Air Dry Washed Mats/Towels

What happens in this clip

After the wash cycle, remove the wet bath mats or towels from the washing machine. To prevent damage to any rubber backing and ensure thorough drying, air dry them. You can drape them over a laundry basket, hang them over the back of a chair, or use a drying rack. The key is to ensure air can circulate on both sides of the mat/towel. Avoid putting rubber-backed mats in the dryer, as the heat can cause the rubber to degrade, crack, or melt, shortening the lifespan of the mat.

What's used

Tools

• Chair
• Laundry Basket

Pro tips for this step

• Oak Valley Designs Pro Tip: Always air-dry treads flat — a dryer or heat source warps the fibers and weakens the adhesive. Make sure the top and backing are fully dry before reattaching.

These safety tips are AI-generated and have not been verified by a professional. They may be incomplete or incorrect. Verify independently against manufacturer instructions and local codes, and consult a qualified professional before relying on them. This is not a substitute for professional advice.

About the full video

This instructional guide demonstrates how to restore the absorbency of towels and bath mats, which can become stiff or less absorbent due to detergent buildup. The process involves specific washing machine techniques, including the use of OxiClean and a white vinegar rinse, followed by air drying, to leave towels fluffy, odor-free, and more absorbent.

Step 4 of 4: The Final Touch: Air Dry for Perfect Adhesion

Whether you've just spot-cleaned a small spill or given your treads a full hand-wash, the final step is just as important for their longevity and your family's safety: always air dry them flat. Resist the temptation to use a clothes dryer or any artificial heat source; this can damage the fibers and, crucially, compromise the non-damaging adhesive backing that keeps your treads securely in place. Take your time and ensure each tread is completely dry – both the top and the backing – before reattaching it to your stairs. This prevents mildew and guarantees the optimal adhesion, offering you continued peace of mind and a better way to tread.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in how to clean and maintain carpet stair treads

1. Step 1: Keep Them Pristine: Weekly Vacuuming

   • 0:13–0:21 Gather Cleaning Supplies
   • 0:09–0:45 Prepare and Clean Stair Treads
   • 0:18–0:31 Clean the Stairs

2. Step 2: Act Fast: Spot Cleaning for Spills

   • 0:21–0:34 Apply Soapy Water to Stain

3. Step 3: The Oak Valley Difference: Gentle Hand-Washing

   • 0:34–0:42 Rinse with Clean Water
   • 0:21–0:34 Apply Soapy Water to Stain

4. Step 4: The Final Touch: Air Dry for Perfect Adhesion

   • 3:05–3:28 Air Dry Washed Mats/Towels (this video)
   • 0:42–0:51 Blot Dry and Repeat
   • 0:06 Dry and Finish