What makes the best bath rugs?
A good bath rug is integral to the comfortable use of a bathroom. The choices however, can easily make rug selection a daunting task. The best bath rugs enhance the bathroom decor while providing a comfortable walking surface. Here are some attributes of the best bath rugs.
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Comfort
Comfort is critical to a good bath rug since they are used by bare feet. The rug offers a cushioned, soft surface as opposed to the cold bathroom tiles. The feel of the rug underfoot depends on its textile. Plush, high pile rugs can give a luxurious spa-like feel. Hand-tufted or hand hooked rugs have a rich appeal. Absorbent materials like 100% cotton assure good comfort.
Utility
Absorption power
Bath rugs provide a dry surface by absorbing the water that splashes or drips onto the bathroom floor. Hence, the rug textile should allow quick absorption.
Anti-slip
Considering that the bathroom can be an accident-prone area, the bath rug should have good anti-slip performance. It should not shift and wrinkle upon use, since this can cause users to trip. Rubber backings or rug pads secure the rug in position but can interfere with the ventilation of the rug making it stay damp for longer periods of time.
Stain free
Bath mats should not stain the floor below.
Durability and ease
Durability and ease of maintenance are welcome features. Care instructions should be practical and convenient. Cotton is washable and dries easily but is not very durable. Olefin fibres are durable and popular for rugs. Chenille rugs display a high endurance to constant water exposure. Reversible designs such as looped on one face and cut-pile on the other can extend the life of the rug.
Style
It can be challenging to create interest in the bathroom decor, due to the small size and fixed nature of elements. The bath rug can revamp the look with ease. The rug design should complement the decor of the room – modern, traditional or eclectic. Bath rugs offer surfaces with interesting textures and can be contrasted with the other surfaces of the bathroom. In terms of colours and themes, the choice can range from muted designs which allow the eye to move to other accents or lively ones which make a design statement. The bath rug style should be compatible with the bathroom design scheme and lighting.
Usage patterns
Most importantly, the best rug for a particular situation depends on how and where it is used. For instance, non-regular rug shapes are appreciated if there is sufficient unoccupied floor area in the bathroom. Similarly, some users may value easy replacement over durability. The bath rug that is best for you requires balancing comfort, utility and aesthetics with your personal requirements.