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How to Wash and Care for Microfibre Bath Mats and Runners
Microfibre bath mats and runners are popular for a reason: they’re soft underfoot, soak up water quickly and dry faster than thick cotton. With a little care, they stay that way for a long time. Here’s how.
How often should you wash them?
- Bath mats: about once a week, or more often in a busy family bathroom.
- Kitchen and hallway runners: every one to two weeks, plus spot-cleaning spills straight away.
- During the monsoon: a little more often, since damp mats can start to smell sooner.
Washing
- Shake it out first to remove hair, dust and grit.
- Use a gentle cycle with cold or lukewarm water. Hot water can weaken the rubber anti-skid backing.
- Use a small amount of mild liquid detergent. Too much leaves residue that makes fibres stiff and less absorbent.
- Skip fabric softener. It coats microfibre and reduces how well it absorbs water.
- Never use bleach. It fades colours and damages the backing.
- Wash mats separately from towels and clothes with lots of lint, which can cling to microfibre.
Drying
- Air-dry flat or over a line, backing side facing out.
- Dry in the shade or indirect sunlight. Harsh afternoon sun can fade prints and dry out the backing.
- Avoid high heat from a tumble dryer, iron or heater.
- Make sure it’s completely dry before putting it back down, to prevent musty smells.
Everyday habits that help
- Hang the bath mat over the edge of the tub or a rail after use, so it dries between showers.
- Wipe the floor under the mat now and then. Trapped moisture is what usually causes smells.
- Keep two mats and rotate them. Each lasts longer, and you always have a fresh one ready.
- For a kitchen spill, blot (don’t rub) with a damp cloth and a drop of dish soap.
Always check the care label on your mat first. These tips are general guidance for microfibre mats with anti-skid backing.
Looking for a new one? Our bath mats and floor runners are made from soft, absorbent 1800 GSM microfibre with anti-skid backing, and they’re machine washable.
