Attractive And Cleaner Alternatives To Toilet Rugs

Toilet rugs are a mainstay in many bathrooms, but it cannot be denied that their design is intrinsically flawed. While their purpose is practical, bathroom rugs are notorious for being gross, being placed on dirty bathroom floors that aren't being cleaned enough. Their filthiness understandably increases if you position one in the shadow of your toilet where they may get splashed with toilet water on the regular. Beyond the unsanitary factor, there are also the aesthetics of the matter to consider, with traditional toilet rugs looking dated and potentially bringing down the visual appeal of your bathroom. If you are disgusted by how unfashionable and dirty your toilet rugs are, perhaps it's time to think of a cleaner and more attractive option.

When looking for a better option for a toilet rug, there are a few factors to consider, like how easy it will be to maintain, if it's waterproof, and if it's antimicrobial, like certain non-fabric options. It may also be best to avoid rubber-backed rugs designed to lock in moisture as they may result in festering bacteria. Additionally, while some mats might look nice (slatted bamboo, for example), these could simply result in an accumulation of hair, moisture, and bacteria collecting underneath. As you find the perfect combination of elements for your new toilet rug, paying attention to these factors will ensure you find a good long-term solution.

If you're looking for a mat to place near your toilet to prevent slipping, the 100poinONE non-slip bathroom mat from Amazon, available for $30, could be a good option. Its clear design makes it blend in seamlessly into your bathroom flooring, rather than breaking up the visual continuity. It's supposed to be easy to clean, as well, with the care instructions stating that it can be wiped with a wet cloth when it becomes grungy. Many customers who have purchased the mat criticize it for how difficult the plastic is to unroll, but other buyers swear by its appearance and performance. However, several reviewers claim that if you leave the product in a warm area for a few hours, the mat will become more pliable. 

Another non-traditional, non-fabric option is the Amoami leather toilet mat from Amazon for $19.79. It boasts non-slipping performance that is quick drying and easy to clean. Available in light and dark gray, it works well with many bathroom aesthetics and over half of their reviewers gave the product 5-stars. "I didn't want one of those shaggy mats, which look so unsanitary, so [I] went online searching for a smooth, flat one, and I'm really glad I found AMOAMI," one reviewer wrote. "It's as promised; easy to clean, looks nice, and does the job!" This option is easy to care for, which is a benefit as there is a rule as to how often bath mats should be cleaned. For this product, simply, vacuum it, rinse with water, or wipe it with a damp cloth.

Perhaps you'd like a more sanitary option for your toilet rug but still prefer something that has a plush sensation. In this case, you may want to investigate fabrics that have antimicrobial properties. These materials are resistant to the thriving of bacteria and are therefore easier to maintain in a state of cleanliness. One challenge is that these types of rugs can be difficult to find as they are a more niche product, but one option is the Crosby St. Ocre antimicrobial bath rug from At Home, priced at $13, which states it is made with antimicrobial properties. Although this rug is not shaped to contour around the base of a toilet, you can still place one of these cleaner rugs in front of it  (or, if you're a seamstress, you could try your hand at modifying the rug to fit better).

Finally, while quick-drying rugs cannot be said to be antimicrobial, drier rugs will not grow bacteria as fast. Quick-drying toilet rugs, like the Color&Geometry quick drying rug from Amazon for $20, will be easier to wash and dry on a regular basis, making it a cleaner choice for your bathroom. This particular product also has immense visual appeal, and will give any bathroom a boho vibe."It's a generous size, covering a substantial area around the toilet," one reviewer wrote. "I appreciate it immensely because it remains stationary, doesn't slide, and its corners stay flat. It's truly excellent!" While finding the right mixture of hygiene and performance in a toilet rug can be challenging, it is entirely possible if you know what to look for.