bad smells in washing

[violetblue]

Anyone know how to get that horrible sour smell out of wet washing that's been left forgotten in the machine overnight?

[Ethel]

I would just rewash it on a quick cycle.

[sixpence]

I tried putting it out on the line, hoping the smell would go away, but no luck, but I found that a rinse cycle with a drop of fabric softener did the trick.

[violetblue]

I've done both things (it's a common habit of mine) but although they smell OK when they're wet, I can smell it coming back in the airing cupboard when they start drying. Oh dear!

[sixpence]

Anyone know what causes it to smell so strongly? I find it's worse if I leave slightly damp washing before getting round to ironing it.

[ugly_bob]

warm, damp environment.
perfect for bacteria to grow.
same bacteria as make your sweat smell.