How To Wash Bath Mats the Right Way

Bath mats are a staple of bathroom decor and comfort, providing a soft landing for your feet and adding a touch of style to your space. However, their constant exposure to moisture from showers and baths, combined with regular foot traffic, make them prone to accumulating bacteria and dirt. This creates the perfect breeding ground for germs, which can lead to unpleasant odors and potential skin irritations.

Though you might expect a headache, cleaning and washing bath mats actually isn't too hard, and that regular maintenance will keep them hygienic, fresh, and a comfy part of your bathroom. Here's what to know when it comes to how to clean and how to wash bath mats.

How Often Should I Clean My Bath Mats?

Cleaning your bath mats regularly is key to keeping your bathroom fresh and hygienic. Ideally, you should aim to wash your bath mats every one to two weeks. This frequency helps prevent the buildup of bacteria and dirt that naturally accumulate due to moisture and foot traffic.

When bath mats aren't cleaned often enough, they can become a hotspot for odor and germs. As you step onto the mat with bare feet, any bacteria present can transfer to your skin, potentially causing issues like athlete's foot or other fungal infections. Additionally, if you have sensitive skin or existing skin conditions, the presence of bacteria can exacerbate irritation. 

Keeping your bath mats clean helps minimize these risks, ensuring a healthier environment for your skin. Nobody wants to step out of a refreshing shower onto a mat that's harboring bacteria!

Preparing Your Bath Mats for Washing

Preparing your bath mats for washing is simple and will help ensure they come out clean and fresh.

1. Check the Care Labels: Before anything else, take a moment to read the care labels on your bath mats. These labels provide essential information about the best washing practices for the specific material. Some mats might be machine washable, while others require hand washing. Following these instructions helps maintain the quality and longevity of your mats.

2. Sort by Material Type: If you have multiple bath mats, it's a good idea to sort them by material type. This ensures that each mat receives the appropriate care and prevents damage. For instance, cotton mats can usually handle a regular wash cycle, while more delicate materials or weaves might need a gentler touch.

3. Shake Out Debris: Before washing, give your bath mats a good shake outside to remove loose dirt, hair, and other debris. This step helps prevent your washing machine from getting clogged and ensures a more effective clean.

4. Pre-Treat Stains: If you notice any stains on your bath mats, it's a good idea to pre-treat them before washing. Use a stain remover, which will usually instruct that you sprinkle just a bit and then let it sit for a few minutes. This helps break down the stain, making it easier to wash out and ensuring your mats look as good as new.

What Detergent Should I Use For Bath Mats?

Most bath mats don't need a specific type of detergent—in most cases, you can use whatever detergent you already use for regularly washing your clothes, bedding, and bath linens.

However, if you're looking for an eco-friendly and effective option, we recommend Miracle Detergent Sheets. These sheets dissolve quickly in hot or cold water and are compatible with all washing machines, including HE models. With their powerful cleaning action and gentle formula, they effectively remove odors and stains without harsh chemicals. Plus, their zero-waste, biodegradable packaging makes them a planet-friendly choice, helping you keep your bath mats clean while also caring for the environment!

How To Wash Bath Mats: A Step-by-Step Guide

Washing bath mats might seem straightforward, but a few key steps can make all the difference in keeping them clean, fresh, and long-lasting.

Machine Washing Bath Mats

1. Check the Care Label: As we mentioned above: before tossing your bath mats into the washing machine, take a quick look at the care label. This will tell you if the mat is machine washable and give you specific washing instructions.

2. Select the Right Cycle: Even if it doesn't specify a gentle cycle, you can opt for a gentle cycle to help protect the fabric of your bath mats. This setting is less harsh and helps maintain the mat's texture.

3. Choose the Water Temperature: You can opt for cold or warm water. Cold water is great for preserving colors and preventing shrinkage, while warm water can help tackle tougher stains and bacteria.

4. Add Detergent: Use your regular detergent (we recommend Miracle detergent, which effectively cleans, is gentle on your skin, and won't damage even delicate weaves or fabrics). Avoid bleach, as it can weaken fibers and fade colors.

5. Drying: After washing, either air dry your mats or use a low heat setting in the dryer. High heat can damage the rubber backing and cause shrinkage.

Hand Washing Delicate or Non-Machine Washable Mats

1. Fill a Tub with Water: Use lukewarm water to fill a tub or sink. Lukewarm water is gentle on fabrics and helps dissolve detergent effectively (we made Miracle sheets to dissolve in hot or cold, but lukewarm is still a safe bet here to protect the integrity of the fabrics).

2. Add Mild Detergent: Mix in your mild detergent of choice, which is also less likely to damage delicate fibers.

3. Gently Scrub: Submerge the mat and gently scrub any stained areas with a soft brush, cloth, or just your hands. This helps lift dirt without being too abrasive.

4. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the mat under clean water until all detergent is removed. Residual soap can attract more dirt if not rinsed out completely.

How To Dry Bath Mats

Air drying is often the best method for preserving the shape and texture of your bath mats. After washing, shake out any excess water and lay the mat flat on a clean surface or hang it over a railing. Make sure it's in a well-ventilated area, ideally with some sunlight, as the sun’s rays can help kill lingering bacteria. If you dry outside, avoid leaving it out for too long as strong, prolonged sun can cause discoloration. Air drying is gentle on the fabric and backing, reducing the risk of shrinkage or damage.

If you prefer using a dryer, select a low heat setting. High heat can damage the rubber backing and cause the fabric to shrink. Toss in a couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls to help fluff the mat and maintain its texture. Remember to check the mat periodically to ensure it’s drying evenly and not overheating.

Tips for Maintaining Shape and Texture

• Avoid Overloading: Whether air drying or using a machine, avoid overloading the drying space. Mats need room to dry evenly and thoroughly.

• Reshape While Damp: If your mat has lost its shape during washing, gently reshape it while it's still damp. This helps it dry in the correct form.

• Rotate Regularly: If air drying, rotate the mat occasionally to ensure all areas are exposed to air and sunlight, preventing any damp spots.

Conclusion

Washing your bath mats regularly can help you keep your bathroom a clean and hygienic space. Removing dirt, bacteria, and odors, ensures a fresh and inviting space that's comfy to be in whether you're freshening up, getting out of the shower, or handling your business.Whether you're washing, drying, or simply maintaining your mats, a little care goes a long way in creating a cleaner, healthier bathroom environment!

Looking for more ways to upgrade your bathroom? Explore our silver-infused bath towels, which can help prevent up to 99.7% of bacteria growth for your cleanest bathroom environment yet.

Sources:

1. What Is Athlete’s Foot & How Do You Treat It? 

2. Surprise! This Innocent-Looking Bathroom Item Is Actually The Germiest Part Of Your Bathroom 

3. Want to Kill Dangerous Bacteria? Open Your Blinds