before you need to rewash it. The simple answer is 12 hours. Heavy items, hot or humid summer conditions, and moisture-trapping front-load washers can reduce that window by at least 4 hours. Washing with hot water, bleach and even scent boosters might sound like it will buy you a little extra time, but nothing beats moving your laundry to the dryer promptly. If you happen to leave it long enough to have that sour scent and a re-wash is a must, make sure you put a cup of white vinegar in with your laundry detergent. That will ensure that the sour smell is removed completely.
