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Honored Contributor
Posts: 38,221
Registered: ‎05-22-2016

Re: Help for clothes wet too long

In case you didn't know...Lysol Laundry Sanitizer comes in a fragrance-free version, "Free & Clear"

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Respected Contributor
Posts: 3,908
Registered: ‎06-24-2011

Re: Help for clothes wet too long

I think an odor from being wet too long could be mold or mildew. Bleach is the only thing I know of that kills mold & mildew. I'd bleach the clothes that tolerate bleach and then decide what you want to do with the rest of the clothes.

Respected Contributor
Posts: 4,093
Registered: ‎05-31-2022

Re: Help for clothes wet too long

I guess it may depend what type of fabrics were in the basket and whether they can be washed in warm water or not. Clorox on any whites like towels. If you had items that are cold wash only it would be harder to remove a musty smell. How long were they sitting in the water? Any mildew? Old school Tide could help with the odor...I would avoid anything with perfumes or other scented products.

Esteemed Contributor
Posts: 5,802
Registered: ‎06-07-2010

Re: Help for clothes wet too long

I think I would throw them away.........wouldn't want the possibility of mold and mildew in my clothes!

Respected Contributor
Posts: 2,946
Registered: ‎03-14-2010

Re: Help for clothes wet too long

Odoban. It's $10 at Walmart. But separate whites from colors.

I cleaned by carpet with it and it removed the dog smell.

Honored Contributor
Posts: 11,563
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

Re: Help for clothes wet too long

Borax has been recommended by doctors for mildew clothing.

Honored Contributor
Posts: 14,239
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

Re: Help for clothes wet too long


@Patriot3wrote:

I think I would throw them away.........wouldn't want the possibility of mold and mildew in my clothes!


I don't know what kind of *back up* occurred in your basement. But I wouldn't want any parts of unwanted water on my clothes, much less on my body.

I would've pitched them immediately. Wouldn't even think about putting them in my washing machine. No way!