Introduction
Nothing beats the feeling of stepping out of the bath or shower onto a clean, fluffy bath mat – although you might change your mind after reading this article! It’s kind of like a warm hug for your feet. But there’s a catch if you truly want to enjoy it for as long as possible – keeping it clean. There’s plenty of water and humidity in bathrooms, which equals plenty of potential for mould and bacteria growth. Your natural bath mat is like your bamboo towels – constantly in use. That’s why it’s more often damp than dry, creating the perfect breeding ground for germs. But fear not! There’s a simple way to keep them at bay.
Table of Contents
How Often Should You Wash Your Bath Mat?
Wash it once a week to keep it in tip-top shape. If you leave it too long between washes, germs and bacteria will throw a party on your mat. And trust us, you don’t want that kind of party in your bathroom.
Can You Toss Your Bath Mat in the Washer?
Most mats can be washed in the washing machine. Yes, even those made from microfiber, chenille, cotton, and memory foam. Always check the care label – look for a washing tub symbol. If it’s there, you’re good to go. Rubber-backed mats are washer-friendly too, but watch out for any signs of rubber damage. Peeling rubber in your washing machine? Not cool. When it comes to washing your natural bath mat, it’s essential to follow specific care instructions to ensure its longevity and preserve its natural properties.
Hand Wash Only? No Problem!
If your mat gives you the “hand wash only” stare, don’t panic. Follow these steps to restore your mats to their former glory with your hands:
- Give It a Good Shake: Take your mat outside and give it a vigorous shake. Get rid of all the loose hair and dirt.
- Check the Care Label: Find the recommended washing temperature. Lower temps save energy (and your electricity bill).
- Add Detergent and Load the Washer: Skip fabric conditioner – it messes with absorbency. No vinegar or bleach either; they’re not mat-friendly.
Drying Like a Pro
After the wash, there are two ways to dry your mat:
- Tumble Dryer: Pop it in if your care label approves.
- Drying Rack: Lay it flat and let it air dry. Your mat will thank you.
Remember, a clean bath mat isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s about keeping your bathroom germ-free. That’s good for the space itself and, more importantly, your own health, well-being and safety. So, go ahead, pamper your feet, and keep that mat fresh!
Better Way
We did promise to turn your world completely upside down with a tasty little tidbit. All that advice, while accurate and easy to follow, still requires extra work. But what if we told you, you don’t have to stick to this weekly cleaning and maintenance routine…? What if there was a better way? Well, there is. In fact, you could skip it altogether, provided you’ve got the right product. What is it, you ask? A stone bath mat. Built with diatomite – an extremely absorbent and porous soft sedimentary rock – it soaks up all the water within 60 seconds, and it’s naturally antimicrobial, which means you won’t have to worry about mould or bacteria. All the maintenance required is some sanding every two or three weeks. Not a bad deal, right?
