Guide · Bathroom, toilet and limescale ·
How to Wash a Bath Mat
A bath mat is one of the textiles that absorbs the most moisture, soap residue and dirt carried in on feet. The rubber or latex backing of non-slip mats cracks and crumbles at high temperatures, so washing and drying the mat correctly protects both its life and its slip resistance. This guide explains how to wash cotton, fluffy (plush) and non-slip bath mats in the machine and by hand.
Read the label first
- Follow the temperature and washing instructions on the mat's care label; non-slip mats are usually washed at a low temperature.
- Do not machine wash a mat whose backing has cracked or started to crumble; pieces that come off can clog the machine's filter.
- Before washing, shake the mat outside or vacuum it to remove hair, sand and dust.
- For doormats: how to clean a doormat.
- For hallway and kitchen runners: how to wash a runner rug.
How to wash a bath mat in the washing machine?
- Use a small load: wash the mat on its own or with a few towels; do not overload the machine.
- Choose the temperature: select the temperature on the label; on non-slip mats, a low temperature and a delicate or synthetics programme protect the backing.
- Measure the detergent: use liquid laundry detergent at the amount on the label; for coloured mats, detergent for coloureds helps protect the colour.
- Don't use too much detergent: leftover detergent stiffens the mat and makes it attract dirt again (how to remove detergent stains from clothes).
- Careful with softener: fabric softener can reduce the mat's absorbency; do not use it unless the label allows.
- Spin at low speed: a high spin speed can distort a non-slip backing.
How to wash a fluffy bath mat?
Fluffy and plush mats are usually polyester or microfibre. Wash them at the low temperature on the label, with liquid detergent and on a delicate programme; do not use bleach. Do not wash the mat together with cotton towels; towel lint catches in the plush. Do not tumble dry on high heat; once dry, you can fluff up the pile with a soft brush.
Non-slip mats
Non-slip mats with a rubber, latex or PVC backing are heat-sensitive. Washing at high temperatures and tumble drying crack the backing, make it crumble and lose its grip. Wash these mats at a low temperature, do not put them in the tumble dryer and air-dry them flat or on a line. A mat with a crumbling backing can slip on a wet floor; replace it with a new one.
How to wash a bath mat by hand?
Small mats, or mats that should not be machine washed, can be hand washed in the bathtub or a large basin in lukewarm water with a little liquid detergent. Soak the mat, wash it by pressing with your hands, rinse with plenty of water and let the water drain without wringing. For details: how to hand wash clothes.
How to dry a bath mat?
- Do not put the mat back in the bathroom until it is completely dry; a damp mat smells and its backing can stick to the floor.
- Do not put non-slip mats in the tumble dryer.
- Cotton mats without backing can be tumble dried on low heat if the label allows.
- Do not dry coloured mats in direct sunlight for long periods; the colour can fade.
For hotels and sports facilities
In businesses such as hotels, gyms and spas, bath mats are washed in the laundry together with towels; the right dose and good drying extend the life of the mat. TETİK liquid laundry detergent for whites and coloureds is sold in 4 kg and powder machine detergent in 20 kg packs. For washing towels, see how to wash towels; for the product list, see laundry supplies and chemicals, and request a quote for bulk purchases.
