The right bath mat is about more than just picking a colour or pattern that matches your bathroom decor or expectations.
That's important too, of course. But we shouldn't forget about the primary job a bath mat is supposed to do. And that's mostly to keep you safe and your feet dry - some mats are better at that than others, so make sure your bath mat dries quickly.
Aesthetics, while important, should only come after these two. However, to do their job effectively, they need to fit right - and we don't just mean looks. It's much more basic than that. We're talking, of course, about the size. Ultimately, that's going to determine the most important aspect - compatibility.
The Big Three
A wrong size can ruin the fit, and the wrong fit can ruin everything - also your bathroom decor. That's rather disappointing.
A great-looking mat is not always that perfect choice for your space. But don't worry, we've got a simple trick that's going to save you from this potential disaster. All you have to do is ask yourself these 3 questions:
How big is your bathroom?
The bigger the bathroom, the easier it is to work with it. You've got more space - and possibilities.
In small bathrooms, you have to make every single piece count. But it's not necessarily about how limited your space is or not.
There's actually a not-so-little caveat here, remember to consider the size of your bathtub or shower, as it's even more important - your mat needs to fit that specific element of your bathroom.
Where do you want to place your bath mat?
Another important question - is it for a bathtub, your sink, shower or a toilet? Similar looks, different purposes and sizes. Figure out your bathroom's layout before you make your purchase.
What's your budget?
This is pretty simple, it's not just about the right size but also - the right price. More expensive doesn't necessarily mean better.
Answer the first two questions, and carefully consider your needs. If you need one for your shower, then a stone bath mat is definitely worth it, even with a slightly heavier price tag.
Measuring Your Bathroom
The first step in finding the right bath mat is to accurately measure your bathroom floor. Pick up a measuring tape to determine the available space around our strategic points: the bathtub, shower, sink, and toilet.
Take note of both the width and length of each space and element, as well as the distance between these fixtures. This will give you a clear idea of how much room you have to work with and help you avoid buying a mat that’s too large or too small.
Also, don't forget to factor in a door swing and cabinetry that might open into the bathroom space. You don’t want a bath mat that catches under the door or blocks drawers and cabinets.
And when you're deciding where to place the bath mat, think about where you need the most coverage or comfort. For instance, you might prefer a mat in front of the sink where you stand frequently, or outside the shower or bathtub to absorb excess water.
Bath Mat Sizes
Once you have measured your bathroom space, it’s time to consider the different shapes and sizes of available bath mats. Different styles of mats work best in different areas of the bathroom, so it’s important to choose one that fits both the space and the purpose.
Standard Bath Mats are the most common size, typically measuring around 20" x 30" or 24" x 36".
These mats are designed to fit comfortably in front of a shower or bathtub and provide adequate coverage for smaller to medium-sized bathrooms. They are versatile and easy to incorporate into almost any bathroom layout.
Bath Runners are longer and narrower, usually around 20" x 60" or 24" x 72". These mats are ideal for larger bathrooms or bathrooms with a longer layout.
They work well along the length of a double vanity or outside a walk-in shower, providing extended coverage and comfort. Runners can also help to visually elongate the entire bathroom space to make it feel bigger and more cohesive.
Contour Mats or U-Shaped Mats (also known as a pedestal mat) are specifically designed to fit around the base of a toilet. Measuring approximately 21" x 24", these mats are great for smaller bathrooms where space is limited.
They help protect the floor from moisture and provide comfort in an area that often gets wet.
Oversized Mats are larger than standard mats, typically around 30" x 50" or bigger. These are perfect for bathrooms with more floor space, offering maximum coverage and comfort.
Oversized bath rugs work well when placed in the centre of a large bathroom or in front of a wide double vanity, adding a luxurious touch.
An important note - every single one serves a different function, which means that one size isn't universally better than the other. It's all down to the purpose.
What Else to Consider
Look, at the end of the day, it's very much a standard purchasing decision. While its primary aspect is definitely the size, you don't want to forget about the rest - functionality, properties, style, value for money, and quality.
Material and Comfort
These are both key considerations. Look for bath mat materials that are soft underfoot but also durable and quick-drying.
A natural bath mat made from cotton or organic cotton is a popular choice thanks to its absorbency, softness, and luxurious feel. Cotton bath mats are among the most common on the market thanks to their machine washable and durable properties.
Microfibre Bath Mats offer quick-drying properties and are often less expensive, making them a practical choice for high-traffic bathrooms, however, they're not easy on the environment. Frequent washing can release microplastics into our waterways.
For a more luxurious feel, consider mats made from memory foam, which provides extra cushioning, or bamboo, which offers natural water resistance and a sleek look.
Then, the top-of-the-line products are made from a natural stone - diatomite. This mat has quick drying capabilities, and can go from soaking wet to dry in no time at all.
Colour and Pattern
Both colour and pattern are of course also very important.
Neutral colours like white, beige, or grey work best if you want to get a clean and classic look, while bolder hues or patterns can add personality and vibrancy, with a touch of quirkiness.
Think about the overall colour palette of your bathroom and choose a mat that either complements or contrasts nicely with the existing decor. A bold-coloured mat can serve as a focal point, while a neutral mat can blend seamlessly into the background.
Non Slip Properties
Non-slip backing is another critical feature to look for, as safety is one of the two most important tasks a bath mat is expected to deliver on - bathroom accidents happen, more often than you may think.
Opt for a mat with a non-slip backing, such as rubber, spray latex or silicone, to prevent slips and falls. Some mats even come with suction cups on the bottom for extra grip.
Placement & Fit
Fit may be king, but placement affects the fit. A mat that is too large may bunch up or slide around, while a mat that is too small may not provide adequate coverage or comfort.
Take the time to adjust the mat’s position to find the best fit for both function and aesthetics. Also, don't forget to take the purpose of the specific mat type into account.
Here are some answers to a handful of FAQs to help you out even more...
Should your bath mat match your towels?
While it's not necessary, matching your bath mat to your set of eco towels can create a nice and cohesive look. You can choose to match colours, patterns, or even textures to maintain a consistent theme in your bathroom.
What is the difference between a bath mat and a bath rug?
A bath mat is specifically designed to absorb water and provide a non-slip surface outside your shower or bathtub. Bath rugs, on the other hand, are usually larger, more decorative, and may not always have non-slip backing. They can be placed anywhere in the bathroom to enhance comfort and style.
Are all bath mats the same size?
No, bath mats come in a range of sizes and shapes to fit different bathroom layouts and personal preferences. Standard mats, runners, contour mats, and oversized mats all offer different dimensions to suit various needs and spaces.