Our Intro to Let You Know: We're All About Quality Bath Mats 

Oh, hey there friend! Welcome back to The Neighborhood, our series of guides, articles, and resources dedicated to all things doormats and floor coverings. Today we’re going dive into one of our favorite subjects, and that’s the value of bath mats. Just in case you’re interested, you can see a more robust discussion about interior floor mats including kitchen mats, hallway runners, and bathmats in our article Interior Floor Mats: Stylish Workhorses for Your Home.

We’ll begin this piece off by telling you a little bit about who we are and what we do. At Matterly, our history is deeply rooted in matting and floor coverings; like 6 decades deep. From where we sit as we type out this article, a quick walk through one set of doors leads out to a manufacturing plant floor where thousands of floor mats are made every day. We’re making rubber, we’re extruding fibers, we’re printing on textiles, and it’s all being done right here in America.

Without further ado, let’s talk about bathmats.

Bathmats - The True Underdog of the Mat World 

Bathrooms are not often thought of as the top location for aesthetics and comfort – we’re there to, um, – take care of business and go about our lives, right? Well, yes! However, there is so much more to think of when it comes to accentuating your bathroom to be a place of tranquility and style. Yeah, that’s right. Did you know that quality floor mats that are used in the kitchen and other areas of the home also make awesome bathroom mats? Specifically, mats made with rubber-backing and closed-cell fibers like recycled polyester or polypropylene are great examples due to how well they hold up against moisture. What’s not to love about a multi-purpose mat? If you feel the same, then buckle up because we have some knowledge for you!

What Are Bath Mats, and Why Should Anyone Care? 

Bathroom mats are, understandably, forgotten at times and no, a wet used towel on the floor doesn’t count. Quality bathmats come in all sorts of shapes and materials, some provide temporary comfort, some provide much needed grip and traction, while others add a touch of style to an overused, yet underappreciated room in your home. Let’s get a little personal, how often do you spend time in the bathroom? Okay, that got weird quickly. How much time do you spend in the bathroom between preparing for work or a night out on the town? And how long do you typically stand in the same spot when getting ready? Whether they’re comforting your soles, protecting your home, or simply existing because it was time to own one since you’re a real adult now, bathmats are downright the support that we all need right now. Here’s why:

Stay Safe Out There, Little Rockstar

The bathroom can be a hazard for falls and injuries, which could lead to some painful (and awkward) situations. Look for high-traction floor mats made with rubber backing to keep your feet firmly planted, helping to reduce the risk of said painful (and awkward) situations. The textured surfaces provide an extra grip, making them a smart choice for households with kids, elderly family members, or dogs with zoomies. No more frantic windmill arms trying to stay upright! 

Only Happy Feet Over Here

We all like to put our best foot forward when we’re headed somewhere, and that foot usually starts in the bathroom. Bathmats, especially those of the anti-fatigue varieties, provide cushioned support that makes getting ready a bit more bearable. These mats reduce stress on your legs, feet, and back, turning your bathroom into the little oasis that everyone deserves to enjoy. Thinking you need to book a trip to get back some peace and comfort? Nah, just head to the bathroom.

Protect Your Floors and You! 

Bathroom floors see it all—toothpaste debris, hair dye splatter, missing fake eyelashes you swore you threw away, and the list only continues. Bath mats act as a protective barrier, shielding your floors from the daily chaos of life. Most importantly, anti-slip protection.  Bath mats that have slip resistant backings, like rubber, help keep everything (and everyone) you love in place, so you can take care of business without slipping and sliding. It’s like a safety net for your bathroom floors—literally!

Comfortable AND Aesthetically Pleasing? You Got That Right!

Not sure about you, but we spend a lot of time in the bathroom. From shower concerts to making sure every hair is in place prior to starting the day, we certainly capitalize time in the facilities. That being said, if staying comfortable is a necessity for you, consider a super-soft anti-fatigue mat. Standing comfort mats embrace your feet and provide a haven from the cold, hard floors of your bathroom. Premium super-soft bathmats embrace your feet as you step out of the bath, providing a safe landing and keep your feet comfy and cozy. Another great perk? They’re easy on the eyes. You can often find that most premium mats are available in a range of colors and patterns to really nail any aesthetic you’re looking for. Not only are you getting a mini foot massage each time you’re trimming your moustache, but your bathroom looks good while you’re doing it!

Who Benefits from Bathmats (You'd Be Surprised)

One of the best parts about bath mats? Everyone is going to use them! Yep, it’s that simple. At some point in the day (we hope), you or someone else in your home will step into your bathroom and onto one of these bathmats or a bathroom runner. It’s easy to say that everyone is going to use them, but let’s break it down a little further:

Families with Kids and Pets! 

Ok, let’s be honest—kids and pets are kind of slobs sometimes. Yet, you love them anyway. Want to know what you’ll love just as much? A rug in the bathroom that will help catch spills, weird foreign objects you’re not really sure where they came from, and whatever else that made its way into your home. What’s better than that? Not only are they safe, but they are easy to clean! Once the spills and other chaos have made its way into your bathroom, simply wipe up the mat or toss it in the washer. Don’t waste your time cleaning yet another mess. You have better things to do!

A Party of One

Maybe you don’t have kids or a pet and perhaps you’re the messy one. No judgement over here! The fun part is that you get to choose your own adventure when it comes to selecting which bathroom runner or bathmat is going to jazz up your space. The downside, no one else will be there to clean it for you. Consider a bathmat with a wipeable surface which makes cleanup quick and simple!

Aesthetic Seekers

Have a Pinterest board plastered with ideas to make your home more Instagram ready? Take it back to the early 2000’s (without the weird decorating and duck lips) and host your next photoshoot in your perfectly designed bathroom. Whether it’s a minimalistic print, bohemian fantasy, or maybe a personalized mat that claims your side of the bathroom, a carefully selected, premium bath mat will allow for you to leave your mark with personality and a keen sense of style--bet you didn’t think a bathroom mat could do all of that!

Anyone with Joint or Back Pain

Standing on hard floors is not ideal for anyone, especially if you have joint or back issues. Look to outfit your bathroom with a soft anti-fatigue mat. These bathroom mats are like a soft hug for your feet, offering the support you need to carry out your bathroom priorities in absolute comfort. You’ll be surprised just how quickly you will feel the difference and so will the rest of your body.

Timing is Everything: When is it Time to Bring on the Bathmat?

While cushy bath mats are pretty snazzy, they’ll become your best unkept secret against bathroom fatigue and floor damage. Here are the best times to bring on the bath mat:

Everyday Use 

Let’s face it, you’re going to be in the bathroom at some point in the day – every day. A lot more goes on in there than you would expect. From daily grooming routines, solo Broadway musical auditions, makeshift tiny clinics for when life’s scrapes and bruises happen, and so much more. So why not make your time spent there a bit more enjoyable with a soft mat to support you? There are already some of the best bath mats out there, so take a leap of faith and land on the comfiest mat that is suited to your needs.

High-Slip Zones

Bathrooms are expected to get messy. You go in a hot mess and a little while later, a brand new you emerges, but a lovely mess is left behind. The sink area, shower space, and the, umm you know… human waste receptacle station are all in the red zone for slips, splatter, and spills. Rubber-backed bath mats are champions at capturing the moisture from daily routines, helping keep your floors safer. Do yourself a favor and place a bath runner or rug in these high-spill zones.

Get the Yuck Outta Here! 

It’s inevitable, bathrooms are breeding grounds for mold and mildew, and no amount of scrubbing bubbles is going to save us. Wrong! The right rug in the bathroom can help to keep those yuckies at bay, we all have business to take care of after all. Look for quick-drying materials like closed-cell fibers or treated fabrics that resist moisture buildup, keeping your bathroom cleaner and fresher. It’s like having a built-in defense system against those pesky bathroom invaders. 

Place Bath Mats Where they Matter the Most in Your Space

Having a good understanding of proper bathmat placement doesn’t seem like a groundbreaking concept, but you’d be surprised how impactful it can actually be. Here’s where bathroom mats work best and why you should consider filling your space with comfort, style and functionality.  

In Front of the Bathroom Vanity 

Think of everything you do in front of your bathroom sink on a daily basis. Between splattering of toothpaste, makeup sessions, grooming routines, and so much water spillage; your sink area sees a lot of action. A quality bathroom comfort mat will not only protect your floors, but it will also provide a comfy spot to stand while you brush those pearly whites, accentuate your natural beauty, shave your beard, and pluck your eyebrows into oblivion the way 1995 intended. Think of it as your personal glam and hygiene stage—only with the added comfort your feet deserve! Even better, the best bathroom mats and bath runners will protect your floors from stains and are wipeable to allow you to quickly tidy up before you go about your day.

In Front of the Walk-Out Shower

Have you ever stepped into the shower and did not close the curtain all the way and afterwards you were welcomed by a small Great Lake? What about when you step out of the shower and forget to grab a towel and now, you’re forced to make small, awkward leaps to the towel cabinet leaving behind a trail of water? The solution you need is a water-resistant bath mat that excels at trapping and containing water and moisture. Bath mats that feature closed-cell fibers like PET work best in these areas. Also, consider thin bathmats in a low-profile construction to help transition in and out of the shower.

Alongside the Bathtub

Who likes getting out of a nice warm bath to step onto cold, wet tile? Not to mention that awkward first step out has produced many interesting poses over the years. The simple solution is to implement a bathroom runner alongside your bathtub. Do you make it rain when you get out of the tub? Opt for a bathmat that has absorption or dissipative qualities like our WaterHog Luxe mats. Is bath time with a toddler still a main event in your home? Go for an anti-fatigue mat with water-resistant surfaces like our Happy Feet comfort mats that allow you to hold onto those moments just a little longer.

What Makes Bath Mats so Great: A Construction Breakdown

Not all bathroom mats are created equal! Let’s take a deeper dive into what different types of bathmats are made with and what will make them effective in your daily life:

Anti-Fatigue Bathmats

Built for comfort, top-quality bathmats are layered with foam, gel, or rubber that provides support and bounce. These comfort mats are awesome tools at helping reduce aches and pains that often come from standing on cold hard floors. These solutions against discomfort commonly feature a wipeable, easy-to-clean surface like vinyl or a carpeted top consisting of resilient fibers like PET or nylon. Think of them like the pillow-top mattress of the mat world—perfect for someone who appreciates a little more support in their life. It’s like having your very own squishy cloud to stand on.

Low-Profile Bath Rugs

Call it a rug, call it a mat, but if you’re looking for a sleek solution that lays flat and stays put, you’re probably in the market for a low-profile bath rug or bathmat. Measuring in at .25" or less, the benefit of these bathmats lie in their slim construction, helping reduce the risk of trips while blending in seamlessly with its surroundings. Trust us, nothing wrong with keeping a low profile in the bathroom.

Easy-To-Clean Bathmats

If your cleaning regimen is an exhaustive never-ending list, maybe you should consider an easy-to-clean wipeable bathmat. These mats will feature a waterproof surface that allows for the easy capture of moisture and water with your towel or rag without being a slip hazard. Wipeable bathroom mats are commonly constructed with a vinyl or pvc surface which lends itself to the wipeable feature. These mats will also often feature vibrant and crisp designs as these are often high-resolution printed surfaces.

Rubber-Backed Bathmats

No other room in the home is subjected to the effects of water than the bathroom, especially the bathroom floors. If traction and safety are important to you and your family, consider implementing bathmats with rubber backing. Rubber-backed mats are great tools to provide enhanced traction in areas constantly exposed to moisture; think the shower, bathtub, or vanity. Even better, quality rubber-backed mats will not crack or rot while being resistant to mold and mildew. Win-win.

Carpet Surface Bath Mats

There’s something nice about stepping onto a nice, carpet surface bare footed. Small accent rugs or floor mats with a carpet fiber surface work wonders in the bathroom, but it’s important to consider the fiber material. Natural fibers, like cotton, are soft and great at absorbing water. However they do take a considerable amount of time to dry and must be cleaned and dried frequently to prevent mold or mildew. Closed cell fibers, like PET, are great at trapping moisture and dissipating rather than absorbing. This means they dry at a faster rate than natural fibers and also are resistant to mold and mildew.

Bath Mat Maintenance to Keep Them Looking and Feeling Their Best

Keeping your bathroom mats or bath runners clean and shouldn’t have to be a chore. By following these simple mat care tips, you will be sure to keep your mat looking as good as they feel:

Spot Clean Spills Immediately 

Life’s messy— and so are bathrooms. Clean up spills right away to prevent stains from setting. A little soap and water will usually do the trick, but always check your mat’s care instructions.

Never Use Bleach or Harsh Chemicals to Clean

In an effort to get the most out of your mat, it is recommended that you steer clear of all bleach and harsh cleaning chemicals to treat your premium bathmat. If you need a deeper cleaning tip to ensure that your mat is cleaned to your liking, use a gentle cleaning solution and wipe clean. Don’t forget to allow the bathmat to completely dry before use.

Rotate and Keep Your Mats Inside

Some quality bath mats and bathroom runners are printed, and the pattern is likely to fade over time. In order to reduce fading, avoid extended exposure to direct sunlight. Swap your mats around every now and then to distribute wear evenly. It’s a simple trick that keeps all your mats looking fresh and extends their lifespan. It’s like playing musical chairs, but with mats—everyone wins!

Clean Spaces Around Your Bathmat

While your bathmat is waterproof, before you put your bath mat or bathroom runner back in place, always ensure both the mat and your floor are dry before placing the mat back in its place. Another good practice is to also be sure to remove any moisture that may become trapped under your mat over time, this will make for an easier cleanup!

Conclusion: Maximize Your Bathroom Time with the Right Mat

Whether you’re after a plush, luxurious feel or a practical, quick-drying solution, there’s a bathroom mat out there to suit your needs. Remember, your bathroom is one of the most-used rooms in your home, and it deserves the same level of attention to detail as the rest of your space.

Investing in a quality bathroom mat not only elevates your decor but also protects your floors and keeps your family safe. So, go ahead and indulge in a little bathroom upgrade without the demolition - you deserve it!

A Little Info to Let You Know…

We like to give you, the reader, a little info as to who we are. At Matterly, our history is deeply rooted in matting and floor coverings; like 6 decades deep. From where we sit as we type out this article, a quick walk through one set of doors leads out to a manufacturing plant floor where thousands of floor mats are made every day. We’re making rubber, we’re extruding fibers, we’re printing on textiles, and it’s all being done right here in America.