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1. It Can Ruin the Drain Motor
Bathroom mats often have a rubber backing that breaks down in the wash cycle. The small rubber pieces can clog the drain pump and motor.
This often requires replacing the drain motor, which typically costs around $240 for parts and labor. Even mats without rubber backing can still damage the drain motor. Long fibers from certain mats break off and block the drain.
2. It Can Damage the Spin Basket Bearing
The rear bearing that supports the spin basket endures a lot of strain from the heavy, soaked bathroom mats and the centripetal force during the spin cycle. Once this bearing fails, repairs can cost upwards of $500. The spider bracket that holds up the spin basket may also break due to the excessive weight, and fixing that costs about the same.
Recently, a customer with a two-year-old LG washer contacted me about a loud spin cycle, caused by a worn-out rear bearing. He frequently washed heavy items like bathroom mats and blankets in his machine. I had to break the bad news that the repair would cost more than $500, and it would be more cost-effective to replace the washer entirely. Now, he’s looking at spending $1,200 on a new washer, while his broken machine heads to a landfill.
Pro Tip: Washing machine manufacturers should warn customers about washing bathroom mats!
What If I’ve Already Washed My Bathroom Mats?
What If I’ve Already Washed My Bathroom Mats?
If you’ve washed bathroom mats before, it might not be too late to save your washer.
You can check the play between the plastic tub and metal spin basket. If it’s less than 1/8 inch, your washer probably has many years of life left. Here’s how to check:
Open the washer door and manually spin the silver spin basket. It should rotate smoothly and quietly.
If you hear clunking, your washer may already be too damaged.
For a more thorough test, grab the outer plastic tub with one hand and the metal spin basket with the other. Try to rock the spin basket up and down while holding the plastic tub as still as possible. There should be little to no movement.
If you hear a loud noise like a jet taking off during the spin cycle, that’s a sign of a worn-out rear bearing. Your washer may work for a few more months, but the noise will get worse until the machine stops spinning entirely.
Pro Tip: Keep your machine in good shape by regularly cleaning the washing machine filter.
How Should I Clean My Bathroom Mats?
When customers ask me how to clean bathroom mats, I suggest using the heavy-duty machines at a coin laundromat. Or, if they insist on washing bulky items at home, I advise them to be prepared to replace their washer every two to three years.
Other Items You Should Never Wash at Home
Here’s a list of items that are too bulky or heavy for most home washers. Washing these at home will shorten the life of your washer and may even break the spin basket after just one wash:
Comforters
Sleeping bags
Dog beds
Drapes
Weighted blankets
Rugs
The best option is to take these items to a coin laundry.
Looking for more laundry tips? Check out our guide to laundry symbols and how to properly care for your clothes.
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