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The best bath mats that are both stylish and non-slip, from just £10
It’s time for a bathroom upgrade
Bath mats aren’t just for show (although that matters too) – they can stop you slipping over when wet and protect your floors if your shower screen leaks at the edges.
Yes, you can always just throw an old towel on the floor to soak up water, but the best bath mats will absorb excess water, act as a warm, comfy cushion between you and the cold, hard floor, and they’re a great way of adding instant colour and style to your space.
These are our favourite stylish and practical buys at a glance:
Best bath mats to buy
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The White Company Rib Hydrocotton Bath Mat
Read review
How we chose the best bath mats
To help you find the perfect bathroom mat, our homes team carried out in-depth research to ensure our recommendations cover all needs and budgets. We also drew on insights from our sister lab in the US, using the GHI textiles team's expert feedback to shape our final picks.
Here’s what we considered:
- Is the material absorbent?
- Is the fabric quick to dry?
- Does the mat have a non-slip backing?
- Does the top surface have good grip?
- Is the bath mat material soft to stand on?
- How big is the bath mat?
- And will it stop a puddle forming on the bathroom floor?
- How easy is it to clean?
This gave us plenty to consider and helped shape our list of the best buys. You’ll find our top picks below, along with advice on choosing the right mat for your bathroom and how to keep it in top condition.
smiry Non Slip Chenille Bath Mat
Pros
- Luxurious feel
- Anti-skid backing
- Washing machine and tumble dryer friendly
Cons
- Care instructions state it should be washed separately from other items
This bath mat ticks lots of boxes, from its soft, chenille surface, to the PVC non-slip backing underneath, which will minimise any skidding when you’re stepping out of the bath.
Chenille is also absorbent and quick drying but note that the softness may lessen over time and the weaves might flatten. That aside, it’s easy to clean and comes in a variety of sizes and colours to suit everyone.
Key specifications
| Size | 50 x 80cm |
|---|---|
| Material | Chenille polyester weave |
| Non-slip backing | Yes - PVC backing |
| Care instructions | Machine wash with cold water and mild detergent. Tumble dry at low speed or hang dry |
John Lewis Egyptian Cotton Bath Mat
John Lewis Egyptian Cotton Bath Mat
Pros
- Machine washable and tumble dryer friendly
- Cotton is absorbent and quick drying
- Lots of colour options
Cons
- Thin
- Not as plush as others
If you’re looking for a bath mat that will match a specific aesthetic, head to John Lewis. There are 40 colours available in this style, ranging from oranges to bright blues, making it an easy way to add a pop of colour to your bathroom.
Each bathroom mat is made with traceable Egyptian cotton and is finished with a natural peppermint treatment to keep it fresher for longer. It is on the thin side (more like the thickness of a towel) and doesn’t have a non-slip backing so it might not be suitable for some, but for a colourful, easy-to-clean bathroom rug, this is a great choice.
Key specifications
| Size | 52 x 80cm |
|---|---|
| Material | 100% cotton |
| Non-slip backing | No |
| Care instructions | Machine washable up to 60 degrees. Tumble dry at low temperature |
Panda Bamboo Bath Rug
Panda Bamboo Bath Rug
Pros
- Made from cotton and bamboo, which are both absorbent and quick drying
- Machine washable
- Soft and plush feel
Cons
- Pricey
- Limited options
As the winning brand in the Good Housekeeping Institute’s best bath towels roundup, we turned straight to Panda when looking for a luxury bath mat. This mat is made from 60% cotton and 40% bamboo, combining two super absorbent materials and designed to retain water of up to four times its weight. Bamboo is also naturally antibacterial and odour-resistant – not to mention being more eco-friendly too.
There’s only one size and you’re limited on colour options; however, the neutral tones available are sure to suit every bathroom aesthetic.
Key specifications
| Size | 50 x 80cm |
|---|---|
| Material | Bamboo and cotton |
| Non-slip backing | No |
| Care instructions | Wash at 30 degrees. Line drying is recommended |
Dusk Kos Scalloped Bath Mat
Pros
- Has a non-slip backing
- Also available in pink
- Washable and tumble dryer friendly
Cons
- Have to machine wash on cold
With a playful, scalloped edge, this bath mat brings character to your bathroom. It’s made from 100% tufted cotton for a soft feel underfoot and provides plenty of absorbency when you step out of the bath or shower. It also comes with a latex backing that will help keep it in place, reducing the risk of any slip-ups. A great option, at a reasonable price.
Key specifications
| Size | 50 x 80cm |
|---|---|
| Material | 100% cotton |
| Non-slip backing | Yes - latex backing |
| Care instructions | Machine wash cold. Tumble dry low |
The White Company Rib Hydrocotton Bath Mat
The White Company Rib Hydrocotton Bath Mat
Pros
- Matching towels
- Pure cotton with a high-pile border design
- Different sizes available
Cons
- Expensive
- No non-slip backing
This bath mat is part of the same Hydrocotton range that performed well in our best bath towels roundup. Made of 100% cotton just like those top-scoring towels, this mat features ‘zero-twist’ technology for a thicker, softer feel. It’s also highly absorbent and fast drying.
It’s available in two sizes: medium (50 x 80cm) and large (70 x 110cm), but neither has a non-slip backing. However, for a luxuriously soft bath mat, this is a quality buy.
Key specifications
| Size | 50 x 80cm or 70 x 110cm |
|---|---|
| Material | 100% cotton |
| Non-slip backing | No |
| Care instructions | Machine washable |
Pros
- Easy to wash
- Available in a range of colours
- Has a subtle pattern
Cons
- Not non-slip
- Not as cushioned as others
Available in brights and neutral tones, you’re sure to find the perfect shade for your bathroom in Christy’s range. The Supreme mat is made from 100% cotton and features the brand’s ‘spinning technology’, where air pockets are woven into the material for a fluffier feel and better absorbency.
There’s no non-slip backing and it has the thickness of a towel, but it has a 1,000 GSM weight, so it should still feel thick and luxurious.
Key specifications
| Size | 50 x 90cm |
|---|---|
| Material | 100% cotton |
| Non-slip backing | No |
| Care instructions | Machine washable up to 60 degrees. Line dry for longevity or tumble dry on medium heat |
Homerella Bathtub Mat
Pros
- Suction cups provide grip
- Can be placed in wet rooms, baths, and showers
- Mildew resistant
Cons
- Not as soft to stand on
If you have a wet room or are looking for an in-bath mat, consider this vinyl option. It has over 200 suction cups on the bottom to hold it in place, and the top is non-slip, with large holes to ensure any shower water drains away quickly.
This non slip bath mat also comes with two hooks so you can hang it up to dry. It’s not as soft or luxurious as a cotton bath mat, but you can’t argue with the practicality.
Key specifications
| Size | 88 x 39cm |
|---|---|
| Material | Vinyl |
| Non-slip backing | Yes |
| Care instructions | Machine washable at 30 degrees |
SJH Home Surfing Massage Bath Mat
SJH Home Surfing Massage Bath Mat
Pros
- Non-slip bath mat
- Can be controlled via a remote
- Includes an inflatable pillow
Cons
- Doesn’t heat the water so bubbles may feel lukewarm
- Expensive
Another in-bath option, this one steps it up a notch with its jacuzzi jets – it lets you turn your bath into a mini spa! Silicone pads keep the mat suctioned to the bath, while the top has a non-slip surface and soft silicone blocks create a cushioned surface for you to lie on.
Built into the luxury bath mat are 114 mini jets to create the bubbles and there are six speeds to cycle through, ranging from a relaxing, gentle massage to a more intense jacuzzi-style sensation. You’ll likely need a second bath mat for outside the tub, but this is a fun addition to bath time.
Key specifications
| Size | 124 x 43cm |
|---|---|
| Material | PVC |
| Non-slip backing | Yes |
| Care instructions | None |
Oliver Bonas Coral & Green Bordered Striped Bath Mat
Pros
- Colourful
- Absorbent and quick drying
Cons
- Requires a cold wash
- No non-slip features
A bath mat with personality can transform a bathroom and Oliver Bonas is all about colour and character. It’s not a case of style over substance though, as its mats are made from 100% cotton, making them both absorbent and fast drying.
There’s no non-slip back on this one, but its thickness should provide support. Just make sure to follow the care instructions to keep it looking its best.
Key specifications
| Size | 80 x 50cm |
|---|---|
| Material | 100% cotton |
| Non-slip backing | No |
| Care instructions | Wash at 30 degrees |
Pros
- Very absorbent
- Great value
- Has a non-slip backing
Cons
- Smaller than others
- Not as plush or luxurious
This non-slip bath mat is made from a material called diatomite, which is a naturally occurring mineral that can hold up to 150% of its weight in water thanks to the thousands of tiny pores running through it. Diatomite and foam are combined in this design to create a cushioned, yet absorbent surface. It also has an anti-slip backing.
This one is slightly smaller than traditional bath mats and the instructions recommend washing it with soap and water before letting it line dry, which might not suit you. However, if you’re fed up of slow-drying mats, this is a great alternative.
Key specifications
| Size | 60 x 40cm |
|---|---|
| Material | PVC foam and diatom mud materials |
| Non-slip backing | Yes |
| Care instructions | Hand wash |
KEPLIN Memory Foam Bath Mat
KEPLIN Memory Foam Bath Mat
Pros
- Cushioned and luxurious
- Slip resistant
- Comes in a range of sizes
Cons
- Not very quick drying
- Not tumble dryer friendly
Memory foam offers an ultra-soft, plush surface, so you’ll feel like you're stepping onto a cloud when getting out of the shower. The foam interior works to quickly mop away water but will take a while to dry due to the density of the fabric. Hang it out to dry after each use, though, and this shouldn’t be an issue.
The bottom is lined with PVC to stop it slipping and it’s machine washable, so you can refresh it when needed. We would have liked more colours to choose from, but it’s a solid pick.
Key specifications
| Size | 60 x 90cm |
|---|---|
| Material | Foam |
| Non-slip backing | Yes - PVC backing |
| Care instructions | Machine washable |
Ruggable Camden Stripe Multicolor Bath Mat
Ruggable Camden Stripe Multicolor Bath Mat
Pros
- Easy to wash and dry
- Interchangeable covers
- Made to order (helping to reduce waste)
Cons
- Expensive
Ruggable’s bath mat has a unique two-piece design that includes an absorbent cover and a non-slip pad. It makes it easy to keep clean, as you simply remove the cover, pop it in the washing machine, and leave it to dry. It also lets you switch up the design whenever you want, with extra covers available from £89.
It is more expensive than a traditional bathroom mat but it’s absorbent, non-slip, and fast drying. The high-quality design makes it a good choice for the bathroom, but it could also work in other areas of your home.
Key specifications
| Size | 55 x 80cm |
|---|---|
| Material | Cover: 100% polyester; Pad: 100% latex |
| Non-slip backing | Yes - latex |
| Care instructions | Machine washable and tumble dryer friendly |
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
We’ve done in-depth research to ensure our bath mat recommendations cover a range of needs, budgets, and materials. We’ve looked at brands that scored highly in our best bath towels roundup, as we know they perform for softness, absorbency and colour fastness, and many have bath mats featuring similar tech and materials.
We’ve also used information from our sister lab in the US. Our GHI textiles team has rigorously tested a wide range of bathroom rugs and mats, so we used their data and feedback to inform our picks.
The verdict: What is the best bath mat
Our top pick is the Smiry Chenille Bath Mat, which combines a soft surface with high levels of absorbency and a non-slip PVC backing.
If style matters most, an Oliver Bonas bath mat is our top pick. However, if you want a bath mat that combines style with a non-slip backing, Dusk's Kos Scalloped Bath Mat offers excellent value for money.
Finally, for something a little different, the Home Surfing Massage Bath Mat combines a non-slip in-bath surface with mini jets, turning your bath into a jacuzzi.
How do I choose a bath mat?
When you're shopping for your next bath mat, these are the key factors to consider.
Material: You’ll want a fabric that’s absorbent, quick drying, and comfortable to stand on – after all, no one wants to step out of the shower onto a soggy bathroom mat. You’ll find more on the best materials below.
Design: The fabric construction of a bath rug can drastically impact the performance, feel and overall look. Here’s what to look for.
- Pile: Bath mats are often woven with pile, which increases the overall surface area and, as a result, boosts absorbency. Some mats are made of looped pile, similar to that used for a bath towel, while others are made with cut pile, similar to a shaggy rug. Many will combine both cut and loop pile for a decorative effect.
- Memory foam: Mats made with memory foam padding have a plush feel and will soak up a lot of moisture but take a longer time to dry. They're usually covered by microfibre fabric that feels soft to the touch.
- Vinyl: Mats designed to go in the bathtub are often made of vinyl, a plastic material that's easy to clean and long-lasting, but not good at absorbing water.
Non-slip: If you don't want your mat to slip and slide around your bathroom floor, you’ll want to consider one with a non-slip or skid-resistant backing. These are often rubber or latex for a stronger grip. You can also get bath mats treated with non-slip coatings, but the grippy properties could potentially wear off with extended use and washing.
Washing: Cotton bath mats tend to be machine washable but may need to be hung out to dry to prevent shrinkage. Foams and non-slip backings may crumble or peel when washed, and pile can shed, so we recommend following the manufacturer’s instructions (usually located on the care label or in the online product description) when cleaning your bath mat.
What is the best material for a bath mat?
Many of our picks are made with natural fabrics like cotton as we think this is a good Goldilocks option that’s very absorbent, so it will soak up excess moisture, and will be dry by the time you have your next shower.
Synthetic fibres like polyester are less absorbent but often dry more quickly, making it a good option for large households. Cushioned materials like foam will feel luxurious but are slow drying.
It’s also worth considering minerals like diatomite, which offer fast absorbency, but they aren’t as soft and luxurious.
How often should you replace a bath mat?
Bath mats are trodden on daily and are often left wet on our bathroom floors without being aired properly (admit it, you’ve forgotten to hang yours up multiple times), so it’s no surprise they can pick up plenty of grime, but regular washing will help.
“Bath mats should be replaced every one to two years depending on wear and traffic,” says Katie Mortram, Good Housekeeping’s household advice editor. “If there are lingering smells, visible damage (including a loss of grip) or it's not adsorbing like it used to, that's a sign it's time to buy a new one.”
Can you put a bath mat in the washing machine?
The short answer is to always check the manufacturer’s recommendations when it comes to washing. However, most bath mats in our list are machine washable, so you’re spoilt for choice with our top picks.
What is the most hygienic type of bath mat?
Look for a bath mat that’s made from a naturally antibacterial material. Diatomite, for example, is an excellent choice as the stone inhibits bacteria and mould growth due to its fast-drying qualities.
If you love a soft, fluffy bath mat, though, bamboo is a great alternative that also boasts antimicrobial properties.
Megan is the Good Housekeeping Institute’s senior homes and lifestyle writer. She loves diving into the latest product releases to find the very best buys on the market and has written hundreds of product reviews on everything from the best vacuum cleaners and coffee machines to the best ice cream makers and robot window cleaners.
When she’s not writing about the newest gadgets and gizmos for your home and garden, you’ll find her running every distance from 5km to 100km or relaxing at home with her cat – there really is no in between.
Megan has an MA in Magazine Journalism and has previously written for Stylist, Glamour, Women's Health, TimeOut, SquareMeal, and YOU magazine. You can find Megan on Instagram @meganlouisegeall.
