Wet laundry forgotten in the basket for two days

Short answer: Damp and warmth give bacteria a free run. Wash immediately at the highest temperature the fabric allows, ideally with vinegar, and dry it fully.

What happens in two days

Bacteria and mould need moisture, warmth and something to feed on. All three exist in a basket of wet laundry. After a day the smell starts, and after two you can get small dark spots that are hard to remove.

Wash straight away

Shake the laundry out and wash it on its own at the highest temperature the fabric allows with a cup of white vinegar in the softener drawer. Run an extra rinse. If the smell remains, repeat with bicarbonate of soda in the detergent drawer.

When there are dark spots

The spots are mould and sit inside the fibre. Soak the garment in oxygen bleach for a couple of hours and wash again. On white it often works, on coloured fabric a faint shadow often remains. See bamboo t-shirts for men.

How to avoid a repeat

Set a reminder when you start the machine, or run the wash in the evening and hang it in the morning. Never leave laundry in the drum with the door closed. See bamboo towels and bamboo bedding.

Frequently asked questions

Can the clothes be used again

Almost always if it is only a smell. With mould spots it depends on the colour and how long it stood.

Does drying without washing help

No. The smell returns as soon as the fabric gets damp again.

Can mould in clothing be a health problem

Heavy mould should be washed out or the item discarded. If you are unsure or have symptoms, ask your doctor.