Washing Bath Mats - This Is How To Do It Correctly

Bath rug, bath mat, bath mat ...?

In the bathroom, there are also some textiles on the floor that ensure our daily well-being. Bath rug and bath mat or bath mat are the products that are the subject of the following text.

Bath rugs are usually larger and heavier than bath mats or bath mats. On the one hand, they are functional – i.e. they can absorb moisture and warm the feet – and on the other hand, they are usually quite elaborately processed and decorative. Some bath rugs are coated on the underside so that they cannot slip away. They usually take longer to dry again.

Bath mats or bath mats are specially designed for use in front of the bath or shower. They are usually lighter than a bath rug and sometimes have smaller dimensions - but they also dry faster. This can be done lying on the floor or you can hang them over a classic towel rail. For small bathrooms, a shower mat is a good choice due to the smaller dimensions.

In fact, "bath rug" sometimes simply means the bath mat or bath mat. There are regional differences in the designation in Germany. In the following text, we refer to bath mats and shower mats, not dense carpets with a high pile.

How often should bath mats be washed?

Bath mats, just like towels, are usually used every day. After every shower or a long bath, we stand "on the mat" so as not to get cold feet and to dry ourselves off in peace. It makes sense to knock out or vacuum the mats after use, but at the same time they must also be washed regularly in the machine. This is the only way to make them hygienically clean again. As a rule of thumb, the bath mat can end up in the washing machine once or twice a week. In the case of frequent use or many family members, perhaps every other day.

You should always wash a bath mat before using it for the first time. In this way, lint or other small particles can be washed out of the production process. Then clean the lint filter - or put the bath mat in a duvet cover or laundry net when you wash it for the first time.

Washing and caring for bath mats properly

Even at low temperatures from 30° C, shampoo or soap residues can be washed out of the bath mat without any problems. However, always pay attention to the care instructions and the degree of soiling. Some bath mats can also be washed at 60° C, which is recommended at least occasionally to keep everything hygienically fresh and clean.

Which detergent and what temperature is required for a bath mat always depends on the material and colour. Pure cotton or a cotton-synthetic fibre blend can usually be washed at up to 60° C without any problems. For shower pads with linen content, you should select a washing programme with a maximum of 30° C. Colors should be washed with a common color detergent, for white textiles a heavy-duty detergent does a good job.

Bath mats or shower mats can be washed together with other textiles - such as towels - without any problems. However, it is best to wash bath rugs with a coating or high pile separately due to their size and special nature.

Can the bath mat be put in the dryer?

Again, check the care instructions first. Many bath mats can be dried in the dryer; However, caution is advised with bath mats with a coating. Drying in the fresh air is generally gentler and unproblematic, as the material is not subjected to additional stress. However, direct sunlight should be avoided, as this could fade the colors. Thanks to their lower weight, bath mats dry quite quickly anyway and are therefore quickly ready for use again.