It is generally not recommended to put wet laundry back in the dryer after a cycle is complete, especially if the dryer has been turned off or left idle for some time. Doing so can lead to several issues:
Energy consumption: Running the dryer again with already dried clothes is a waste of energy and time. Dryers use a significant amount of electricity or gas to heat the air and remove moisture from wet clothes. Running a cycle unnecessarily will increase your utility bills.
Over-drying: Subjecting already dry clothes to additional drying cycles can over-dry them. Over-drying can cause clothes to become brittle, fade, and wear out more quickly. It may also lead to increased static cling and wrinkles in the fabrics.
Fabric damage: Over-drying can be harsh on fabrics, especially delicate or sensitive materials. It can lead to shrinkage, color fading, and decreased softness in clothing.
Fire hazard: If the dryer has been turned off, putting wet laundry back in and turning it on without checking the lint filter or ventilation can create a fire hazard. Lint buildup and poor ventilation are common causes of dryer fires.
If you accidentally left your laundry in the dryer after the cycle finished, it's best to take the clothes out immediately and fold or hang them. If the clothes have been sitting for a while and are slightly damp or wrinkled, you can use a damp cloth or a spray bottle to lightly mist the clothes before placing them in the dryer for a short refresh cycle (about 10 minutes) to remove wrinkles and freshen them up.
To avoid this situation in the future, try to set a timer or reminder to take out the laundry promptly when the drying cycle completes. This will help you save energy, maintain the quality of your clothes, and reduce the risk of accidents.