The likelihood of a laundry machine growing botulism (Clostridium botulinum) from wet clothes left untouched for a couple of weeks is extremely low. Botulism is a severe form of food poisoning caused by the toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. This bacterium is commonly found in soil and can grow and produce toxins in low-oxygen environments, such as improperly canned or preserved food.
It is highly unlikely for botulism to grow in a laundry machine under normal circumstances. The laundry machine is not an environment conducive to the growth of this bacterium for several reasons:
Lack of Suitable Nutrients: Botulism bacteria require specific nutrients to grow, which are typically not present in fabrics or laundry detergent residues.
Presence of Oxygen: Clostridium botulinum is an anaerobic bacterium, meaning it thrives in environments with low or no oxygen. A laundry machine is not airtight, and oxygen is usually present, preventing the growth of anaerobic bacteria.
Continuous Water Flow: A laundry machine's drainage system and frequent use prevent standing water from accumulating for extended periods, reducing the possibility of bacterial growth.
While the environment inside a laundry machine may not be conducive to botulism growth, it's still a good practice to promptly remove wet clothes from the machine after the washing cycle is complete. Leaving wet clothes in the machine for an extended period can lead to unpleasant odors and potential mold or mildew growth in certain conditions, especially in humid environments.
If you ever suspect that there is a contamination risk with your laundry machine or laundry practices, it's essential to clean and disinfect the machine thoroughly. Regular maintenance, following the manufacturer's guidelines, and allowing the machine to dry out between loads will help prevent any potential issues.