How to Choose the Best Bathroom Mat for Your Needs
The right bath rug or mat can provide comfort and safety but also enhance the overall aesthetic of your home. When buying bathroom rugs and mats, there are many options available. They range from high-end, luxury bathroom rug sets to functional and affordable non slip bathroom mats.
Bathroom rugs and mats have similarities but also important differences. Consider these differences when deciding between a bathroom rug or mat:
- Bathroom rugs have more in common with the standard rugs that you might use in other rooms of your home. They tend to be more decorative and are a wonderful choice for someone who’s primarily interested in enhancing the general aesthetic of their living space.
- Bathroom rugs don’t always have non slip properties and are generally less efficient at absorbing excess moisture than a non slip bathroom mat.
- If you’re looking for function over fashion and simply want something that’ll prevent wet floors and slippage-related accidents, a non slip bathroom mat is probably the best option.
Questions to Consider Before Choosing a Bathroom Rug or Mat
As we’ve discussed above, choosing bathroom rugs or mats for a home typically comes down to your functional goals, home décor budget and personal style preferences.
How Much Does a Bathroom Mat Cost?
Bathroom rugs or mats of reasonable quality range in cost but are usually quite affordable. Generally speaking, the more features a rug or mat has, then the higher its price will be. These features may include extra softness, increased absorbency and anti-slip properties. A higher-end bathroom mat will likely last longer, which may save you more money over time. Cheaper bathroom mats tend to wear out faster, so you may need to replace them on a more frequent basis.
What’s the Best Bathroom Mat Material?
If you’ve decided to purchase a bathroom mat, the next step is to choose a material. The most common choice is cotton, as it’s both sturdy and soft. Microfiber is another soft option, while bamboo and teak have a more sturdy, solid feel.
What Are the Different Types of Bathroom Mats?
Bathroom mats are available in many shapes and sizes. They can be solid and sturdy or soft and plush. In general, the three most common materials for bathroom mats are wood (e.g., bamboo or teak), woven (e.g., cotton), and synthetic (e.g., microfiber and memory foam).
Each type of bathroom mat offers a unique set of benefits and drawbacks:
- Wood: Bamboo and teak mats are often more durable than their softer counterparts. You can also treat them with a varnish to prevent mold and mildew buildup, so they’re relatively low-maintenance options. However, not everyone prefers the tougher texture of a wood mat.
- Woven: Good cotton bathroom mats are easy to wash and effective at absorbing water.
- Synthetic: Microfiber and memory-foam mats typically dry quickly and provide additional cushioning and support for the feet.
How Often Should You Clean Your Bathroom Rug or Mat?
Generally, you should wash a bathroom mat at least once every one to two weeks or more frequently in a shared bathroom. If you start noticing stains or signs of mold and mildew on your bathroom rug or mat, then it’s time to clean it.
Be sure to follow the wash instructions on the tag. Choose a machine-washable bathroom rug for easier cleaning.