You're doing the laundry wrong! Experts reveal how often you should really clean your bath mat - so, are you washing it enough?

It's the bathroom item you likely use every day – but have you ever given much thought to how often you should wash your bath mat?

Experts have warned the common item, used by millions of people across the country, could be spreading germs and making us ill.

And washing it once or twice a year simply isn't enough.

'Bath mats are an overlooked item that can hold onto moisture and bacteria,' experts at Plumbworld said.

'They soak up water every time you step out of the shower, and if they stay damp, mould can quickly start to grow underneath, especially on mats with rubber backs that trap water. 

'The best way to avoid this is to wash bath mats weekly on a hot cycle and dry them thoroughly, either outside or on a radiator. Try not to leave them flat on the floor when they're wet, as that traps moisture.'

If your mat has dark spots or a mildew smell, it's best to throw it away and buy a new one, they added.

Worryingly, the bath mat isn't the only thing you need to keep an eye on – several other items are also at risk of becoming germ–infested. 

The specialists said that because bathrooms are warm and damp, they're the perfect place for bacteria and mould to grow.

Over time, everyday essentials can collect germs that might cause skin problems, stomach bugs or breathing issues if they're not cleaned or replaced often enough.

Another item you should be wary of is old toothbrushes, the company said.

'Your toothbrush is one of the most used items in your bathroom but also one of the dirtiest,' it explained.

'The bristles can trap bacteria and toothpaste residue, and if it's kept too close to the toilet, it can pick up germs from the fine spray released when you flush, known as 'toilet plume' which can settle on nearby items like toothbrushes.

'Over time, the brush stops cleaning properly and can actually spread germs in your mouth instead of removing them.'

Experts recommend replacing your toothbrush every three months, or sooner if the bristles look worn. Always rinse it well after brushing, shake off any water and store it upright so it can dry completely.

Shower loofahs and sponges, meanwhile, collect dirt, moisture and soap residue – the perfect breeding grounds for bacteria. They should also be rinsed after every use, washed once a week in hot water and be replaced every month or two.

Old towels can also be a hidden source of bad smells and germs as they collect dead skin, oils and bacteria.

'These should be washed every three or four uses at a hot temperature of at least 60°C,' Plumbworld said.

'If they start to smell musty or feel rough, it's time to replace them ideally every couple of years to stay fresh and hygienic.'

Finally, old toiletries and cosmetics can gather bacteria – especially when kept in a warm, steamy space.

Using out–of–date toiletries can irritate your skin, eyes or scalp, the experts warned, adding: 'Keeping lids tightly closed and storing products in a cool, dry place helps prevent bacteria from spreading.'

They concluded: 'Even if your bathroom looks perfectly clean, it's worth taking a closer look at the items you use every day. Simple habits like replacing old toothbrushes, washing towels often and drying bath mats properly can make your bathroom a much healthier place for you and your family.'