The benefits of having a bath mat in the bathroom
Protection: Bath mats protect the bathroom floor from water damage by absorbing water that drips and splashes from the tub or shower. Constantly exposing the flooring to water can cause warping, buckling, and rotting.
Prevention: Moisture trapped under the flooring or under the tub can cause extensive water damage that’s costly to repair. Also, mold and mildew can flourish when excess water is allowed to remain on the floor.
Safety: Bath mats promote a safe bathing experience by reducing the risk of slipping on the floor when you get out of the shower. Tile, laminate, and linoleum surfaces can become as slick as ice with a little water.
Aesthetic: A bath mat coordinated with the existing color scheme and decor can significantly enhance the beauty and visual warmth of the bathroom.
Where is the best place to put the bath mat?
Position the mat snuggly next to your shower or tub. A mat extending the entire length of the tub ensures water absorption from any loose water.
Placing a small mat in front of a bathroom sink will provide a comfortable experience while protecting the floor from splashes while washing hands, brushing teeth, or shaving.
Taking the extra time to properly place the mat can prevent costly water damage repair down the road.
Are bath mats sanitary?
Regular washing preserves the sanitary condition of bath mats. Improving the ventilation in the bathroom reduces moisture too, which helps bath mats dry out. Washing them in hot water will kill bacteria, but it may also damage their rubberized backing over time.
How often should you purchase a new bath mat?
Bath mats need replacing at least every other year, and even frequently if they’re used frequently. The following signs indicate that a bath mat needs to be discarded and replaced:
Peeling: If the backing on the bath mat is peeling, tearing, or disintegrating, you should replace it. Compromised backing is less slip-proof, and degraded backing does not lay as flat and tends to roll up on the edges.
Loose threads: Besides being an eyesore, fraying threads create another trip hazard. These loose threads also have the potential to seriously damage a washing machine.
Stains: Stains do not necessarily indicate reduced functionality in a bath mat unless the blemishes are moldy. You’ll need to wash your mat more often if mold develops. Discard the mat if the stains do not release in the wash.
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