We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Shopping Home Products Bedding & Bath Product Reviews The 9 Best Bath Mats of 2024, Tested and Reviewed For zero slippage when you step out of the shower. By Stefanie Waldek Stefanie Waldek Stefanie Waldek is a writer with 10+ years of experience in the home and travel industry. She has written for Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, and The Washington Post, among other publications. Real Simple's Editorial Guidelines and Nor'adila Hepburn Nor'adila Hepburn Nor’Adila is a contributing writer for Real Simple. Her work has appeared in Better Homes & Gardens, Southern Living, US World News & Report, and Trip Advisor. Real Simple's Editorial Guidelines Updated on July 18, 2024 Fact checked by Emily Estep Fact checked by Emily Estep Emily Estep is a plant biologist and journalist who has worked for a variety of online news and media outlets, writing about and editing topics that range from film and beauty to science and the automobile industry. Her plant biology degree has a focus on sustainable agriculture, and she’s an expert on growing your own food, environmental sciences, and all topics relating to houseplants. Our Fact-Checking Process In This Article View All In This Article Our Top Picks Reviews Final Verdict Our Testing Process How to Shop More to Consider FAQs Take Our Word for It What Is Real Simple Selects? Photo: Real Simple / Henry Wortock Bath mats may seem like an insignificant part of your bathroom, but they're actually very practical. Not only do they provide an absorbent, comfortable surface to prevent you from slipping when you get out of the shower, but they can also pull the room together and make it feel more spa-like. To find the best bath mats, we tested 29 models in our Des Moines lab and at home over the course of two months, evaluating them on performance, comfort, value, and ease of cleaning. We included multiple types of bath mats—including memory foam and wood options—and various price points. For tips on maximizing the life of your bath mat, we also spoke with Leah Tuttleman, interior designer at Re-Bath, Jessica Samson, a cleaning expert at The Maids, and Audrey Scheck, the founder and CEO of Audrey Scheck Design. Our Top Picks Best Overall: SALE Genteele Memory Foam Bath Mat at Amazon $23 $12 Jump to Review Best Budget: Sonoro Kate Non-Slip Bath Mat at Amazon $15 Jump to Review Best Splurge: Dorai Zen Bath Stone at Amazon $90 Jump to Review Most Absorbent: SALE Gorilla Grip Original Chenille Bath Mat at Amazon $43 $33 Jump to Review Best Cotton: L.L.Bean Premium Cotton Bath Mat at L.L.Bean $50 Jump to Review Best Non-Slip: Lifewit Microfiber Bathroom Rug at Amazon $25 Jump to Review Best Rug: Southern Living Seville Bath Rug at Dillards.com Jump to Review Best Stone: Sutera Stone Bath Mat at Amazon $46 Jump to Review Best Bamboo: ToiletTree Products Bamboo Deluxe Bath Mat at Amazon $50 Jump to Review Best Overall Genteele Memory Foam Bath Mat PHOTO: Amazon $12 at Amazon $12 at Walmart What Stands Out This bath mat has a super soft, high pile. What Could Be Improved It can become waterlogged. Memory foam isn't just for mattresses and pillows—there are memory foam bath mats, too. This mat from Genteele feels soft beneath your feet, which explains why many people enjoy using it in the bathroom and kitchen. During testing, the mat was very thick and durable and shifted very little regardless of whether it was wet or dry. The biggest downside to this mat is that while it’s super absorbent, it can get waterlogged and feel like stepping into a puddle (keep in mind that our testing involved pouring water directly onto the rug). Thankfully, even when the top of the mat absorbed moisture, the bottom was only damp, with no water spilling on the floor. We also like that you can wash this bath mat regularly in a washer and dryer, which you may want to do regularly to avoid mold and mildew growth. We found that it remained intact and didn’t fray at all. Washing also didn't damage the quality of the memory foam. While the mat looked a little flat when it came out, it regained its form after a few minutes. Even after two months, the quality feels the same as when we first got it. It absorbs water well after a shower, even without a shower curtain and when showering right after another person. Overall, this mat is spacious enough to suit practically any bathroom. There are 27 colors and patterns available, including solids, stripes, and even an adorable duck pattern ideal for a child's bathroom. It also comes in eight sizes to fit any space. (Just note that some colors come in fewer sizes than others.) Material: Polyurethane foam, velvet cover | Size: 17 by 24 to 72 by 24 inches | Care: Machine wash Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Best Budget Sonoro Kate Non-Slip Bath Mat PHOTO: Amazon $15 at Amazon What Stands Out Although the mat is super absorbent, it dries quickly. What Could Be Improved This bath mat may not be as durable as other options. For those who want an affordable bath mat that offers plenty of plush cushioning while hopping out of the bath or washing your face, opt for the Sonoro Kate Bathroom Rug. This budget-friendly bath mat is soft and absorbent thanks to the shag-like texture of its deep polyester pile. During testing, after just 15 minutes of air-drying, it became damp rather than soaking wet, making us confident that the rug wouldn't become waterlogged. No water escaped under the mat, so our floors remained completely dry. While we didn’t find the rug to be the most sleek or attractive option, it was very comfortable underfoot and stayed in place when wet and dry thanks to the non-slip PVC backing. After two months of testing in our own bathroom, we noticed that it collected more hair than we would’ve liked, and it became a bit matted and less plush with use. Its thickness also prevented doors from easily opening over it, and it didn’t work well with robot vacuums. The corners started to fray after washing, as well, so it may not be as durable as other mats on this list. Luckily, it's inexpensive, so replacing it every so often won't break the bank. It comes in four sizes and 11 colors ranging from neutral beige to royal purple. Material: Polyester | Size: 17 by 24 to 44 by 26 inches | Care: Machine wash Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Best Splurge Dorai Zen Bath Stone PHOTO: DORAI $90 at Amazon View on Doraihome.com What Stands Out This quick-drying bath mat keeps your floor dry. What Could Be Improved This bath mat doesn’t feel as comfortable as a plush option. Made from diatomaceous earth and recycled paper, this natural stone bath mat has a hard texture that might not suit those who prefer a cushioned feel when they step out of the tub. But where plush rugs can retain moisture or feel waterlogged, this stone mat excels—during our tests, the water evaporated instantly. Our footsteps dried almost as soon as we stepped on it. We also found no water leaking from the bottom of the mat, making it a hygienic option that won’t harbor mold or mildew. While we liked this mat overall, it had a strange odor that we couldn't discern the origin of. We didn’t feel the mat was as comfortable as other bath mats we tested, but we liked it because it wasn’t slippery and had rubber pads at the bottom to keep it in place. After using it consistently for two months, we considered this bath mat to improve our shower routine, and the quality stayed the same throughout the course of testing. We loved how it instantly took the water off our feet and dried almost immediately after a shower. It's available in two colors: sandstone and slate. Material: Diatomaceous earth, recycled paper | Size: 23.6 by 15.4 by 0.4 inches | Care: Buff with the sanding tool and scrub with natural cleaner or hydrogen peroxide Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Most Absorbent Gorilla Grip Original Chenille Bath Mat PHOTO: Amazon $33 at Amazon View on Gorillagrip.com What Stands Out It is Oeko-Tex certified and has a soft texture. What Could Be Improved Without proper and regular cleaning, it may grow mildew or mold. While the Gorilla Grip Bath Rug may not be the cutest or most plush bath rug on our list, it's the most absorbent of all the rugs we tested. This mat instantly soaks up water, leaving no moisture to seep through to the floor underneath. A textured rubber backing causes it to stick firmly to the floor and keeps it from sliding around even when wet. This backing is also durable and machine-washable without breaking down or showing wear. However, we noticed that the mat was not as fluffy after washing. After two months, this bath mat maintained its quality and lived up to how it performed in the lab. We loved how it reduced the amount of water left behind after a shower. It consists of tentacle-like chenille fibers that offer soft cushioning and support for your feet when you step onto it. Keep in mind that you will need to clean this mat frequently, as it easily harbors mold and mildew growth due to the excess moisture. The mat is available in 27 colors, from beige and black to coral and turquoise. There are also 12 sizes available, so you can get the fit you need for your bathroom. The rug is Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified and contains no harmful chemicals or dyes. The brand also offers matching toilet seat covers and contour rugs for those who want a matching set to complete the look. Material: Chenille | Size: 22 by 19 14.5 inches to 70 by 24 inches | Care: Machine wash Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Best Cotton L.L.Bean Premium Cotton Bath Mat PHOTO: L.L.Bean $50 at L.L.Bean What Stands Out You can safely put this mat in the washer and dryer. What Could Be Improved This is not a plush bath mat option. The L.L. Bean Premium Cotton Bath Mat is made of ultra-absorbent, super plush cotton—for those who frequently step out of the shower soaking wet, this is the mat for you. And since the backing has a latex coating, this mat is also impressively non-slip. It has a simple flat weave around the edge that adds a decorative touch, and it comes in two sizes and four colors to suit various bathrooms. (There's even a matching bath towel set if you'd like to coordinate all the linens in your bathroom.) Best of all, this plush cotton bath mat is machine-washable and dryable—although air drying will extend its lifespan. This makes it very easy to maintain, especially since bath mats are prone to mildew and mold growth. While the hue in cotton can diminish over time, this bath mat has colorfast technology to preserve its shade, according to the brand. The only downside of this product is that it sheds lint at first, but this will reduce after a few wash cycles. Even though it wasn’t as plush as other options (it’s only ½ an inch thick), we found the bath mat quite absorbent as it soaked up the water we poured under it in testing. We also saw that the moisture did not seep into the backing, so the mat was stable and not slippery on the ground. Over the course of two months of testing at home, the fibers became even less plush, but the mat didn’t hold on to water for very long after a shower or create any unusual smells from taking too long to dry. The price is a bit steep considering that other mats on this list perform similarly for less, but if getting a premium cotton mat is a priority, this pick is your best bet. Material: Cotton | Size: 21 by 34 or 27 by 44 inches | Care: Machine wash Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Best Non-Slip Lifewit Microfiber Bathroom Rug PHOTO: Amazon $25 at Amazon $23 at Walmart What Stands Out It is a soft and cozy option for your bathroom floor and feet. What Could Be Improved The mat can only be air-dried. Soft and shaggy, the Lifewit Bathroom Rug Bath Mat is a spa-like mat for your feet to sink into after a shower or bath. This mat has a non-slip backing and high-pile absorbent microfibers to keep your floor dry. Other than its edges slightly curling, it held up well even after multiple washes. There was no fraying, and the rubber backing remained intact. It also had excellent water absorption: Not only did we not feel any moisture under the mat, but when we turned it on its side just a few drops came out. That said, the mat seemed drenched when we poured water directly onto it—it took a long time to dry completely. The mat cannot be machine-dried, as it will damage the rubber backing. We suggest air-drying it by hanging it outside or in your bathroom between washings. We found that it still performed well after two months of use at home, taking about 30 minutes to dry after stepping on it after a shower with wet feet. Even after machine washing, the quality of the mat stayed the same with each wash. This pick is not slippery and feels more secure when the mat is wet rather than dry. It also has an inexpensive price tag and comes in three sizes and five colors: black, blue, gray, khaki, and white. Material: Microfiber | Size: 24 by 16 to 59 by 20 inches | Care: Machine wash, air dry Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Best Rug Southern Living Seville Bath Rug PHOTO: Dillard's View on Dillards.com What Stands Out It is a soft and luxurious bath rug that can accent areas of your home. What Could Be Improved The latex backing does not fare well in the washing machine. This medium-pile rug has a gorgeous Turkish-inspired design that adds a decorative touch to your powder room. Plus, it's affordable, feels luxurious under your feet, and comes in three sizes. While we like this mat overall, it has a couple drawbacks—the main one is that it can get soggy because it doesn't absorb water well. But, we noticed that even though the mat got wet, the floor underneath it was always dry. The other con is that its latex backing tends to deteriorate in the wash, causing the mat to feel more slippery. Besides the backing, the rest of the mat was in good shape after washing. After two months, we didn’t notice any changes in quality or performance. It washed well without any damage to the rug pad—dirt and stains were easily removed—and water absorbed well after a shower. Material: Polyester | Size: 21 by 34 inches, 24 by 42 inches, 24 by 60 inches | Care: Machine wash Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Best Stone Sutera Stone Bath Mat PHOTO: Amazon $46 at Amazon View on Sleepsutera.com What Stands Out The mat is very absorbent and hygienic. What Could Be Improved It tends to slide on the floor. The Sutera Stone Bath Mat is unconventional due to its diatomaceous clay construction. The material is hard and not the most comfortable to stand on, but doesn’t hold excess moisture, so the chance of yucky bacteria and mold forming decreases. This mat includes an upper mat and a slip-resistant mat that goes beneath it. It absorbs water incredibly effectively, allowing it to evaporate from the surface instantly. Additionally, the mat has an engraved pattern designed to provide extra grip when getting out of the shower. Despite this slight texture, it tends to slide, so be careful when stepping on it. One of the best features of this mat is that it requires almost zero maintenance. There is no need to wash it or dry it to avoid mold or mildew, as it's naturally hygienic. However, if you want to go the extra mile, you can use the sanding tool that comes with it to keep the stones smooth and polished. We found that after two months, the absorbency held true. After a shower, the stone started drying right under our feet, even while water was still dripping. By the time we put our hair in a towel, the entire thing was completely dry. Even with a larger amount of water—due to splashing from bathing kids or babies, for example—the mat still dried in a short period of time (about a minute or two). It also didn’t develop any signs of wear or dirt, and we never noticed any footprints, scuffs, or stains. Material: Diatomaceous clay | Size: 23.5 by 15 inches | Care: Buff with sanding tool Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Best Bamboo ToiletTree Products Bamboo Deluxe Bath Mat PHOTO: Amazon $50 at Amazon View on Bed Bath & Beyond $50 at Home Depot What Stands Out The mat is stable and will not slide around the floor. What Could Be Improved It does not absorb water. This bath mat is made from 100% pure bamboo wood and features a glossy finish that prevents mold and mildew from forming. For those who want a stylish yet environmentally friendly accent for their bathroom, this pick is for you. The bath mat is relatively heavy (it weighs 8 pounds) and has 12 anti-slip felt points on the base that prevent it from sliding. We tested its stability by jumping up and down around the edges to see if we could move it or flip over. Fortunately, it didn’t move an inch. Because this mat is so sturdy and stylish, it can suit multiple spaces like inside your shower, next to your pool, or by the kitchen sink. However, its widely spaced wooden slates don't absorb water, so your floors may become wet if you step out of the shower soaking wet. You can clean it by wiping it down with dish soap and a soft sponge. Also, the mat is raised above the floor, so exercise caution to avoid tripping over it or stubbing your toe on the side. After using it for two months, we wished that it protected our floors better from water, and we also found that back-to-back showers resulted in stepping in puddles. However, we thought it was a great, more hygienic option for those who don’t love the upkeep of a general bath mat, as the bamboo felt cleaner than other materials. Material: Bamboo | Size: 25.5 by 15.75 by 1.25 inches | Care: Wipe down with a soft cloth and mild dish soap Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Real Simple / Henry Wortock Final Verdict Our top pick is the Genteele Bath Mat for its plush memory foam surface that feels soft underfoot, super absorbent material, and firm grip. Plus, it comes in various colors—offering plenty of options to decorate your bathroom. Our Testing Process To find the best bath mats, we tested 29 bath mats in our Lab. We divided the test into three parts: pre-wash, wash, and post-wash. To start, we placed the bath mat on the ground to assess its slip and see how well it stayed in place. We walked barefoot on it to evaluate its softness and cushioning and assessed whether standing on it affected the shape. We then poured water on it, noting how quickly it absorbed moisture. We also set a timer to see how long it would take for the bath mat to dry. After this round of tests, we washed the bath mats with gentle detergent. Next, we washed and dried the mats twice, checking the overall condition and inspecting for fraying, loose threads, or other imperfections. We also repeated the process of standing on the mat and checked the softness, cushioning, and if it retained its original shape. After two months, we reevaluated the bath mats to see how well they stood the test of time and if we still loved how they performed in our homes. Real Simple / Henry Wortock How to Shop for Bath Mats Like a Pro Material When shopping for a bath mat, consider the material that best suits your bathroom needs and bathing habits. Cotton is the most common material, as it's highly absorbent and dries quickly. There are also bath mats made of synthetic materials like polyester chenille or microfiber, which absorb water and often feel softer than cotton. For those who prefer organic materials and elevated design, you may want to consider a wood bath mat. Although wood isn't absorbent compared to fabrics, it provides a non-slip surface that resists mold and mildew growth. Stone bath mats are making waves for their impressive absorbency, mildew resistance, and streamlined look. While they don't provide a cushioned underfoot feel, their durability makes them a high-quality option that you won't need to clean as often. Many bath mats also have a PVC anti-slip backing that holds the mat in place. “They add traction so you don’t slip or fall on it,” says Tuttleman. “The backing also safeguards your floor from moisture and offers protection from moisture between the fabric and the floor.” Scheck says it’s important to choose a mat that is versatile. “We gravitate towards natural fiber bath mats, which are both beautiful and functional,” she says. “They are neutral enough to work with any design aesthetic, and they are also low maintenance.” Size Bath mats are often rectangular but can come in round designs too. They are also available in different sizes. “The standard bath mat size is 20 by 30 inches and will fit the average-sized bathroom,” says Scheck. “For larger bathrooms, it’s good to find mats that fit the scale of the room. Smaller more functional mats can be tucked away to use near showers or tubs.” Measure your bathroom floor before purchasing a bath mat to make sure that it will fit. For best results, a bath mat should lay flat against your tub or shower. If you want something that spans the entire length of your bathtub, consider purchasing a longer bath runner. Care “We recommend purchasing a machine-washable bath mat that can easily be washed and dried,” says Scheck. Bath mats need to be washed frequently, as they are prone to growing mold and mildew. Figure out whether your bath mat is machine-washable or if it needs to be washed by hand. Machine washing can shorten the lifespan of a bath mat, but it's much more convenient than hand washing, which is a much gentler process. Some bath and shower mats made of teak wood or diatomaceous clay options cannot go in the washing machine. To keep a teak bath mat in prime condition, check the manufacturer’s instructions, and be prepared to find a compatible cleaning solution. For diatomaceous clay mats, you can periodically sand their surface to keep them looking fresh. Most of the mats will come with their own sanding tool, so you don’t have to buy one separately. Real Simple / Henry Wortock More Bath Mats to Consider Brooklinen Bath Mat: Made of 100% Turkish cotton, this mat is easy to clean and durable against machine washing. We liked how absorbent it was and that it had no water dripping off it when we turned it sideways during tests. Our only gripe was that it felt more like a thick bath towel on our floor than a plush mat. The mat comes in small and medium sizes and five colors. Frontgate Resort Collection Skid-Resistant Bath Rug: This luxurious bath mat from Frontgate is designed to make your bathroom feel like a hotel bathroom or spa. We found the mat very comfy for our feet, providing a plush and soft feel underfoot. It also absorbed water superbly and had no water leaking to its back. Unfortunately, it takes a long time to dry, even when machine-dried. We put it through multiple cycles in the dryer, and it still didn’t fully dry. Because of this, it might be easier to vacuum it if it needs cleaning. Questions You Might Ask How do you wash a bath mat? There are two methods of cleaning fabric bath mats: by hand and in a washing machine. You should always check your product's care label to determine which method you should use. Either way, Samson suggests starting out with a good shake. "Beat the bath mat outside and loosen all of the dirt and hair that has accumulated on the bath mat," she says. "Then assess any stains on the bath mat and use a stain remover to remove the stains." If you're washing by hand, fill a large container (one big enough to hold your bath mat) with cold water, add detergent, and submerge your bath mat in the mixture. "Let soak for 30 minutes, then agitate the bath mat in the solution with your hands for one to two minutes," says Samson. "Then let the bath mat dry outside until dry." If you're using a washing machine, run it on a gentle cycle while cleaning your bath mat—it's a good idea to keep it separate from your bath towels. Even though some manufacturers claim their bath mats can be tumble-dried, Samson recommends otherwise. "Avoid putting the bath mat in the dryer machine as it will break away the rubber backing of the mat," she says. "Line drying is the preferred method of drying the mat once washed." How often should you wash a bath mat? Because bath mats are a soft material in a wet environment, they can quickly grow mold and mildew—and that's why you should wash your bath mat regularly. "The more you clean your bath mat, the fresher your bathroom will smell and the cleaner your bathroom will be," says Samson. A good starting point is washing your bath mat every two weeks, but this recommendation can vary based on how often your bath mat is used and how wet it gets each time. "If you frequently step on the mat when wet, you will want to wash your bath mat every week," Samson adds. "If your bath mat stays relatively dry, you can get away with cleaning it once a month." Where should you put a bath mat? The best place to put a bath mat is on the bathroom floor next to your tub or shower, precisely where you step out once you're finished bathing. But you can also consider placing bath mats elsewhere in your bathroom, like in front of your vanity to make it more comfortable for your feet when you're brushing your teeth or applying skincare products. Real Simple / Henry Wortock What is the most sanitary type of bath mat? Experts agree: the most sanitary type of mat is a dry one. “To ensure the most sanitary conditions, allow your mat to fully dry after each use,” says Scheck. She also recommends using “a rug pad under your bathroom rug or mat to extend its longevity.” If you’re looking for a mat that can stay dry and bacteria-free, Tuttleman suggests avoiding soft materials and opting for a mat with a hard surface instead. “Teak wood bath mats offer a combination of non-slip luxury and style,” says Tuttleman. “It is also naturally fast-drying and can withstand moisture and water damage. It is an ideal choice for a wet and humid bathroom. Plus, it is naturally resistant to both mold and insects.” In addition to teak, there are also mats made from diatomaceous clay that absorb moisture and wetness in a matter of seconds, so you never have to worry about mold, bacteria, or bad smells under your mat. What’s the difference between a bath mat and a bath rug? While bath mats and bath rugs are functionally the same, rugs are typically more plush to provide a more luxurious feel, according to Scheck. Take Our Word for It This article was written by Stefanie Waldek and updated by Nor’adila Hepburn, both contributing writers for Real Simple. To find the best bath mats, we tested 29 options in our Lab while considering performance, comfort, value, and ease of cleaning. We also tapped cleaning experts Jessica Samson of The Maids, Audrey Scheck, the founder, CEO, and principal designer of Audrey Scheck Design, and Leah Tuttleman, interior designer at Re-Bath, for tips on how to care for your bath mat. What Is Real Simple Selects? Next to each product on this list, you may have noticed a Real Simple Selects seal of approval. Any product appearing alongside that seal has been vetted by our team—put through tests and graded on its performance to earn a spot on our list. Although we buy most of the products we test, sometimes we do get samples from companies if purchasing a product ourselves isn’t an option. All products go through the same rigorous process, whether they are purchased or sent by the company. Love our recommendations? Check out more products that have earned the Real Simple Selects, from humidifiers to cordless vacuums.