Leaving clothes in the washing machine for a few days is generally not recommended. While it may not cause immediate harm, it can lead to various issues over time:
Odor and mildew: Wet clothes left sitting in a closed, dark environment can develop a musty smell and promote the growth of mildew and bacteria, which can be difficult to remove from the clothes and the washing machine.
Stains and discoloration: Certain fabrics and colors may become prone to staining or fading when left wet for extended periods, especially if exposed to direct sunlight.
Damage to clothes: Over time, the prolonged exposure to water and detergent can weaken the fabric fibers, causing the clothes to wear out faster.
Hygiene concerns: If the clothes were heavily soiled before being left in the washing machine, any bacteria or germs present in the clothes could multiply, potentially causing hygiene issues.
To prevent these problems, it's best to remove the clothes from the washing machine as soon as the cycle is completed. If, for some reason, you are unable to take them out immediately, consider using a delay start function to run the machine closer to the time you can retrieve the clothes. If you forget about the laundry, rewash the clothes before drying them to ensure freshness and cleanliness.