"If it's the same bat." Great. I don't get the impression that they have much training in dealing with the public. I mean, yes, if there is one bat in the washing machine (!!!!!) there might be more bats around the place and they have to think about that, but nevertheless, it is not practical to just demand you watch the bat and never take your eyes off it to make sure it's the same one.

I do not blame you an iota for avoiding that washing machine. I hope the apartment management reacts suitably to the situation.

P.