Bruno Pugh
Laundry seems simple enough—toss it in and let the machine do the work. But not everything belongs in there. Some household items come with unexpected risks when washed the wrong way, and bathroom mats are no exception. Before you load up your next cycle, there are a few things you might want to know first.
Risk Of Overloading Your Machine
Bathroom mats absorb large amounts of water, significantly increasing their weight during a wash cycle. As a result, an overloaded machine with heavy mats strains the motor and suspension system, leading to excessive wear. This unnecessary stress can eventually shorten your washer’s lifespan by years.
Mats With Decorative Embellishments May Get Ruined
Some bathroom mats feature embroidery or decorative stitching that can loosen or fade in a washing machine. The agitation and spinning motion stress delicate detailing and cause premature wear. For mats with added designs, hand-washing is the best way to preserve their quality.
Shedding Fibers Can Clog Internal Components
According to appliance technicians, clogged internal components often cause slower spin cycles and poor drainage performance. Bathroom mats shed fibers during agitation, especially with repeated washing. When these loose fibers accumulate, they can clog the washer’s lint trap or drain hose, affecting their overall efficiency.
Excess Moisture Encourages Mold Growth
Mats with thick, absorbent fibers hold moisture even after a wash cycle ends. If not dried properly, this damp environment encourages mold and mildew growth, which then brings about musty odors. The trapped moisture can also seep into the washer’s rubber seals, leading to additional mold-related issues.
Spin Cycle Imbalance Causes Machine Shaking
An unbalanced load creates excessive vibrations that can loosen internal parts over time. When bathroom mats become unevenly soaked, they disrupt the balance of a front-loading or top-loading washer. As a result, violent shaking may eventually damage the washer’s suspension system.
Rubber Backing Can Deteriorate
Many bath mats feature non-slip rubber backing that breaks down when repeatedly exposed to heat and detergent. Over time, this deterioration can cause the support to harden or peel away, reducing effectiveness. This not only shortens the mat’s lifespan but also compromises its ability to stay securely in place, leading to safety risks in the bathroom.
Heavy Mats Can Damage Washer Drums Over Time
The weight of waterlogged bath mats significantly strains the washer drum, especially in front-loading machines. When mats shift unevenly, they create pressure points that can bend or dent the drum’s inner surface. Over time, this repeated stress may cause misalignment or damage to the washer’s bearings.
Heat and Agitation Can Cause Shrinkage
High temperatures in a warm wash cycle or dryer can gradually cause certain materials to shrink and lose shape. In particular, rubber-backed mats are vulnerable, as repeated heat exposure can lead to warping or cracking. Over time, this damage weakens the mat’s structure, making replacement necessary much sooner than expected.
Frequent Washing Wears Down The Fabric
Repeated machine washing gradually weakens the fibers of a bath mat and also leads to reduced absorbency. The material breaking down means the mats lose their ability to soak up water efficiently, which may feel rough underfoot. A gentle hand wash can significantly extend their lifespan.
Manufacturer Warranties May Not Cover Damage
Some washing machine manufacturers warn against washing oversized or heavy items, including bath mats. Ignoring these recommendations can void warranties and leave you with the repair cost. Before washing bulky items, always check the appliance manual for weight and fabric restrictions guidelines.