Bath Mats

Thick cotton is soft, absorbent and machine washable. Memory foam feels cushioned underfoot but is slower to dry. Diatomaceous stone mats dry in seconds and need no washing, though they feel firm. Teak or bamboo mats suit wet rooms and walk-in showers, drain quickly and bring a spa-like warmth. Cotton suits most homes.

Non-slip backing stops a mat sliding, but latex or rubber can discolour some vinyl and natural stone floors and trap moisture over underfloor heating. Lift and dry the mat regularly, or choose one without backing and place a separate non-slip underlay beneath it. Check the care label, as rubber backing can break down in hot washes.

Once a week in a shared bathroom, and every two weeks at most for one person. Wash cotton mats at 40–60°C and dry them thoroughly before putting them back down to prevent mildew. Shake out or hang the mat over the bath between washes so it dries fully after each use.

A standard mat of around 50 × 80 cm suits most baths and showers. For a double basin or a long walk-in shower, a runner-style mat of 50 × 120 cm or more covers the area better. Choose a size that leaves a little floor visible around it, so it looks deliberate rather than squeezed in.