I prefer placing mats in my bath place because they are slip-resistant and resistant to water damages. Also, their fluffiness feels comfy under the feet.
But over time, it loses its fluffiness.
The primary reason behind losing fluffiness is the continuous water absorption; it gets wet and soapy, losing its previous softness and comfy feel.
So how to make your bath mats fluffy again? It is recommended to follow a proper washing method to restore the fluffiness of bath mats.
In this guide, I will take you through a few tips and washing methods to restore the old fluffiness of the bath mats.
Let’s dive into it.
How to Make Bath Mats Fluffy Again? (In 5 Steps)
Generally, bath mats are machine washable. You will find different materials have different washing conditions.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eIt is recommended to use warm water for nylon, and polyester mats. On the other hand, cold water will be perfect for memory foam, chenille, and velvet.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eu003cstrongu003eNote – Using Hot or Warm water with synthetic materials causes damage.u003c/strongu003eu003cbru003eu003cbru003eu003cbru003e
Step 1 – Get Rid of Dirts
First, start with a general cleaning process by removing pieces of debris, hairs, and specks of dirt from your bath mat. You can do this by giving your mat a good shake, then use a vacuum to reach hard to remove dirt.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eu003cbru003e
Step 2 – Remove Stains from Mat
Before proceeding with the machine wash, remove all the stains and spots manually. u003cbru003eu003cbru003eFor that, Mix a 50/50 solution of water and u003ca href=u0022https://www.amazon.com/Lucys-Family-Owned-Distilled-Vinegar/dp/B07985NMQD?dchild=1u0026amp;keywords=white+vinegaru0026amp;qid=1625904376u0026amp;sr=8-1u0026amp;linkCode=ll1u0026amp;tag=fixnclean-20u0026amp;linkId=8f9307343a4b2b8fe15d1dca137f2140u0026amp;language=en_USu0026amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tlu0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noreferrer noopeneru0022u003ewhite vinegaru003c/au003e in a spray bottle. Spray this solution on the stains and wipe it with a cloth. Repeat this until the stains are gone.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eOnce you remove all stains, the next step is to wash the entire mat with a proper washing method.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eu003cbru003e
Step 3 – Prepare to Wash with Baking Soda, Detergent u0026amp; Vinegar
Now, it’s time to wash your mat.u003cbru003eu003cbru003ePut mats or rugs on your washing machine.u003cbru003eu003cstrongu003eAdd baking sodau003c/strongu003e into the washing machine’s drum.u003cbru003eThen, u003cstrongu003eadd a tablespoon of mild detergentu003c/strongu003e into one drawer and u003cstrongu003evinegaru003c/strongu003e in another drawer. (Vinegar will act as natural fabric softener)u003cbru003eu003cbru003e u003cbru003e
Step 4 – Select Appropriate Washing Cycle u0026amp; Wash
Based on your mat material, select an appropriate washing cycle. If your mat material is nylon or polyester, keep the washing cycle warm. In the case of memory foam, chenille, and velvet, keep the washing cycle cold.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eu003cstrongu003eWarm Settings -u003c/strongu003e 110 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit (43.3-32.2 degrees Celsius)u003cbru003eu003cstrongu003eCold Settings -u003c/strongu003e 80 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit (26.7-15 degrees Celsius)u003cbru003eu003cbru003eu003cbru003e
Step 5 – Dry u0026amp; It’s Done!
Once you are finished with washing, hang your mat or rug under a fan. Or a dryer would also work, keep low heat air dryer settings and start drying for 20-30 minutes.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eYou’re ready to Go!u003cbru003eu003cbru003eu003cbru003e
How to Restore Fluffiness of Non-Machine Washable Bath Mats?
Some rug materials such as plastic, wooden, rubber-backed, or jute are not machine washable. The only secure way is to give it a hand wash.
You can do this by yourself. Follow these simple steps below:
- Take few tablespoons of laundry detergent.
- Add that to a tub filled with half water.
- Mix the solution well with your hands.
- Next, take a sponge or a soft brush & start cleaning.
- Once done, hang it under a fan to dry.
How to Fluff Up Pressed Area of A Bath Mat?
If you notice some pressed area in your bath mat, you can still make it fluffy again by using a blow dryer or iron.
Below tips were shared by wikiHow. I am only sharing the ones that worked for me.
Using A Blow Dryer
Get a spray bottle and properly rinse it so that the bottle gets free from dust. Next, fill up the spray bottle with clean or distilled water. It is advised not to use hot water as it may damage some mat’s fabric.
Now, take your mat and flatten it on a clean surface.
Start spraying water on the flattened mat in a small amount. Too much spraying will soak the carpet. So avoid doing that.
Next, take your hair dryer and set it to low heat settings. Hold the dryer about six inches from the mat and move it back and forth across the area.
When it is dry, grab a brush with stiff but soft bristles and brush the carpet a few times. You’ll notice the mat becoming fluffy as it was before.
Using a Iron
The second time when I noticed a pressed area in my bath mat, I thought of trying out a new method. So I came across using an iron.
First, bring a towel and wet it with warm water. You can dip your towel into a container filled with warm water and wire out all the excess water by squeezing the towel, and then spread the towel on the dented area of the mat.
Then, heat your iron in medium heat settings. Hold it few inches above the towel and start moving the iron in a circular motion for up to 1 minute.
Note – Do not place the iron directly on the mat. It may damage the fabric.
After heating, remove the towel to the side and start fluffing up the mat using your fingers. You will notice the mat becoming fluffy as it was before.
FAQ: Making Bath Mats Fluffy Again
Why Vinegar is used for Cleaning Mats?
Vinegar act as a great natural fabric softener. Its acidic property is much strong to remove dirt, grime, and grease. Besides, it also acts as a disinfectant to kill bacteria present on mats.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eIt is recommended to use white vinegar for cleaning purposes.
Can Vinegar Damage your Washing Machine?
Due to the acidic property of vinegar, it can damage your washing machine’s rubber parts such as hoses and seals, causing unnecessary leaks.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eThe only safe way of using vinegar in a washing machine – consider only a small amount and avoid its frequent use.
Why is Baking Soda Good for Cleaning?
Baking soda as a cleaning agent helps to dissolve dirt, grease, and grime hidden in the fibers.
How often to clean bathroom mats?
Washing a bathroom mat once a week is a best practice. But sometimes, it should be decided considering; how often the mat is being used. If more than two-person are sharing the mats, then it is recommended to wash them every 3 to 4 days.
