Shower mats are a great way to keep your bathroom floor clean and dry. They prevent water from splashing out of the shower and onto the floor, making it easier to clean up after a shower. However, shower mats can become stained and smelly over time. To keep your shower mat looking and smelling fresh, it’s important to clean it regularly. Here are some tips on how to clean shower mats and keep them fresh.
1. Pre-Treat Stains
If your shower mat is stained, it’s important to pre-treat the stains before washing. You can use a mild detergent and a soft brush to pre-treat any stubborn stains. Make sure to work the detergent into the fibers of the mat to remove any dirt and grime. For tougher stains, you may need to apply a stain remover before washing.
2. Wash in a Machine or by Hand
Once you’ve pre-treated the stains, you can either wash your shower mat in a washing machine or by hand. If you’re washing it in a machine, use a gentle cycle and a mild detergent. If you’re washing it by hand, fill a sink or bucket with warm water and a mild detergent. Then submerge the shower mat and let it soak for several minutes before scrubbing it with a brush.
3. Rinse and Hang to Dry
Once you’ve finished washing your shower mat, it’s important to rinse it off thoroughly to remove all traces of soap. If you’re washing it in a machine, set the machine to a rinse cycle. If you’re washing it by hand, rinse it with clean water. Once you’ve finished rinsing, hang the shower mat up to dry.
4. Use a Disinfectant
To kill any germs and bacteria on the shower mat, it’s a good idea to use a disinfectant. You can either use a commercial disinfectant or make your own. To make your own, mix one part white vinegar with two parts water. Then spray the mixture onto the mat and let it sit for several minutes before wiping it off with a damp cloth.
5. Vacuum the Mat
Once the shower mat is dry, you can use a vacuum cleaner to remove any dirt or debris that may have become trapped in the fibers of the mat. Be sure to use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to get into all of the nooks and crannies of the mat.
6. Clean the Shower Floor
In addition to cleaning the mat itself, it’s also important to clean the shower floor. This will help keep the mat clean and free of dirt and grime. Use a mild detergent and a damp cloth to clean the shower floor.
7. Refresh with Baking Soda
To keep your shower mat smelling fresh, sprinkle some baking soda onto the mat before you put it back in the shower. The baking soda will absorb any odors and help keep the mat smelling fresh.
8. Replace the Shower Mat
Over time, shower mats can become worn and faded. If your shower mat is looking worn, it may be time to replace it. Be sure to measure the size of your shower before you buy a new mat, as some mats are designed to fit specific showers.
Conclusion
Keeping your shower mat clean is an important part of keeping your bathroom clean and hygienic. It’s important to pre-treat any stains and wash it regularly in order to keep it looking and smelling fresh. Finally, be sure to replace your shower mat when it starts to look worn or faded. With these tips, you can keep your shower mat clean and fresh for years to come.