How to Clean Rubber Mats, Tackle Mold, and Keep Your Bathroom Fresh

Your bath and shower mats do a lot of dirty work—literally. Over time, they collect soap scum, mildew, and even black mold if they’re not cleaned regularly. But how should you clean your bath or shower mat? Can you wash rubber-backed rugs in the washing machine? And what’s the best way to remove stubborn buildup from suction cups?

At SlipX Solutions, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to cleaning bath and shower mats, whether they’re made of rubber, fabric, or a combination of both.

    Good news: Almost all of our non-slip mats are machine washable (just not the weighted one)!

    Can You Wash Rubber Bath and Shower Mats in the Washing Machine?

    Yes! All of our shower and bath mats are easy to clean in the washing machine.

    • Use cold or warm water only (no hot water).

    • Choose a gentle cycle.

    • Add a couple of towels to balance the load.

    For our weighted bath mats, there’s no need to hang—simply roll them up and let them air dry. The sturdy, slat-style design makes them easy to store and perfect for everyday use.

    Avoid putting your bath mat in the dryer. To protect the suction cups and keep the non-slip surface, it’s best to air-dry only. In short, this helps extend the life of your mat!

    Weighted Non-Slip Bath Mat for Textured Tubs & Showers- New Product
    A close-up of an antimicrobial rubber mat.
    Power grip extra long bath mat covering the entire bathtub floor.

    How to Clean Rubber Bath Mats (Like Ours!)

    Our SlipX Solutions shower and bath mats are made with durable, high-grip rubber and feature suction cups or micro-drainage holes. Rubber mats are durable, but they still need regular care.

    Here’s how to clean a rubber bath mat properly:

    1. Fill your tub with warm water and a small amount of mild detergent.
    2. Submerge the mat, scrub gently with a soft brush if needed.
    3. Rinse thoroughly.
    4. Hang the mat over the side of the tub or shower to air dry completely.

    For a deeper clean, you can also add white vinegar to help break down soap scum and deodorize naturally.

    Why Clean Your Bath Mat Regularly?

    If your rubber bath mat lives in a damp environment, it’s the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. Not only can that lead to an unpleasant odor and unsightly discoloration, but it’s also potentially harmful to your health.

    Common problems like:

    • Black mold on bath mats

    • Slippery buildup

    • Dirty suction cups
      …are easy to prevent with regular cleaning.

    How to Remove Mold from Bath Mats

    If you notice mold or black spots on your bath mat, here’s what to do:

    1. Soak the mat in a mixture of vinegar and water (1:1 ratio).
    2. Scrub the moldy areas with a brush.
    3. Add a few drops of tea tree oil for extra mold-fighting power.
    4. Rinse well and air dry in direct sunlight if possible.

    Prevent mold on bath mats by hanging them up after every use and washing regularly.

      Keep It Clean, Simple, and Slip-Free

      Whether you’re using one of our bath mats or shower mats, keeping them clean helps them perform at their best.

      • Daily showers? Aim for a weekly wash.

      • Lighter use? Every 2–3 weeks should do the trick.

      Need a new bath mat? Explore our full collection of easy-to-clean, non-slip mats here and find the perfect fit for your space!

      SlipX Solutions FAQs

      Is it hygienic to wash bath mats and rugs in the washing machine?

      Yes! Washing your SlipX mat regularly helps prevent mold, mildew, and soap scum buildup. It’s a safe and hygienic way to keep your bathroom fresh—as long as you follow product-specific guidelines.

      How often should I clean my SlipX mat?

      For longevity of your bath mat, clean your mat weekly or at least every 1–2 weeks—especially if it stays damp or is used daily. SlipX mats are designed for frequent maintenance and long-lasting use.

      Can I use bleach or Clorox on my SlipX mat?

      Using harsh chemicals like bleach on rubber mats can degrade the material over time. For disinfecting, use a mild solution and then air dry. 

      Can I dry my SlipX mat in the dryer?

      Most SlipX mats should be air-dried to preserve their non-slip backing and flexibility. Avoid using a dryer unless the product label says it’s safe. Hanging or laying flat in a well-ventilated area is best.

      What are the best SlipX mats for large or walk-in showers?

      SlipX offers extra-long options for walk-in showers and tubs. These mats provide full coverage and are designed with effective drainage and slip resistance. Look for “XL” or “oversized” in product descriptions.

      What are some cute or stylish SlipX mats that are also washable?

      Function meets style in many of our mats, from pebble-textured designs to modern patterns. Look for washable, non-slip, and mold-resistant in product descriptions to get the best of both worlds.