If you’ve ever washed a bath mat in your washing machine, you might be setting yourself up for expensive repairs. As an appliance technician with decades of experience, I’ve seen countless machines destroyed by this seemingly harmless habit. Here’s why you should avoid it and what to do instead.
Bath mats are deceptively heavy when wet. Modern washing machines spin at incredibly high speeds—up to 1,200 revolutions per minute—creating significant force. When you add the weight of a waterlogged bath mat, it puts excessive strain on your machine. This can lead to two expensive issues.
First, the rubber backing on many bath mats can break down during the wash cycle. The small rubber pieces clog the drain pump, damaging the motor and drain line. Replacing the drain motor can cost around $240. Even mats without rubber backing can shed fibers that clog the drain.
Second, the spin basket bearing and spider bracket bear the brunt of the damage. The increased weight and force from heavy mats can wear out the bearing or break the bracket, leading to repair costs of around $500 each. In some cases, the damage is so severe that replacing the washer is more economical than fixing it.
If you’ve already washed bath mats in your machine, you can check for damage. Open the washer door and spin the metal basket by hand. If it spins smoothly with little noise, your washer is likely fine. But if you hear clunking or loud noises during high-speed spins, the bearing may be worn out, and your machine’s lifespan is limited.
So, how should you clean bath mats? Take them to a coin laundry with heavy-duty machines designed for bulky items. If you continue washing heavy items at home, be prepared to replace your washer every few years.
Other items to avoid washing at home include comforters, sleeping bags, dog beds, drapes, weighted blankets, and rugs. These bulky or heavy items can also damage your machine. Save yourself the hassle and use a professional laundry service instead.
