The simple bathroom mat hack that could help prevent mould this winter

Winter brings plenty of challenges around the home.

Windows stay closed, bathrooms take longer to dry and damp towels and bath mats can remain wet for hours after use. Before long, that lingering moisture can create musty odours and even encourage mould growth.

Fortunately, one surprisingly simple bathroom hack has been winning praise online for helping bath mats dry faster.

The trick?

A standard plastic clothes hanger.

Why bathroom mats stay damp in winter

Bath mats are designed to absorb water, but that’s also what makes them difficult to dry.

During colder weather, bathrooms often have less airflow, meaning moisture remains trapped in fabrics for longer. Over time, damp bath mats can become breeding grounds for bacteria, mildew and unpleasant smells.

That’s why cleaning experts recommend drying bath mats thoroughly between uses whenever possible.

The clever hanger trick

Home and lifestyle creator Lauren recently shared her solution on social media.

Instead of leaving her bath mat flat on the floor after showering, she clips a plastic clothes hanger to the edge of the mat and hangs it over the shower screen or rail.

“It just makes logical sense,” she explained.

While some people initially described the idea as unusual, many quickly admitted they planned to try it themselves.

The reason it works is simple: lifting the mat off the floor allows air to circulate around both sides, helping it dry more quickly and reducing trapped moisture.

Other ways to keep bathroom mats fresh

If damp bathroom mats are a constant problem, these tips may also help:

Hang mats up after every use.

Wash bath mats regularly according to the care instructions.

Open windows when weather permits.

Use an exhaust fan during and after showers.

Avoid piling damp towels on top of mats.

Consider quick-drying microfibre bath mats.

Why preventing moisture matters

Bathrooms are one of the most common places for mould to develop in Australian homes.

Mould doesn’t just look unsightly. It can trigger allergies, worsen asthma symptoms and contribute to poor indoor air quality.

Keeping surfaces dry is one of the most effective ways to prevent mould before it starts.

And if all it takes is a spare clothes hanger, that might be one of the easiest cleaning wins you’ll find this winter.