What will happen if I put soaked clothes in the dryer?

Author: Nikko Kreiger  |  Last update: Friday, February 20, 2026

You should always avoid putting soaking wet clothes into a clothes dryer. Clothes that are soaking wet or dripping are heavy and this added weight in a standard dryer could damage it as it spins the load around.

Is it okay to put soaking wet clothes in the dryer?

Yes, you can put soaking wet clothes in the dryer, but it is not recommended. Here are some important considerations to keep in mind: Potential Damage to the Dryer: Soaking wet clothes are heavy, and the added weight can strain the internal mechanisms of the dryer, potentially causing damage (1).

What happens if you leave wet clothes in the dryer?

Leaving wet clothes in a dryer for too long can cause the clothes to become moldy or mildewed. The moisture in the clothes will cause a build-up of moisture in the dryer, creating the perfect environment for mold and mildew to form.

Is a dryer ruined if it gets wet?

While the electronic display may still function, the essential parts responsible for the dryer's operation, such as the motor or heating element, may have been affected. It is crucial to avoid operating any electronic device when it is wet, as this can lead to short circuits or corrosion.

Can wet clothes to dry clothes be reversed?

In case of wet clothes to dry clothes, we can make dry clothes wet by soaking them in water again so it is a reversed change.

LG washer dryer Fixed: Clothes Still Wet After Drying.

What to do if your clothes are still wet after drying?

A good airflow is the key for a dryer to work properly. If your clothes are still wet after a drying cycle it could mean that the Air Vent is clogged. To fix this problem, you will have to unplug the dryer and disconnect it from the vent. Once everything is disconnected, it's time to vacuum the vent.

Can you fix water damaged clothes?

Restoration Tips

Machine-washable items with mild damage can be washed with laundry detergent and vinegar to help kill germs and neutralize odors. Contact a professional water-damage restorer like Flair Cleaners for items that are not machine-washable or are severely damaged.

Can a dryer catch fire if clothes are too wet?

Stuffing too many wet clothes or bedding into a dryer can cause an excess of lint to accumulate. Since lint buildup reduces a dryer's ability to ventilate, the machine may quickly overheat and cause a fire to break out.

How to get rid of water in the dryer?

How to Fix Condensation in Dryer (in 4 Steps)
  1. Step 1 – Clean out the vent trap.
  2. Step 2 – Clean out the exhaust duct.
  3. Step 3 – Make sure the vent is positioned correctly.
  4. Step 4 – Install a booster or vent flap.

What happens if water gets under the washing machine?

Water Under Washing Machine Drum

There are a few reasons why water may be collecting under the wash drum, like a kinked or clogged drain hose or regularly overpacking your machine with laundry. These can cause obstructions and water will not be able to properly drain from the washer drum.

What happens if you soak clothes for too long?

A good soaking is generally helpful for removing stubborn stains, but too long a soaking and your clothes will eventually fall apart. If you're using any kind of chemicals to wash clothes, follow the manufacturer's instructions for using them as incorrect use can cause a lot of damage.

Is it OK to dry wet clothes inside?

Clothes can dry indoors in winter, but it can affect air quality, humidity and lead to mould. Try avoiding drying laundry in the rooms where you spend the most time e.g., your living room and bedroom. Instead, place the drying rack in the bathroom, the kitchen or hallway where you spend less time.

What happens if you leave wet clothes in the dryer now it stinks?

Damp clothes left inside the machine for too long can cultivate a moist environment, a haven for mildew. Thorough Lint Filter Cleaning: Start as previously directed by meticulously cleaning the lint filter. White Vinegar Magic: Soak a few sturdy towels with white vinegar until they're damp but not dripping.

Can you leave wet clothes in the dryer?

The main issue caused by leaving wet clothing in the washing machine or dryer is that the clothes will tend to smell. They may even develop mildew or mold that has to be washed away.

Will soaking wet clothes dry overnight?

Martha Stewart says leaving wet clothes overnight is “perfectly alright.” Martha's blog even says this can be a smart move if you're air drying the next morning—because sitting overnight helps get rid of excess water.

How long does it take for soaked clothes to dry in the dryer?

How long should a dryer take to dry? A typical drying cycle takes about 45 minutes, but this time can vary depending on the cycle, heat setting and size of your load. Delicate cycles take roughly 15 minutes, while heavy cycles, like bedding, can take up to three hours to fully dry.

Will soaking wet clothes ruin a dryer?

You should always avoid putting soaking wet clothes into a clothes dryer. Clothes that are soaking wet or dripping are heavy and this added weight in a standard dryer could damage it as it spins the load around.

Is it bad if water gets in a dryer?

Don't worry, to some degree, this is normal. Sometimes there are some mechanical issues that could make this situation worse: A dirty or inadequate vent cap on the outside of your home could allow hot moist air back in. A poorly designed ventilation system can trap moisture in your vent.

What to do if clothes are still wet after dryer?

Clothes Still Damp After Using the Dryer? Here's What to Do
  1. Step 1 – Check the settings. ...
  2. Step 2 – Make sure your laundry isn't too wet. ...
  3. Step 3 – Make sure the dryer isn't overloaded. ...
  4. Step 4 – Clean the lint trap. ...
  5. Step 5 – Clean the air vent. ...
  6. Step 6 – Test the thermal fuse. ...
  7. Step 7 – Test the door switch.

How to dry clothes that are soaking wet?

If you're inside, wring the water into a sink or tub; if you're outside, you can wring the water directly onto the ground. Roll the clothing into a towel to absorb the water. Put down a large, fluffy towel, then lay the wet garment on top. Roll up the towel tightly with the clothing inside.

Will dry clothes catch fire in dryer?

Yes, clothes can catch on fire in the dryer.

This happens when the lint builds up inside the dryer and ignites. The best way to avoid this problem is to check the lint trap regularly for build up.

Is it okay to put soaking wet blankets in the dryer?

Can You Put a Soaking Wet Blanket in the Dryer? Placing a soaking wet blanket in a dryer can indeed be risky and requires careful preparation to avoid any damage. Pre-drying Preparation: It's crucial to ensure the blanket is not excessively heavy from water retention.

How long does it take for water to dry on clothes?

The length of time it takes to air-dry clothes indoors depends on various factors, such as the type of fabric and the humidity level in the room. On average, it can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day.

Do clothes get ruined if left wet?

If damp clothes or bedding have been left in the washing machine or a basket for more than 8-12 hours we recommend giving it another wash. If it's been over 12 hours it's a safe bet that they will need to be re-washed.

How do you get water out of clothes fast?

Key steps
  1. ✦ Wash on a fast, high spin cycle using an efficient detergent like OMO.
  2. Hang clothes on a drying rack and place near a heat source.
  3. Place clothes where there's a flow of air – either outside or by an open window.
  4. Load small piles into a tumble dryer with dryer balls.
  5. Use clean towels to dry hand washed garments.

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