What If I’ve Already Laundered My Bathroom Mats?
In case you’ve washed bathroom mats in the past, it may not be too late.
If the play between the plastic tub and metal spin basket is less than 1/8-in., you should still have many years of service left with your washer. You can check this by opening the door and spinning the silver spin basket by hand. It should spin easily and smoothly with little noise.
If you hear a clunking noise as you spin it by hand, then you know it’s too late for your washer. Here’s a simple test to see if the washer is beyond repair:
– Step 1: Grab the big plastic outer tub front lip with one hand. Use your other hand to grab the silver metal spin basket.
– Step 2: Try to rock the spin basket up and down while keeping the plastic spin basket as still as possible. There should be little play.
If you hear a really loud sound while the washer is at high-speed spin, like a jet taking off, that indicates a worn-out rear bearing. Your washer will still work for a few more months, but it will get louder and louder and eventually fail to spin.
How Should I Clean My Bathroom Mats?
My customers often ask, ”What am I supposed to do with my dirty blankets and bathroom mats?” I tell them to use a coin laundry’s powerful, robust machines. Or if they keep washing heavy items, be prepared to buy a new washer every two to three years.
Other Items You Should Never Wash at Home
Six following items are too bulky or too heavy for at-home washing machines. Washing these items will greatly reduce your washer’s life span and may break your spin basket in just one washing:
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Comforters
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Sleeping bags
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Dog beds
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Drapes
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Weighted blankets
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Rugs
It’s best to use a coin laundry for these items.
