Cleaning hacks: Your bath mat is hiding a filthy secret - clean 'weekly' to avoid bacteria
CLEANING your bath mat might not be top of your list of priorities in the bathroom, but one expert says there is a crucial step people should be doing once a week to keep bacteria at bay.
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From scrubbing grout to ensuring your toilet bowl is clean, when it comes to the bathroom there are plenty of chores to be done. However, an expert has warned residents should not be forgetting about their bath mat.
This is because your bath mat is a high-traffic area, and one of the most used items in the bathroom, even if you don't realise it.
According to Deyan Dimitrov, the CEO of Laundryheap, your bath mat can become a hub of germs and may even be the ideal environment for mould to thrive.
He said: "Bath mats are designed to absorb a lot of water, but it’s important to wash them regularly to maintain appropriate hygiene standards."
Though some bath mats are safe to go in the washing machine, rubber-backed ones might not be.
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This is why Mr Dimitrov recommends using white vinegar.
He explained: "For bath mats with rubber backings, try to avoid the washing machine - to prevent bacteria build-up without damaging the rubber, it’s best to spray them with white vinegar weekly, and to wash them in cold water every three to four weeks."
White vinegar works well as a natural disinfectant because it's made from acetic acid.
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According to Healthline: "The acidic nature of vinegar is so powerful it can dissolve mineral deposit, dirt, grease, and grime. It's also strong enough to kill bacteria."
Mr Dimitrov also advises washing your bath mat once a week, either by hand, a professional cleaning service or in the washing machine if it is safe to do so.
He said: "Most mats can be washed by professional cleaning services, or in your washing machine, but make sure to double-check their label’s washing requirements before doing so."
Rugs that can typically be machine washed include cotton, polyester, and nylon.
He added: "I would recommend replacing your mats every two years in order to keep them fresh and clean."