Leaving your washing machine door open overnight is generally not considered bad or harmful. In fact, it can be a good practice for certain reasons:
Preventing Odors: Keeping the door open allows air to circulate inside the washing machine, which helps prevent the buildup of musty odors caused by dampness and leftover water.
Mold and Mildew Prevention: Leaving the door open after use helps to dry out the interior, reducing the chances of mold and mildew growth. Mold and mildew thrive in dark, damp environments, so allowing the drum and gasket to air out can minimize these issues.
Extended Gasket Life: The rubber gasket that seals the door can degrade over time when exposed to moisture. Allowing it to dry out can prolong its life and prevent leaks.
Energy Efficiency: If your washing machine has a residual water drainage system, leaving the door open can help any remaining water evaporate, potentially reducing energy consumption when you use the machine again.
However, there are a couple of considerations to keep in mind:
Safety: If you have small children or pets at home, an open washing machine door could be a potential hazard. Make sure to keep the door open in a way that it can't be easily closed accidentally.
Space and Aesthetics: Leaving the washing machine door open might not be ideal if it takes up too much space or disrupts the aesthetics of your laundry area.
If you prefer to keep the washing machine door closed when it's not in use due to safety or space concerns, you can still minimize odor and mold issues by wiping down the inside of the drum and gasket with a clean, dry cloth and leaving the door ajar for a short time after each use to allow the moisture to evaporate.