Most people get area rugs for living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways, but few consider getting one for the bath. After all, it’s a hot, well-used, and often humid area—not exactly the place for a delicate rug. But that was years ago. With the variety of rug materials in the market, there’s no reason you can’t find one that’s bathroom-friendly or even one that suits your décor theme. Indeed, if you’re looking for a quick way to liven up your bath, shopping for rugs is your best bet.
So what makes a good bathroom rug? Like any other design element, it’s a combination of different factors, and the role each one plays depends on your particular needs. No two bathrooms are exactly alike, so it’s a personal decision. But that doesn’t mean it’s complicated; it’s just a matter of laying down your requirements and finding a rug that fits. With the range of available rugs, you will surely find one that works for you. This guide offers a few buying tips to help you find the perfect piece.
Invest in High-quality Material
Some rug materials are not suited for bathroom use. All-natural fibers like wool and organic cotton may be comfortable but not sturdy. Most bathroom rugs use chenille, a type of twisted yarn. Chenille is traditionally made of cotton, but synthetic fibers like rayon, acrylic, or polyester are normally used for bathroom rugs. This makes them more resistant to water damage and moisture problems such as mold and mildew.
Polypropylene area rugs also work well for the bathroom. Also called olefin, polypropylene is a plastic-like fiber designed to look and feel like real fabric. A polypropylene rug gives you the comfort and warmth of a natural fiber rug, such as cotton or wool, minus the high maintenance. Since it’s synthetic, it also comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, so it’s easy to coordinate it with your current bathroom décor. Just get a rug pad so it doesn’t slip around the floor.
Consider a Shaped Rug
One of the most common problems with bathroom rugs is that they tend to slide around, especially if you have slippery tiles. One way to prevent this is to get a rug with curved edges rather than the usual rectangular. Curved edges are less likely to fold over and loosen the rug, giving you a better grip on the floor. Shaped area rugs range from simple circular or oval pieces to irregular shapes like hearts, stars, or flowers.
Some manufacturers even offer “contour rugs” designed specifically for the bathroom. Often offered in sets, these rugs include a simple round or rectangular piece that hugs the toilet base and sometimes a matching cover for the toilet seat. This can be a good idea if you have a large bathroom, as one area rug may not always be enough. Take measurements before buying so you can be sure that the pieces will fit.
Experiment with Colors
Nowadays, area rugs do more than cover up your bathroom floor and absorb your footfall. They also add to the overall look and feel of the room and may even serve as the focal point. That’s why color and design should also be on your list when shopping for bathroom rugs. Since most baths come in plain neutral colors, experts recommend using bold, eye-catching pieces such as green or red area rugs.
You may also want to look into patterned rugs. Not all bathrooms will look good with a patterned rug, but when used properly, it can change the mood of your bathroom. Patterns usually work well in baths with mostly plain surfaces, as they offer a nice contrast and help break the monotony of your design. Likewise, a solid-colored rug may be more appropriate if you already have patterned tiles or counters.
Choose a Low-maintenance Rug
All rugs will need at least a bit of maintenance, which many buyers forget. Some rugs need to be cleaned once a week, while others can do a monthly cleaning. Consider how much time you’re willing to spend maintaining your bathroom rug. If you’re often too busy for a quick sweep, a simple synthetic material such as olefin may be right for you.
Sisal rugs are a good choice if you’re looking for a low-maintenance rug. Made from cactus fiber, sisal is one of the most durable natural materials. Besides area rugs, it’s also used for dartboards, industrial ropes, and even some large furniture pieces. A sisal rug requires just a quick sweep every other day, and with proper care, it can look and feel new for years.
Choosing Proper Size
When choosing a bath rug for your bathroom, selecting the right size is important to ensure comfort and safety. Here are some things to keep in mind:
First, you need to measure the space where you plan to place the rug in your bathroom. It’s important to leave enough room around the rug so the door can open and close easily.
If your bathroom has a unique layout, think about where you want to place the rug about other fixtures like the toilet, sink, and bathtub. You might need to get a custom-sized rug or cut a larger one to fit the space properly.
Bath rugs come in rectangular, square, oval, and circular shapes. Consider the shape of your bathroom and the fixtures within it when selecting the shape of your rug.
Standard sizes for bath rugs are 17×24 inches, 21×34 inches, and 24×40 inches. Choose a size that fits the available space and provides enough coverage to prevent slips and falls.
If you have mobility issues or require extra support, consider choosing a larger rug or a rug with a non-slip backing for added safety.
By keeping these things in mind, you can choose the right size of bath rug that fits your bathroom perfectly and provides the comfort and safety you need.
Bath Rugs Care And Maintenance
Keeping your bath rug in good condition is important to maintain its functionality and appearance. Here are some detailed tips on how to care for and maintain your bath rug:
Regular cleaning: It is crucial to clean your bath rug regularly to prevent dirt and bacteria from accumulating. Vacuuming or shaking the rug outside to remove loose debris is an easy way to keep it clean. It’s best to do this at least once a week, but more frequently if necessary.
Machine wash: Most bath rugs can be machine washed. Following the care label instructions is important to avoid damaging the rug’s fibers and backing. Use a mild detergent and cold water to wash the rug, and avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, as they can cause discoloration and damage the backing.
Hang to dry: After washing, hang the bath rug in a well-ventilated area. Drying it in direct sunlight can cause the colors to fade and damage the fibers. Avoid using a dryer, as the heat can also damage the rug.
Spot cleaning: Use a damp cloth to blot the affected area for small stains or spills gently. Avoid rubbing the stain, as it can damage the fibers. You can also use a mild detergent solution if the stain is stubborn, but rinse thoroughly.
Deep cleaning: If your bath rug requires a deep cleaning, consider using a carpet cleaner or taking it to a professional cleaner. Deep cleaning can help remove tough stains and odors that regular cleaning may not be able to remove.
Replace when necessary: If your bath rug shows signs of wear and tear, such as fraying or discoloration, or starts to smell even after cleaning, it’s time to replace it. A new bath rug can add a fresh look to your bathroom and provide better safety and comfort.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your bath rug remains hygienic, clean, and comfortable for a long time, making it a valuable addition to your bathroom.