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    Best Bath Mats

    We tried flat, fluffy, and downright cozy bath mats to found out which materials felt nicest, were absorbent and easy to vacuum, and dried quickly

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    Clockwise from top right: Lands' End Premium Supima Cotton Non-skid Bath Rug, Amazon Basics Non-Slip Microfiber Shag Bathroom Rug Mat, Grandaily Chenille Striped Bathroom Rug Mat, and Cold Picnic Cliffside bath mat Photos: Lands' End, Amazon Basics, Consumer Reports, Cold Picnic

    Getting out of the bath or shower only to step on a grimy, flattened bath mat is an immensely unpleasant experience, and is one I closely associate with living with roommates in my early twenties. A sparkling clean bath mat, however, reminds me of one of my favorite places to relax—a fancy hotel—and is a sensation I think we all deserve to bring home, regardless of our age or roommate status. 

    More on Bathrooms

    So what makes a good bath mat? Apart from laundering it regularly—and truly, this is crucial—a good bath mat should be appropriate for your climate and sensory preferences. A fluffy, high-pile shag bath mat won’t appeal to all bathers, nor will it retain its fluff if not hung to dry between bathing sessions. And in a humid bathroom, particularly one without a window or an exhaust fan, a bath mat will require extra care.

    But regardless of care, you have to start out with a good product. We took a lot of showers over the course of a month to find which of seven bath mats is the best for your home. 

    Become a member to read the full article and get access to digital ratings.

    We investigate, research, and test so you can choose with confidence.