Yes, unfortunately they can. That’s why it’s important to understand the proper temperature activation and lifetime of the detergent you use. Check the soap manufacturer recommendations on the back of the box. Typically temperature activation is around 72 degrees F, and the lifetime of the soap while sudsing is 15-20 minutes. Temperature of the water is important and should not be ignored! Cold temperature refers to about 70 degrees F, not 40 degrees F! So in the winter, the cold water supply may fall below activation temperature, resulting in no cleaning action at all! In this case, medium temperature may be needed instead of cold in your area during the winter. Also, after laundry is completed, many experts recommend that you run an empty bleach cycle to kill the remaining potential bacteria, and an extra rinse cycle to get rid of the bleach fully.
One other note about washers… NEVER overload a washer! This puts stress on its motor and transmission. One time is enough to do irreparable harm. Imagine towing a semi-tractor with your Ford Escort. The Escort might survive that single event, but the material stresses have killed the life of the vehicle. Blue jeans and cotton towels are the “semi-loads” of the laundry world.