Bath mats are a hotspot for grime and mould, yet many Britons only wash them once or twice a year, according to bathroom experts. Warren Kinloch from Bathroom Deal said fabric bath mats should be washed once or twice a week using a diluted white vinegar solution to keep bacteria at bay.
Rikki Fothergill from Big Bathroom Shop agreed, noting that bath mats have no way of circulating air or drying off when clung to floors, creating moisture and a build-up of mildew and mould. Home cleaning expert Belinda Everingham advised shaking the mat before washing to remove debris, and using a warm setting with baking soda to eradicate odours.
Belinda warned against overloading the washer: wash one mat at a time and never with other fabrics like towels, as bacteria could transfer. She also recommended keeping several mats on hand so replacements are available while one is being cleaned.
Even with regular washing, fabric bath mats should be replaced every year. For a longer-lasting alternative, consider a wooden bath mat, which does not cling onto as much bacteria and requires less frequent cleaning.
