If you have finished using the washing machine but don't have time right away to empty it, it's generally better to leave the washing machine door closed until you can empty it. Here's why:
Preserve moisture and freshness: Keeping the washing machine door closed helps retain the moisture and prevents the clothes from drying out. This is particularly important if you're using a front-loading washing machine, as the door seal creates an airtight environment inside. If the clothes dry out while still in the machine, it may lead to wrinkles and make it harder to remove certain stains later.
Prevent odors and mildew: When the washing machine door is left open, it allows air to circulate inside the drum, which can lead to dampness and the growth of mold or mildew on your clothes. This can cause unpleasant odors and even affect your washing machine's performance over time.
Avoid dust and debris: Leaving the washing machine door open can also expose the inside of the drum to dust and debris, which may settle on your freshly washed clothes.
Safety consideration: If you have pets or small children in the house, leaving the washing machine door open could pose a safety risk as they might climb inside or get their hands stuck.
If you know you won't be able to empty the washing machine immediately, but you're concerned about the clothes staying wet for too long, you can run a short spin cycle without adding any additional water or detergent. This will help drain excess water and reduce the moisture level in the clothes.
Ultimately, it's best to empty the washing machine as soon as you can to hang or fold the clothes and prevent them from sitting in a damp environment for too long. But if that's not immediately possible, keeping the door closed until you can attend to it is generally the better option to maintain the quality of your clothes and the washing machine itself.