Bath mats offer more than just a cosy accessory for your bathroom. These mats also protect your floors from damage caused by water and help prevent falls and slips. Do you know the proper way to wash and maintain your bath mats? We’ve got your back.
This blog post will show you how to extend the life of your bath mats and remove stains.
Let’s get started!
How often should you wash your bath mats?
Every day, bath mats are subjected to moisture, dirt and bacteria. Mold, mildew and bacteria can be found on them, causing unpleasant odors and health issues. It’s vital to regularly wash your bathmats to keep them sanitary and fresh.
The frequency of washing your bath mats will depend on:
- How often do you use the bathroom?
- How many people can share a bathroom?
- What type of material is your bath mat made of?
You should wash your bathmats once a week as a rule.
If they become visibly dirty or odorous, wash them more frequently.
Wash your bath mats if someone in your home is sick or if your pets wander into the bathroom.
How to wash your bath mats the best way
It is easier to wash your bath mats if you have the following materials and equipment ready:
Appliances/ Tools
- The washing machine or the bathtub
- The drying rack or clothesline
- Vacuum cleaner or broom is optional
Cleaning Supplies
- Mild laundry detergent
- Stain Remover
- A disinfectant (optional)
- A fabric softener is optional
- A vinegar and/or baking soda (optional)
How to wash your bath mats in the washing machine
If your bath mat can be machine-washed, the most convenient and easiest method is to wash it in the washer.
Check the care label for information on whether it is suitable for washing in a machine, as well as what temperature and settings to use.
Here are the steps you need to follow in order to wash your mat correctly:
Shake out the dirt and hair
Shake your bath mat over a trashcan or outside before putting it in the washer to remove loose hairs, dust, dirt and debris. Use a vacuum or a broom for sweeping away dust and lint.
Please follow the instructions on the label for care.
Follow the instructions on the label of your bathmat.
Some bath mats require a delicate or gentle cycle, low or medium temperatures, or a particular type of detergent. Bleach can damage your bath mat’s fibers and color.
Add Detergents and Other Additives
Put your bath mat into the washer along with mild laundry detergent.
Add a disinfectant such as bleach or vinegar to eliminate odors and kill germs. Never mix vinegar and bleach as the fumes can be toxic.
You can use fabric softener to give your bath mat a soft, pleasant scent. Use it sparingly as it may reduce the absorbency. Add 1/2 cup of vinegar into your wash cycle for a more eco-friendly and clean softening solution.
You should wash your bath mat separately or with similar items
Washing your bath mat along with clothes can cause lint to transfer. It can also be difficult to remove.
Don’t overfill the washer, or your bath mat may lose its texture and shape. Wash your bath mat along with other similar items such as towels and rugs.
Air Dry Your Bathmat
After washing, remove your bath mat from the machine and gently shake it to fluff the fibers. Avoid wringing or twisting your bath mat as this can cause damage to the material and backing.
Hang your bath mat to dry on a clothesline, or use a drying rack.
Avoid using a dryer on bath mats with synthetic backing. It can cause them to shrink, melt or warp. Use a low-heat setting, a gentle cycle and be sure to check it often if you must use a drying machine.