The 11 Best Bath Mats of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Tester-approved picks to keep your floors dry and feet cushioned

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Gorilla Grip Original Chenille Bath Mat

The Spruce / Theresa Holland

Reliable bath mats are more than just a cozy underfoot accessory for your bathroom floor. These mats absorb excess water, prevent slipping, and add style to your bathroom. But how do you choose a bath mat that does its job and looks fantastic? "Make sure your selections are washable, and always buy the best quality your budget will allow," says textile expert Saana Baker of The Textile Eye. "After that comes the fun part: aesthetics!"

To help you narrow down the countless different options available for bath mats, we researched and tested a variety of different options. In our testing and research, we considered mats made of various materials, in various shapes, sizes, and thicknesses.

Testing Stats
 Products Tested  13
 Hours Spent Testing  20
 Tested Performed  5
 Unique Testers  1
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Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Frontgate Resort Skid-Resistant Bath Rug

Frontgate Resort Skid-Resistant Bath Rug

Frontgate

Our Ratings
  • Design
    5/5
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Easy to Clean
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
What We Like
  • Luxurious long-staple cotton

  • Non-slip backing

  • Lots of colors and sizes

What We Don't Like
  • Pricey

After testing 13 of the highest-rated bath mats firsthand, Frontgate's Bath Rug was a clear winner. While most bath mats are either visually pleasing but low-quality or basic-looking but high-end, this product is the best of all worlds. Earning perfect scores in all of our testing categories, it stands out for us due to its appearance, absorbency, feel, and care requirements. 

As Baker notes, cotton is ideal for bath linens, as it's naturally absorbent and low-maintenance, especially looped weaves. But this bath mat is a step above standard cotton. Loomed from exceedingly strong long-staple cotton yarns, with a 2-inch-thick high-pile surface, it's incredibly soft with a luxurious texture that feels amazing between the toes.

We also appreciate that this bath mat has a grippy latex-treated backing, giving it reliable slip-resistance without compromising the plush, blankety feel. Not only that, but you can toss it in your washing machine, dry it in your dryer, and expect the long-staple cotton to get even softer with every wash. At around $100, depending on the size, this product is a bit more expensive than others in its category, but considering the high-quality, long-lasting design, we wouldn't say it's overpriced.

Size: 4 sizes available | Thickness: 1.8 inches | Shape: Rectangular | Material: Long-staple cotton | Color: 24 colors available

Closeup of a hand feeling Frontgate Resort Skid-Resistant Bath Rug

The Spruce / Theresa Holland

Best Budget

Yimobra Original Luxury Chenille Bath Mat

Yimobra Original Luxury Chenille Bath Mat

Yimobra

Our Ratings
  • Design
    5/5
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Easy to Clean
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
What We Like
  • Highly absorbent

  • Machine-washable

  • Many colors/sizes

What We Don't Like
  • Not quick-drying

  • Prone to fading

You don't have to spend a bunch of money to protect your floors from water damage and enhance your bathroom decor. Case in point: the Yimobra Original Luxury Bath Mat. This product earned perfect scores in all our testing categories, and the budget-friendly price tag makes it an excellent value. This chenille bath mat is incredibly plush with a super-comfy, shag-like weave that feels nice underfoot, and it has a grippy rubberized backing to prevent slips.

One thing to note is that while the material is highly absorbent, it doesn't dry as quickly as other bathmats. Some of the colors might be prone to fading. Still, it's conveniently machine-washable and even vacuumable on a lower suction mode. All things considered, we think the $20 to $30 price range is more than reasonable.

Size: 8 sizes available | Thickness: 1.5 inches | Shape: Rectangular | Material: Chenille | Color: 24 colors available

Yimobra Original Luxury Chenille Bath Mat displayed on tile floor in front of bath

The Spruce / Theresa Holland

Best Microfiber

Lifewit Microfiber Bathroom Rug Bath Mat

Lifewit Microfiber Bathroom Rug Bath Mat

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Design
    4/5
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Easy to Clean
    4/5
  • Value
    5/5
What We Like
  • Budget-friendly

  • Incredibly soft

  • Very absorbent

What We Don't Like
  • Sheds a lot

  • Not dryer-friendly

We're big fans of the Lifewit Microfiber Bathroom Rug, which clocked a perfect score in our comfort test. Woven from microfiber (a synthetic textile known for its exceptional absorbency), the ultra-thick, high-pile weave is not only absorbent but also notably soft and feels amazing underfoot—similar to sherpa.

This bath mat has a TPR (thermoplastic rubber) backing to help it grip your floors and prevent you from slipping when you step out of the shower. While it's machine-washable, the manufacturer recommends letting it air-dry to prevent warping the rubberized back. The other thing to note is that it shed a lot during our tests, so be prepared for frequent vacuuming (at least at first). Despite these minor drawbacks, it's hard to beat the wallet-friendly price point.

Size: 16 x 24 inches, 20 x 32 inches, 20 x 59 inches | Thickness: 1 inch | Shape: Rectangular | Material: Microfiber | Color: Black, white, gray, blue, khaki

Lifewit Microfiber Bathroom Rug Bath Mat displayed on the tile floor

The Spruce / Theresa Holland

Best Chenille

Gorilla Grip Original Chenille Bath Mat

Gorilla Grip Original Chenille Bath Mat

 Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Design
    4/5
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Easy to Clean
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
What We Like
  • Impressive absorbency

  • Heavy-duty rubber backing

  • Extensive size/color selection

What We Don't Like
  • Bald line down the middle

Chenille is actually the French word for "caterpillar," which is what the yarns used to make this fuzzy textile are supposed to resemble. If you're drawn to the material, go with the Gorilla Grip Bathroom Rug. It's made of polyester and features a shag-like surface that soaks up an impressive amount of water, dries remarkably fast, and feels pleasantly cushy underfoot. Though we like the overall design, our only complaint is that there's a bald seam running down the center—it's not terribly noticeable, though.

This bath mat has Gorilla Grip's signature heavy-duty rubber backing, which prevents slips when you step on it while safeguarding your floors from water damage. We also appreciate that it's machine-washable, dryer-friendly, and comes in an array of sizes and colors. The price is about average, but the smaller sizes are even more budget-friendly.

Size: 10 sizes available | Thickness: 1 inch | Shape: Rectangular | Material: Chenille | Color: 44 colors available

Gorilla Grip Original Chenille Bath Mat displayed on the tile floor

The Spruce / Theresa Holland

Best Memory Foam

Genteele Memory Foam Bath Mat

Genteele Memory Foam Bath Mat

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Design
    4/5
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Easy to Clean
    4/5
  • Value
    5/5
What We Like
  • Affordable

  • Easy to vacuum

  • Plush, supportive feel

What We Don't Like
  • Larger sizes are awkward to wash

For maximum plushness, we recommend the Genteele Memory Foam Bath Mat. When you step out of the tub or shower, your feet will sink into the thick, responsive inner foam layer and be pampered by the velvety-soft microfiber outer material. Thanks to the anti-slip backing with grippy rubber dots, it'll stay in place on your hard floors while protecting them from moisture damage.

This bath mat is machine-washable and air-dries pretty quickly, but since it's not as malleable as others we tested, the larger sizes can be a little awkward to wash in a standard washing machine. The smaller options are good for small bathrooms or kids' bathtubs. You can vacuum it as well, which makes it pretty easy to clean. At $30 to $50, depending on the size, this product is a great deal.

Size: 7 sizes available | Thickness: 1.7 inches | Shape: Rectangular | Material: Microfiber, memory foam | Color: 22 colors available

Genteele Memory Foam Bath Mat displayed on tile floor in front of cabinet

The Spruce / Theresa Holland

Best Looped

L.L.Bean Classic Cotton Bath Mat

L.L.Bean Classic Cotton Bath Mat

L.L.Bean

Our Ratings
  • Design
    5/5
  • Comfort
    4/5
  • Easy to Clean
    5/5
  • Value
    4/5
What We Like
  • Extra-thick, tight loops

  • Luxurious feel

  • Non-skid backing

What We Don't Like
  • Pricey

  • Average appearance

We also like L.L.Bean's Classic Cotton Bath Mat, which is no surprise, as the brand is a tried-and-true resource for practical home goods. According to Baker, looped cotton mats like this one provide superior durability and absorbency. Woven from long-wear cotton and loomed with extra-thick, ultra-tight loops, you can bet it'll absorb lots of water while offering luxurious comfort.

The shag-like surface indeed felt great underfoot during our tests, and the non-skid backing is a nice bonus. However, this product kind of just looks like your average bathroom rug. In other words, the appearance isn't as high-end as other options in this roundup. At nearly $80, the price is a little steep, but if you're looking for a reliable, long-lasting design that gets the job done, you really can't go wrong.

Size: 21 x 34 inches, 30 x 50 inches | Thickness: 1 inch | Shape: Rectangular | Material: Cotton | Color: Blue, charcoal, cream, taupe, brown, white

L.L.Bean Classic Cotton Bath Mat displayed on tile floor in front of bath

The Spruce / Theresa Holland

Best Bamboo

ZPirates Bamboo Bath Mat for Bathroom

ZPirates Natural Bamboo Shower Mat

Amazon

What We Like
  • Eco-friendly material

  • Rolls for storage

  • Rubber backing

What We Don't Like
  • Largest isn't very big

Bamboo is not only naturally beautiful but also a renewable resource since the stalks regrow quickly after being harvested. What's more, the absorbent material is resistant to mold and other types of moisture damage, making it a go-to choice for bath mats. We like this one by ZPirates, which is made up of small rectangular pieces connected without any nails or screws to prevent rust.

Though there are small spaces between the pieces, the idea is that the bamboo helps the water evaporate before it reaches the floor. This bath mat also has rubber grips on the back to prevent slipping, and the flexible design rolls up compactly for easy storage. All things considered, the $20 to $35 price range is more than reasonable. Our only complaint is that, while there are three sizes available, the largest isn't very big.

Size: 16 x 24 inches, 16 x 27 inches, 18 x 34 inches inches | Thickness: 0.5 inches | Shape: Rectangular| Material: Bamboo | Color: Natural

Best Design

West Elm Organic Colorblock Bath Mat

West Elm Colorblock Bath Mat

West Elm

What We Like
  • Unique geometric print

  • Soft feel underfoot

  • Machine-washable

What We Don't Like
  • Limited color options

  • Sheds after washing

Looking for something that makes a statement? Check out the Colorblock Bath Mat from West Elm. As the name suggests, it features a modern geometric colorblock design that entertains the eye without being too over-the-top. While there are only two colors available, both are not only attractive but also versatile enough to complement most bathroom design schemes.

This bath mat is made of 100 percent organic cotton and boasts a 750-gram weight, so you can count on durability and a super-soft feel. It features a plush, tufted weave with a slightly higher pile height for some of the blocks in the design. This product is machine-washable and dryer-friendly, but you'll notice some lint at least the first few times you launder it. It comes in two sizes, and considering the overall quality, we think the $40 to $60 price range is right on point.

Size: 20 x 34 inches, 24 x 36 inches | Thickness: Not listed | Shape: Rectangular | Material: Organic cotton | Color: Multi

Best Round

Latitude Run Jarris Soft Circle 100% Cotton Reversible Bath Rug

Latitude Run Jarris Soft Circle 100% Cotton Reversible Bath Rug

Wayfair

What We Like
  • Chic appearance

  • Soft and plush

  • Several colors available

What We Don't Like
  • Only one size

  • No non-slip backing

Our favorite circular option comes from Latitude Run. Made of 100 percent cotton with a scalloped design around the perimeter, the Jarris Bath Rug has a chic appearance and a tasteful appeal that will enhance any bathroom decor theme. There are 11 colors available, ranging from versatile ivory to sage green to punchy marigold.

It only comes in one size (36 inches in diameter), but the dimensions are perfect for a freestanding tub, a kids' bath, or a powder room. You could also place two side by side in front of a double-sink vanity. This soft, plush rug is conveniently machine-washable, and you can tumble dry it on low heat. The only other thing to note is that it doesn't have a non-slip backing, so you might want to buy a small rubbery pad to go underneath.

Size: 36 inches | Thickness: 1.25 inches | Shape: Circular | Material: Cotton | Color: 11 colors available

Best Runner

Azulina Home Super Soft Bath Mat

Azulina Home Super Soft Bath Mat

Azulina

Our Ratings
  • Design
    5/5
  • Comfort
    4/5
  • Easy to Clean
    4/5
  • Value
    4/5
What We Like
  • Handwoven

  • Sturdy weave

  • Aesthetically pleasing

What We Don't Like
  • Pricey

  • Must be air-dried

Need something longer? Take a look at the Cali Bath Mat from Azulina Home. At 60 x 20 inches (including the tassel fringe), the runner size is ideal for large bathrooms, double vanities, and walk-in showers. This 100 percent cotton piece was handwoven in Bogotá. One of the best options we tested, it has a stunning authentic appeal, with a notably sturdy weave and a slight stretch.

The backing isn't rubberized, but it comes with an anti-slip mat you can place underneath. We appreciate that this bath mat is machine-washable, but you'll want to air-dry it to prevent damage. While the runner size is priced pretty steep, the quality is unmistakable, and it'll definitely add something special to your bathroom decor.

Size: 20 x 60 inches | Thickness: Not listed | Shape: Rectangular | Material: Cotton | Color: Blue, gray, sand, ivory, olive, black

Azulina Home Super Soft Bath Mat displayed on tile floor in front of cabinet

The Spruce / Theresa Holland

Compare

Design Comfort Easy to Clean Value
Frontgate Resort Skid-Resistant Bath Rug
Best Overall:
Frontgate Resort Bath Rug
5 5 5 5
Yimobra Original Luxury Chenille Bath Mat
Best Budget:
Yimobra Luxury Chenille Bath Mat
5 5 5 5
Lifewit Microfiber Bathroom Rug Bath Mat
Best Microfiber:
Lifewit Microfiber Bathroom Rug Bath Mat
4 5 4 5
Gorilla Grip Original Chenille Bath Mat
Best Chenille:
Gorilla Grip Original Chenille Bath Mat
4 5 5 5
Genteele Memory Foam Bath Mat
Best Memory Foam:
Genteele Memory Foam Bath Mat
4 5 4 5
L.L.Bean Classic Cotton Bath Mat
Best Looped:
L.L.Bean Classic Cotton Bath Mat
5 4 5 4
ZPirates Natural Bamboo Shower Mat
Best Bamboo:
ZPirates Bamboo Bath Mat
West Elm Colorblock Bath Mat
Best Design:
West Elm Organic Colorblock Bath Mat
Latitude Run Jarris Soft Circle 100% Cotton Reversible Bath Rug
Best Round:
Latitude Run Jarris Soft Circle Bath Rug
Azulina Home Super Soft Bath Mat
Best Runner:
Azulina Home Super Soft Bath Mat
5 4 4 4
Final Verdict

Earning perfect scores in all categories, the Frontgate Resort Collection Skid-Resistant Bath Rug was by far the best option we tested. We're big fans of the luxurious long-staple cotton and superior absorbency. If you're looking for something more affordable, the Yimobra Original Luxury Chenille Bath Mat is a solid choice that won't break the bank.

How We Tested Bath Mats

We spent 20 hours researching the most highly rated bath mats available in various styles and interviewed experts in the field. Based on this research, we selected 13 options to try firsthand in The Lab. Each mat was evaluated for how it looked, felt, and held up after multiple showers and laundry cycles. We then rated them on a scale of 1 to 5, based on design, comfort, ease of washing, and overall value. Those with the highest scores were selected for this roundup.

What to Consider When Buying a Bath Mat

Size and Thickness

When shopping for a bath mat, one of the most important things to consider is size. Make sure you get something small enough to fit comfortably in your bathroom but also large enough to be functional and not just decorative. "Think about your space and how you'll use it," says Baker. "Would a long runner be nice in the space, or perhaps two smaller mats?"

It's a good idea to measure your bathroom, as well as your bathtub and/or shower before ordering a rug. The mat doesn't have to span the entire length of your shower or bath, but it should cover the area where you step out. Need specific dimensions? The Gorilla Grip Bath Rug comes in 10 sizes, so you'll definitely find something that fits your space.

You'll also want to consider the thickness. While thick rugs like the Frontgate Resort Collection Skid-Resistant Bath Rug are nice and plush underfoot, Baker says to make sure there's enough clearance under your bathroom or shower door to prevent it from getting caught.

Material and Backing

Bath mats come in various materials, the most common being cotton and synthetic blends such as polyester, chenille, or microfiber. All are notably absorbent, but synthetic fabrics often dry more quickly and resist shrinking. Microfiber is known for its exceptional absorbency, holding several times its weight in water, and it has a luxurious velvety feel.

If you're a fan of microfiber, consider the Lifewit Bathroom Rug Bath Mat, but if you prefer natural textiles, The Company Store Chunky Loop Cotton Bath Rug is an excellent choice.

Another important feature is an anti-skid, rubberized backing. This will help your bath mat stay in place and safeguard your floors from moisture damage while adding traction underfoot to prevent you from slipping when you step out of the tub or shower.

Care and Maintenance

Most textile bath mats (as compared to bamboo or wood) are machine-washable, though some have to be hand-washed or spot-cleaned. If you want a low-maintenance rug, make sure to confirm it can be washed and dried, like the West Elm Colorblock Bath Mat. Many machine-washable rugs can't be put in the dryer, since the heat may warp the non-slip backing. Some lower-pile options are vacuumable, which makes cleaning much easier.

Machine washable bath mats

The Spruce / Theresa Holland

FAQ
  • What is the best material for a bath mat?

    The best material for a bath mat is either cotton (extra points if it's long-staple cotton, which tends to be the most durable) or some type of highly absorbent synthetic fabric, such as microfiber or chenille. In addition to excellent absorbency, these materials are quick-drying, soft, and generally low-maintenance.

  • What type of bath mat is most absorbent?

    Absorbency depends on the material and weave. The most absorbent bath mats are typically made of cotton, chenille, or microfiber, the latter of which can hold several times its weight in water. Like towels, you want the weave to be soft and plush but not so thick that it takes too long to dry.

  • How often should you change your bath mat?

    You should switch your bath mat out for a new one about once every two years, as fabrics lose their absorbency over time. This will also prevent it from smelling musty and becoming threadbare. Washing it every two to four weeks should suffice.

Why Trust The Spruce?

Theresa Holland is a seasoned commerce writer and product tester specializing in home goods. For this story, she interviewed textile expert Saana Baker of The Textile Eye, who offered insight into various materials and tips for what to look for when buying a bath mat. Theresa tried many mats on this list firsthand and researched others that fit the bill. The selected products stand out for absorbency, drying speed, durability, look, feel, and overall quality. Theresa has been contributing to The Spruce since 2019, covering bath linens, bedding, home decor, and cleaning products.

The Spruce uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
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  3. Zhao H, et al. Bamboo and rattan: Nature-based solutions for sustainable development. Innovation (Camb). 2022 Oct 14;3(6):100337. doi:10.1016/j.xinn.2022.100337

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