Table of Contents:
Bathrooms have witnessed the most legendary moments – from the historical ‘eureka!’ and solo concerts to peaceful naps and teary breakdowns.
The time spent in bathrooms is important enough for writers like Sylvia Plath to have commented, “There must be quite a few things a hot bath won't cure, but I don't know many of them. Whenever I'm sad I'm going to die, or so nervous I can't sleep, or in love with somebody I won't be seeing for a week, I slump down just so far, and then I say: "I'll go take a hot bath.”
Long story short, bathrooms are just that bit of precious space in your home, and their decor has to be spot-on. Every element needs to be placed judiciously, including your rug, which often anchors the entire space.
Your bathroom rug is not just a functional addition but also has aesthetic potential — it can become the pièce de résistance of your luxury bathroom decor. So, safe to say bathroom rug placement has to be a well-thought-out decision.
Seems to be quite a task, isn’t it? Not if you have guidance from ali & shea!
So, upgrade the style quotient of your bathroom with simple and easy bathroom rug placement ideas laid down in this guide.
Determining the Right Size and Shape for Bathroom Rugs
Measuring bathroom space is important when selecting rugs that fit well and enhance the functionality of the space.
For instance, rugs that you place near sinks should be smaller in size to prevent interference, while the ones near toilets and showers need to accommodate foot traffic and water splashes (also, very important, prevent slips and accidents).
Opt for smaller rugs for small bathrooms to avoid overcrowding, while medium-sized bathrooms can accommodate slightly larger ones. In larger bathrooms, consider using multiple rugs to define separate areas.
Here is a brief rug size guide to help you make the right selection.
Small Bathrooms | 2x3 feet |
Medium-Sized Bathrooms | 3x5 feet |
Large Bathrooms | 5x8 feet |
Generally, round rugs are better for large bathrooms, adding a sense of fluidity and softening sharp edges. They're particularly suitable for open floor plans or spacious layouts.
Rectangular or square rugs, on the other hand, are ideal for smaller bathrooms, where every inch counts. Their well-defined edges create a sense of structure and maximize usable space. Additionally, rectangular rugs can be placed neatly against walls or cabinets, optimizing floor coverage without overwhelming the area.
Material & Design Selection for Bathroom Rugs
The bathroom is an area that is constantly wet and notorious for mold and mildew growth. Therefore, absorbency, quick drying, and ease of maintenance should be given top priority when selecting materials for bathroom rugs.
Pick fabrics such as cotton or microfiber that guarantee optimum moisture absorption, thus preventing moisture retention and possible growth of mold.
Moreover, materials demanding minimal upkeep, like machine-washable fabrics, reduce the cleaning schedules and preserve long-lasting freshness. Furthermore, considering the rug's design is also important, warranting its seamless integration with the master bathroom's aesthetic essence. Opting for harmonious hues, patterns, and textures helps the rug sit gracefully among the rest of the decor, anchoring the space.
Bathroom Rug Placement Ideas
Now that the size bit is solved, let’s delve into the best rug placement ideas for bathrooms:
Near the Sink: Rugs under and around sinks are a rather clever way to catch spills and drips while preventing the floor from getting wet. This improves bathroom safety by eliminating slips on wet surfaces and also maintaining cleanliness.
Beside the Toilet/Bidet: U-shaped bathroom rugs are hygienic and visually pleasing, particularly in small bathroom rug placement. In addition to providing a comfortable surface for walking on, they keep water from building up around these fixtures, boosting hygiene and averting possible trip risks.
Along Walking Routes: Runner rugs strategically placed along high footfall areas offer added safety and floor protection. By offering both traction and cushioning, these items mitigate the chances of slipping on smooth surfaces while simultaneously protecting the floor from damage.
Center Rugs and Accent Pieces: In spacious bathrooms, larger rugs can function as eye-catching focal points, grounding the overall design and infusing the expansive space with a sense of warmth. In compact spaces, smaller accent rugs can be used to inject personality and style without overwhelming the limited area or compromising functionality.
Areas to Avoid for Bathroom Rug Placement
Now that we’re done and dusted with rug placement ideas, let’s also go over places to avoid for bathroom rug placement.
Do not place rugs inside wet-room areas where excessive moisture retention can lead to mold and mildew growth and compromise hygiene standards in your bathroom.
Placing rugs under bathroom doors may impede their movement, causing friction and potential damage to both the rug and the door, a big no-no!
Be cautious not to position rugs in spots that could create tripping hazards, such as near-door thresholds or narrow passageways. To be safe, use rug pads to keep your rugs from sliding inside bathrooms.
Conclusion
Whether a master bathroom or a guest bathroom, small, big, and all sizes in between, there’s a rug for each. Just keep a few things in mind, like your rug's material and size choice, and then place it strategically.
If you want to level up your bathroom into a luxury space, contact ali & shea and avail our complete home interior design service.
We only hope to help you create an equally cozy and inviting space for you to unwind and relax. So, happy decorating!
FAQs
Can I put an area rug in my bathroom?
Certainly! Adding an area rug to your bathroom will add some coziness and style. To effectively withstand and survive the bathroom atmosphere, ensure the rug is composed of moisture-resistant fabrics like cotton or microfiber.
Do I need a rug in front of my bathroom sink?
Where should rugs be placed in a bathroom?