At first glance, picking the perfect mat for your bathroom is pretty straightforward. But when you actually take the time to learn more about the topic, it turns out that it’s way more complicated than it seems, with various materials, fabrics, and solutions available.
Hopefully, we can help you out of this rabbit hole you’ve found yourself in by guiding you to select the best bath mat for your needs.
Today, we’re taking a closer look at rubber bath mats. They’ve been around for quite some time, but rubber is probably associated more with the special non-slip backing used in most types of bath mats for safety.
Still, as far as materials go, rubber may seem like a perfect low-maintenance option. Affordable and hassle-free. Is it the right choice, though? Is it sustainable?
Let’s see if that’s really the case.
Synthetic Rubber vs. Natural Rubber Bath Mats
First of all, we have to make a very important distinction because the fact is rubber bath mats are not all created equal. That’s because of the material they’re made of – rubber, which is an umbrella term for a rather large group.
Some use synthetics (like silicone bath mats), others go for natural rubber.
Synthetic rubber is made in a lab, usually from materials like styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) or ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM).
The natural one is made from latex – a naturally occurring, organic substance extracted from different types of trees. There are about 20,000 different tree species producing it, but the main source is Hevea brasiliensis. It doesn't exactly roll off the tongue, but thankfully, it also has a less scientific name - a rubber tree.
Latex is extracted directly from the trunk of the tree. It has a milky texture, and chemically, it’s a polymer. Some evidence suggests it’s been in use since 1600 BC by the South American Olmec tribe to make medicine.
|
Feature |
Rubber Bath Mat |
Natural Rubber Bath Mat |
|
Material |
Synthetic rubber (may contain additives) |
100% natural rubber (eco-friendly) |
|
Durability |
Long-lasting but may degrade over time |
Highly durable and biodegradable |
|
Grip |
Strong suction for anti-slip protection |
Similar grip, often softer texture |
|
Eco-Friendliness |
Typically non-biodegradable |
Much more environmentally friendly |
|
Odor |
Can have a chemical smell initially |
Minimal odour, more natural scent |
|
Maintenance |
Requires regular cleaning |
Easier to clean with fewer chemical concerns |
|
Variety |
Plenty of options designed for specific uses – far beyond the world of bath and shower mats |
Little to no variety |
|
Wear & Tear |
Good resistance to wear and tear, high temperatures, or oxygen exposure |
Average |
If sustainability is a priority for you, a natural rubber bath mat is a great alternative. It offers the same non-slip safety while being biodegradable and free from synthetic additives.
There’s a bit of a dark side to it, too – but more on that later.
Rubber Bath Mats – The Bright Side
Now that we’ve addressed the key differences, we can focus on the benefits of having a rubber bath mat. And quite frankly, there are many.
1. Excellent Non-Slip Properties
The number one reason people choose rubber bath mats? Safety. Rubber, natural or synthetic, has a naturally grippy texture, and with suction cups on the bottom, it clings securely to the floor. Suction pads enhance the non-slip properties by providing additional grip, ensuring the mat stays in place. That reduces the risk of slips and falls. If safety is a priority in choosing your shower mat (and it definitely should be high on the list), there’s no denying that a rubber bath mat is a solid choice.
2. Water Resistance
Some bath mats get soggy, take forever to dry, and end up smelling damp. Rubber mats? Completely water-resistant. They don’t absorb moisture, which makes them ideal for wet environments like bathrooms and showers. It’s not an absorbent bath mat, but it's still a viable option.
3. Durability & Longevity
Rubber bath mats are built to last. Unlike fabric mats that fray over time, rubber holds up well to daily use. It doesn’t wear out quickly and can handle repeated exposure to water and soap without degrading. Additionally, rubber bath mats can withstand machine washing, contributing to their durability.
Rubber Bath Mats – The Dark Side
As practical as they are, rubber bath mats do have a few downsides worth considering. The underside of rubber bath mats can become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold if not properly cleaned.
1. Mildew and Mould Buildup
While rubber itself doesn’t absorb water, the underside of the mat can trap moisture, leading to mildew buildup if not properly cleaned. That means they do require regular washing and air drying to prevent this. Additionally, keeping the bathroom floor dry can help prevent mildew and mold buildup under rubber bath mats.
2. Appearance & Aesthetic
Let’s be honest – rubber bath mats aren’t always the most stylish option. While some come in sleek designs, they tend to lean more towards function over form. Sure, they may make up for it with their wide variety of colours and patterns, but overall, rubber doesn’t exactly scream luxury. It may also be a bit tricky to coordinate with a set of bamboo towels or any other type of eco towels. And it doesn’t matter if you go for a natural or synthetic rubber option. If aesthetics matter, you might find other materials more appealing. Organic cotton bath mats, for instance, offer a more aesthetically pleasing alternative with their elegant look and sustainable properties.
3. Regular Cleaning Required
A rubber mat may not soak up moisture, but that doesn’t mean it stays spotless. Soap scum and grime can accumulate over time, so a quick scrub every few weeks keeps it in good condition. Grim, dirt, debris… They can seriously affect durability. That’s the thing with rubber bath mats – you’re always one tear away from throwing them out. Low maintenance doesn’t mean no maintenance. Regular machine wash is still required to maintain hygiene and prevent mold buildup.
4. Sustainability Dilemma
Synthetics are obviously bad for the plant, and rubber is no exception. Thankfully, there’s a natural option that’s 100% eco-friendly and 100% recyclable... Or is there? There are quite a few problems with natural rubber extraction, and they have to do with the issues of deforestation, biodiversity loss, and pollution. Moreover, many “natural” models contain additives, and just because they’re 100% recyclable, it doesn’t mean they’re going to be recycled. With no anti-microbial properties, they’re often beyond repair if not cleaned regularly. Plus, only specialised centres would even consider recycling them – IF that makes sense. Their overall reusability value is quite low.
5. Allergies
Not a huge concern for most, but some people are allergic to latex. In that case, this is not a suitable choice. It may sound nitpicky, but it’s just something to keep in mind.
How to Keep a Rubber Bath Mat Clean
It’s plain to see that proper maintenance and a cleaning routine are a non-negotiable must if you want your rubber mat to last. To keep it fresh and hygienic, follow these simple steps:
- Rinse After Use – A quick rinse removes soap and shampoo residue.
- Deep Clean Weekly – Soak in a mix of warm water and vinegar or use a mild bleach solution to prevent mould.
- Let It Air Dry – Avoid folding it up or leaving it in a damp spot. Hang it over the tub or place it somewhere with good airflow.
- Scrub Suction Cups – Mould tends to form under the suction cups, so give them a scrub now and then.
Rubber versus Diatomite
It’s not a perfect product, but definitely an option worth considering for someone who values functionality and simplicity over looks at a more affordable price.
How does it compare to a stone bath mat? Let’s take a quick look.
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Rubber Mat → Best for safety, durability, and affordability. Needs regular cleaning but lasts long.
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Diatomite Mat → Absorbs water instantly, dries fast, and looks sleek.
So, which one’s right for you? Overall, a diatomite stone mat has much more to offer across the board.
It doesn’t mean natural rubber is a bad material for a bath mat – it has a lot to offer. Low cost, minimal maintenance, practicality. There’s plenty to like.
It may not be the ultimate bathroom product, it may look bleak in comparison to diatomite mats…
But at the end of the day, it’s about what works best for you and your space.
