A common concern of homeowners when it comes to cleaning the bathroom is how to keep bath mats from getting moldy. Bath mats should be regularly cleaned to get rid of the oily build that comes from soaps and hair products. Because the bathroom is a moist and humid place, mold and mildew can thrive and lead to foul-smelling odors. So, how do you keep bath mats from getting mold? Let us learn the answer below.
How do you keep bath mats from getting moldy? Regular cleaning of bath mats will prevent mildew, stains, and smells, and mold growth. Cleaning and maintenance are the key factors when it comes to preventing mold from growing in the first place. Do not leave damp mats on the floor. Wash bath mats regularly to prevent mold and germs from growing.
Bath mats can accumulate dirt, debris, and bacteria. Because it is often wet, mold and easily grow on it. How do you prevent bath mats from getting moldy? Why do shower mats go moldy? How do you wash bath mats? We will discuss these questions and more below. Check out the rest of this article for more tips and information on how to keep bath mats from getting moldy.
How to Prevent Bath Mats from Getting Moldy?
One of the things that you can do to prevent bath mats from getting moldy is to reduce the moisture levels in both the mats and the bathroom. Consistent cleaning and maintenance will also prevent mold from growing in the first place. While moisture and humidity are given in any bathroom, there are ways that you can do to effectively prevent the growth of mold not only in the bath mats but in any area of the bathroom as well. Below are tips that you can follow on how to lessen the moisture level in the bathroom.
Properly Run the Fan
Aside from turning on the vent during the shower, you also need to leave it working for at least 30 minutes to an hour after you are done. This will prevent leftover moisture from growing mold. You can install a fan with a timer so that it will automatically turn off.
Choose the Right Fan
Make sure that you choose the right fan for your bathroom. Vents are effective when it comes to letting moisture out of the air and sending it outside. They are considered the first defense that you can have against mold and mildew. The cubic feet per minute or CFM count of the fan will determine if it is good enough for the space of your bathroom.
Use a Squeegee
Another way to lessen the amount of moisture in the bathroom is to use a squeegee. Running the squeegee on the tub or shower walls after showering can lessen the moisture in the room by up to ¾. It only takes a few minutes to wipe the tub and walls with the squeegee as compared to getting rid of mold.
Clean Towels, Mats, and Rugs
Molds can easily grow and thrive in bath mats, towels, and rugs especially if they are left unwashed for a long time. See to it that you wash bath towels, mats, and rugs at least once a week. They should be clean and dry especially under the suction cups of the mats to prevent mold accumulation. We have also shared this article that discusses if you should put a rug in front of the toilet. Check out the article for more information about the topic.
Cover all Leaks
One of the causes of mold is the leaks in your bathroom. See to it that you cover and repair all leaks that you can find and do not leave them for later. You can call the services of a plumber if you do not have the time. Take note that mold can easily grow and spread so you need to act immediately and seal all leaks in your bathroom. You can also check out this article that we have written titled, should you leave your shower curtain open or closed? We have shared an in-depth discussion about the topic.
Mildew Resistant Bath Mats
Mildew-resistant bath mats can handle excess water without the threat of mildew or mold forming. There is a wide array of mildew-resistant bath mats sold on the market. Moisture and dampness on the mat can cause mildew. Choosing the right materials for your bathroom is important when it comes to fighting mold.
Why do Shower Mats Go Moldy?
One of the reasons why bath mats can go moldy is because of the lingering moisture in the bathroom. Plumbing pipes, leaky toilets, damp cellulose materials, sinks, and lack of proper ventilation can cause moisture and humidity. The moisture and heat that circulates in the bathroom will result in a humid environment that makes it ideal for mildew and mold to thrive. You can check out this article that we have written that discusses why bath mats get moldy for an in-depth discussion about the topic.
What Do You Put Under a Bath Mat?
A Velcro can be placed under the mat to keep it in place and make it easy to pick up when it needs to be cleaned. To make sure that the Velcro will not come off when washing the mat; you can stitch the Velcro into it. Make sure to put the right amount of Velcro under the bath mat so that it stays in place no matter how much pressure you put into it. Can bath mats cause accidental tripping? Check out this article that we have shared titled, are bath mats dangerous? We have shared the potential dangers that can come from bath mats.
Should You Wash Bath Mats?
It is vital to wash bath mats to keep them sanitary. Make sure to wash the mats regularly and at least once a week depending on how dirty they get. Keep them dry after wash to prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
✅ Video – How to Clean a Shower Mat
Clean With Confidence shared the video below on YouTube. It talks about how to clean a shower mat in three simple steps. Watch the video below for step-by-step instructions on cleaning bath mats.
How to Wash Bath Mats
There are different ways on how to wash bath mats and this will have to depend on the material that they are made of. You can hand wash bath mats or you can also put them in the washing machine. If you wash them wrong, it can lead o stains, short lifespan, damage, and mold. Below, we have shared tips and information on how to wash bath mats by hand and with the use of a washing machine.
How to Hand Wash Bath Mats
Hand washing bath mats will require the use of the right bleach solution and cleaning product. It is also best to clean the mats in a well-ventilated area. Check out the steps below on how to handwash bath mats.
Prepare the Bleach Solution
An easy and convenient way to clean your bath mat is by soaking it in a bleach solution in the bathtub. You can also use the laundry or utility sink if you have one at home. See to it that you measure the amount of bleach that you will use to clean the mat and that you have enough room to soak the mat. What is a laundry sink and do you need one at home? Check out this article that we have shared titled, do you really need a laundry sink? We have listed various reasons regarding the advantages of a laundry sink.
Wear Protective Gear
Be careful when handling bleach because it can irritate the skin or eyes. You can wear protective cleaning gloves and goggles when you pour the bleach solution.
Wash in a Ventilated Area
See to it that you wash the bath mat in a well-ventilated area when you are using a bleach solution. Open the windows or leave the bathroom door open. Take note that fumes from the bleach solution can be noxious and also cause dizziness so you need to use it in a well-ventilated area.
Use Cold Water First
When washing the bath mat, make sure to use cold water first. Add one gallon of water to the bathtub before pouring the bleach solution into it. Avoid using hot water with the bleach solution because it can intensify the bleach that you add.
Measure the Bleach Solution
See to it that you have a measuring tool for the bleach solution. Avoid pouring the bleach in the water without measuring it. This is because unequal measurement of bleach to water can be potent and dangerous. It can also cause dizziness and breathing problems. For normal cleaning, measure 1 teaspoon of bleach to 1 gallon of water.
Soak and Scrub
To get rid of mildew and mold, leave the bath mats in the bleach solution for at least three to four hours. Then, scrub the mat with the use of a cleaning brush or a scouring pad to remove the dirt and debris. Make sure to check the underside of the mats especially the suction cups to make sure that no dirt and mold are left out.
Dry the Mat
Lastly, dry the mat outdoors under the sun. The heat that comes from the sun will help remove mold. If you cannot dry outdoors, you can also hang the mats on the tub or the shower rod.
How to Machine Wash Bath Mats
Some bath mats can be machine washed. Washing the mats in the washing machine is the same as washing ordinary clothes. Below are the steps on how to machine wash bath mats.
Place Bath Mats into the Washing Machine
Wash the mats as you would a load of ordinary clothes. Use the right cleaning product for the mats. You can find detergent and cleaning products specifically created for cleaning bath mats. Clean the mats by themselves or you can also add rugs to improve the cleaning process.
Use Cold or Warm Water on a Gentle Cycle
Take note that washing the mats in a normal or bulky setting may damage or weaken the material. Use gently cycle to make sure that the mats are safe. Moreover, you can use cold or warm water for washing.
Dry the Mat
Some bath mats can be placed in the dryer while are others cannot. Take note that rubber mats are not suitable for a dryer because they can melt the plastic. Use a clothesline to dry the mats under the sun.
Conclusion
In this article, we have discussed how to keep bath mats from getting moldy. We have shared the different ways that you can do to make sure that your bath mats are safe from mold and mildew. Proper cleaning of bath mats is also recommended. Regular cleaning and maintenance will not only prevent the growth of mold but will also make sure that your mats stay hygienic and sanitary. Take note of these things to maintain and clean and hygienic bathroom. Thank you for reading!