Why You Shouldn’t Put Your Bath Mat in the Washer – The Hidden Risk to Your Machine

Bath mats are a staple in every bathroom, offering comfort, safety, and a cozy touch after a shower or bath. But if you’ve been tossing your bath mat straight into the washing machine without a second thought, you might be putting both your appliance and the mat at risk.

Surprisingly, one common cleaning habit could lead to costly damage — and even compromise your home’s hygiene if done incorrectly.

The Hidden Risks of Washing Bath Mats in the Machine

  1. Overloading Your Washer
    Bath mats, especially those with rubber or non-slip backings, are heavier than they appear when wet. Plopping one or two into a machine can overload it, strain the motor, and reduce its lifespan.

  2. Damaging the Non-Slip Backing
    Many bath mats have rubber or latex undersides to prevent slipping. Machine agitation can crack, peel, or warp this backing, turning your mat into a safety hazard.

  3. Trapping Moisture and Mildew
    Rubber-backed …
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