The Benefits of a Bath Mat
A bath mat is a soft, absorbent mat on which guests stand after toweling off from the bathtub or shower. They can be made of cotton, chenille, microfiber and other fabrics.
Offering a bath mat in your hotel, spa or gym is an easy way to offer guests safety, comfort and luxury. Here are a few considerations when selecting the right one for your facilities:
Safety
The bathroom is a dangerous place for falls, especially for young children and older adults with mobility limitations. A bath mat can help prevent serious injuries by reducing the risk of slipping and falling. These rugs typically have a non-slip backing, often rubber or latex. Some may also feature a textured surface that provides extra grip.
Some are made of cotton or another highly absorbent material, which keeps the floor dry and reduces the likelihood of slipping on wet linoleum or tile floors. kitchen products supplier The fabric is soft and comfortable underfoot, and some have a cushioned feel, making them ideal for use in master bathrooms, kids’ bedrooms and vacation homes.
Other bath rugs are made of nylon or other synthetic materials that are quick drying and easy to clean. They are not as stylish as rugs made from natural materials, but they are durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic. They are suitable for bathrooms with tile or vinyl flooring, and some have a textured surface to increase grip.
Regardless of the material, it is important to consider the size and shape of the bath mat when purchasing one. Choose a rug that is the right size for your bathroom, and consider buying a bath mat set to maintain a uniform look. Additionally, make sure the rugs are machine washable to keep them free of mildew and other debris between washes.
Convenience
A bath mat provides convenience for guests as they get out of the tub or shower. It absorbs excess water and prevents the floor from becoming soaked in and potentially damaging tile, linoleum or hardwood floors. It also prevents guests from falling on wet surfaces, which can be particularly dangerous for elderly and handicapped guests.
Depending on the style and type of bath mat you select, it may be rubber-backed to help it remain in place or may simply cling to the floor using its own grippy surface. It can be machine washed or hand washed and dried to keep it clean between uses. If the mat does not have a rubber backing, it should be hung up to allow air to circulate and prevent mildew build-up.
There are many types of bath mats available, including those made with cotton and microfiber. These can be purchased in various colors to coordinate with any bathroom decor theme. Another choice is a natural cork bath mat, which provides excellent traction and can be wiped down after use. This is an eco-friendly option that also resists mold growth and is quick to dry.
Those with limited mobility or who are at risk of falls in the tub can benefit from a foam non-slip mat, like this one from Buganda. The memory foam conforms to the foot and helps to prevent slippage. It also dries quickly and requires little maintenance, making it ideal for a busy household or hotel room.
Style
A bath mat may be considered a decorative accent or a functional necessity, but either way it should reflect your personal style. Choose a color that coordinates with your towels, shower curtain, and wall color for a unified look, or opt for a more bathmat eye-catching style. Many bath mats come in a variety of patterns, hues, and textures, so you can find one that suits your bathroom.
A more traditional choice, this bath mat features a classic striped pattern in a soft, neutral color. Its 750-gram weight and tufted construction are durable and low-maintenance. It’s also machine-washable, though it does pick up some lint the first few times you launder it.
If you want a more exotic option, this bath mat has a bold tile-like design that adds visual interest to any bathroom. Its woven cotton construction is also durable and absorbent, and it’s available in four other colors.
A less familiar style is this bath mat made from natural earth stone or diatomaceous clay, which isn’t only eco-friendly and anti-mildew but also non-slip and super-absorbent. It’s not as comfy for standing on but is ideal for stepping out of the shower or bathtub. The textured surface is marketed as anti-mildew and anti-bacterial, and it’s even designed to minimize mold growth by drawing moisture away from surfaces underneath it.
Durability
When shopping for a bath mat, it’s important to consider the material. Cloth bath mats can trap moisture and allow mildew to grow, especially if they are used daily. However, there are options made of natural or synthetic materials that offer the comfort and style of a cloth mat but require less frequent washing.
For example, a tufted cotton mat is a stylish option that feels soft on your feet but requires less maintenance than other types of bath mats. It’s also machine-washable and can be hung to dry quickly, which helps reduce the risk of mold and mildew growth.
Another durable choice is a wood bath mat. This option can transform your bathroom into a spa-like space and can be treated to resist mildew, mold and bacteria. Wood such as acacia and teak is naturally resistant to moisture, so it will keep your bathroom dry and smelling fresh while protecting your floors from damage.
Regardless of what material you choose, it’s a good idea to turn on your bathroom fan or open a window during and after your shower so that the mat has an opportunity to air out between uses. This will help to cut down on steam build-up, which can seep into both soft and hard surfaces in your bathroom and encourage the growth of mildew and mold.
