Bath mats are an essential part of any bathroom, providing comfort, style, and functionality. However, properly storing bath mats is important to maintain their cleanliness, durability, and appearance. Whether you’re looking to organize your space or preserve your mats between uses, understanding the best storage practices can help keep them fresh and ready to use.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to store bath mats so that you can get back to using it in no time! So grab your tools, and let’s get started!
Clean Before You Store
Before storing your bath mats, it’s essential to ensure they are properly cleaned. Start by checking the care label for specific washing instructions. Most bath mats can be machine washed using a gentle cycle with warm water and mild detergent. For mats with rubber or non-slip backing, avoid high heat as it can cause cracking or deterioration. If your mat has stubborn stains, treat them beforehand with a stain remover or baking soda paste.
Once washed, allow the mat to dry completely—either by air drying or using a low-heat setting in the dryer. Storing a damp mat can lead to mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors, so make sure it’s fresh and dry before putting it away. Taking the time to clean your mats properly ensures they remain hygienic and ready for their next use.
Choosing the Right Storage Location
Proper storage is essential to maintaining the condition of your mats and prolonging their lifespan. Select a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure to UV rays can weaken materials and cause fading. Avoid storing your mat in damp or humid spaces, such as basements or bathrooms, as this can encourage the growth of mold and mildew.
If space allows, consider rolling or stacking your mats in a designated storage bin or shelf to keep them clean and organized. For mats with specific care instructions, check the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure optimal storage practices. A well-chosen storage location ensures your mats remain in great shape and ready for use whenever you need them.
10 Methods How to Store Bath Mats
1. Roll and Stack in a Linen Closet
One of the simplest and most efficient ways to store bath mats is by rolling them rather than folding. Rolling minimizes creasing and makes the mats easier to stack vertically in a linen closet. Choose a shelf that’s dry and ventilated—preferably one away from moisture-prone zones like basements. To keep things neat, arrange rolled mats by color or season, and place them upright in open bins or on shelf dividers. This method not only saves space but also allows you to quickly grab the one you need without unstacking a whole pile.
2. Use an Over-the-Door Towel Rack for Quick-Dry Storage
If you don’t have spare closet space, consider using an over-the-door towel rack to temporarily store bath mats. This method works especially well for recently used mats that still need to dry. Instead of folding a damp mat and tucking it into a drawer (a mold risk!), hang it over a multi-tiered towel rack behind the bathroom door. It allows air to circulate around each mat, ensuring they dry thoroughly between uses. Once completely dry, you can fold or roll them for long-term storage elsewhere.
3. Store Mats in a Labeled Under-Bed Storage Box
For infrequently used or seasonal bath mats, under-bed storage boxes are a clever solution. Choose a box with a tight-fitting lid to protect the contents from dust and humidity. Place clean, completely dry bath mats inside, rolling or folding them neatly.
Use labels such as “Winter Bath Mats” or “Guest Room Mats” to identify them easily. If you’re storing mats for several months, consider tossing in a few silica gel packets or cedar chips to absorb moisture and prevent musty odors.
4. Hang Mats on Hangers in a Utility Closet
Bath mats with non-slip rubber backings can crack or warp if folded for long periods. A smart alternative is to hang them vertically using sturdy clip hangers or skirt hangers in a utility or laundry closet. This keeps the mats flat and aerated, reducing the chance of damage or odor buildup. If you have several mats, use a cascading hanger or pant hanger with multiple clips to hang them together. Hanging also makes it easy to spot clean or air them out regularly without re-stacking.
5. Store in Drawstring Mesh Bags for Ventilation
For those who value breathability, mesh drawstring bags are an excellent way to store bath mats—especially microfiber or cotton ones. The open-weave design allows air to flow freely, helping prevent mildew. You can hang these bags in a laundry room, closet, or hook them inside bathroom cabinets. Assign one bag per mat or sort them by size. This method is particularly useful if you rotate mats frequently, as you can grab the entire bag and take it to the bathroom or laundry at once.
6. Use a Decorative Basket in the Bathroom
If you’re storing extra bath mats for active use within the bathroom itself, a decorative basket or bin offers both function and style. Choose a woven or waterproof container that matches your bathroom decor and place it beside the tub or under the vanity. Fold the mats neatly and stack them inside, alternating textures and colors if needed. Not only is this storage method convenient, but it also adds a spa-like feel to your space. Just be sure to avoid putting damp mats directly into the basket without drying.
7. Vacuum Seal for Long-Term Storage
When you need to store bath mats for an extended period—such as after a seasonal change or while moving—vacuum sealing is ideal. Place completely dry mats inside vacuum-seal bags and use a vacuum hose to compress the contents. This significantly reduces the storage footprint and protects the mats from moisture, dust, and insects. Label each bag with the contents and date. Store these sealed bags in a closet, attic, or storage bin with climate control to prevent damage to rubberized backing or delicate fibers.
8. Utilize Drawer Dividers in Bathroom Cabinets
If your bathroom has deep vanity drawers, turn them into an organized bath mat storage zone using drawer dividers or bins. Fold each mat to fit the depth of the drawer and separate them by type: plush mats for winter, thinner ones for summer, and anti-slip for safety. Keeping them flat within drawers prevents wrinkling and makes them accessible for quick swaps. Add lavender sachets or cedar balls to keep them smelling fresh and repelling moisture-loving pests.
9. Repurpose a Magazine Rack for Compact Folding
A magazine rack might seem like an unlikely storage solution, but it can be ideal for folded bath mats in tight spaces. Choose a sturdy, upright model and fold your bath mats to a size that fits neatly inside. Place this near your laundry area, behind a door, or next to your vanity. This method works best with thinner mats or bath rugs and helps keep things tidy without requiring cabinet space. It’s an unexpected yet elegant solution for small bathrooms or minimalist homes.
10. Store in a Dedicated Laundry Basket for Weekly Rotation
For households that rotate bath mats frequently due to high usage, assigning a specific laundry basket or bin just for clean mats can streamline your routine. Keep this basket in the laundry room, linen closet, or even the bathroom. After washing, fold or roll clean mats and place them inside. This allows you to easily pull a fresh one each week without digging through mixed laundry or closet piles. Choose a breathable basket to allow any residual moisture to evaporate and avoid mildew.
Things to Consider When Storing Bath Mats
- Dry Completely Before Storage: Ensure bath mats are fully dry before placing them in storage. Damp mats can lead to mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors.
- Choose the Right Storage Location: Store bath mats in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading or damage over time.
- Organize by Size or Type: If you have multiple bath mats, consider organizing them by size, color, or purpose to make selection easier.
- Use a Dedicated Storage Container: Opt for a bin or basket that is easily accessible but still protects your bath mats from dust and potential damage.
- Rotate Regularly: To ensure even wear and longevity, rotate your bath mats regularly, especially if you have favorites that you use more often.
Taking these considerations into account will help maintain the quality and hygiene of your bath mats, making them both functional and aesthetically pleasing for your space.
Conclusion
Keeping an organized system for managing bath mats not only saves time but also helps maintain a cleaner and more hygienic household. By dedicating a specific space for clean mats and ensuring proper care, you can effortlessly keep bathrooms fresh and welcoming. A simple routine and the right storage solutions can make all the difference in streamlining your household chores. So, there you have it – a quick and easy guide on how to store bath mats.
