Stone bath mats have become increasingly popular in recent years as an alternative to traditional fabric bath mats. But are they actually worth the higher price tag? Here is an in-depth look at the pros and cons of stone bath mats to help you decide if investing in one is right for your bathroom.
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What are stone bath mats?
Stone bath mats, sometimes also called pebble mats or rock mats, are bath mats made out of small, smooth stones held together with latex backing. The most common types of stone used are river rocks, marble, and slate. They often have a mosaic style pattern and come in different colors like white, gray, brown, and black.
Stone bath mats have a very different look and feel compared to regular fabric bath mats. They are heavy, durable, and have an earthy, natural style. The pebbles provide grip and massage your feet as you step out of the shower. The porous rocks also allow for drainage and air circulation to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Benefits of stone bath mats
Here are some of the touted benefits of using a stone bath mat in your bathroom:
- Stylish, spa-like appearance – The natural stone materials and massage-like feel lend a spa or luxury feel to your bathroom. They can instantly upgrade the look of a bathroom.
- Durable and long-lasting – High quality stone mats can last for many years with proper care and avoid issues like mold, cracking, fraying, and wearing thin over time.
- Stays put – The heavy weight and grip of the stone materials prevent the mat from shifting, crumpling up, or sliding around like fabric mats often do.
- Odor and stain resistant – The stone materials won’t absorb odors, stains, or dirt like fabric. They are very easy to clean.
- Safer and more hygienic – Stone materials won’t grow mold or bacteria like fabric. The texture provides traction to prevent slips.
- Eco-friendly and natural – Stone is a natural material. Most stone bath mats contain recycled content.
- Therapeutic – Walking on the smooth stones can massage and stimulate pressure points on your feet.
Potential drawbacks
On the other hand, there are a few potential disadvantages associated with stone bath mats to consider:
- Higher price point – Stone bath mats typically range from $30 to $100, while basic fabric mats cost $10 to $30.
- Heavier and harder to move – The weight of a stone mat makes it a bit challenging to pick up and launder.
- Can be cold underfoot – The stone materials will feel cold when you first step out of the warm shower.
- Risk of cracked tiles if dropped – Dropping a heavy stone mat risks cracking tiles underneath.
- Doesn’t absorb water – The water rolls off which can pool around the mat and require more towels for drying off feet.
- Takes longer to dry – Air drying a stone mat usually takes a few hours compared to a fabric mat.
Maintenance and care
Caring for a stone bath mat requires a bit more effort than a fabric one. Here are some tips for keeping a stone mat looking its best:
- Shake and air dry the mat thoroughly after each use before putting away to prevent mildew growth in damp crevices.
- Use mild soap and water to scrub the mat as needed. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners.
- Check the latex backing for cracks and re-adhere any loose stones.
- Avoid excessive direct sunlight exposure to prevent fading.
- Consider applying sealant initially and every few years to protect from stains.
- Rotate the mat 180 degrees weekly to distribute wear and tear.
Cost comparison
Here is a cost comparison of basic fabric bath mats versus higher end stone bath mats:
| Bath Mat Type | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|
| Basic fabric | $10 – $30 |
| Mid-range fabric | $30 – $60 |
| Luxury fabric | $60 – $100 |
| Small stone mat | $30 – $60 |
| Large stone mat | $50 – $100 |
The average price of a stone bath mat runs 2 to 3 times higher than a basic fabric mat. However, stone mats are comparable in cost to luxury fabric bath mats when you factor in the longer lifespan of the stone materials.
FAQs
Are stone bath mats soft on your feet?
Stone bath mats provide a firm, textured surface rather than soft cushioning underfoot. The pebbles and rock material can give a massaging sensation. The mats offer adequate comfort for short periods of standing but are not as soft as fabric or rubber mats.
Do you put stone bath mats in the washer and dryer?
No, stone bath mats should not go in the washer or dryer like fabric mats. The agitation and heat can damage the latex backing and cause stones to fall off. Stone mats should only be spot cleaned by hand with gentle soap and water and air dried.
How do you clean a stone bath mat?
It’s best to clean stone bath mats by hand. Simply shake off any loose debris outdoors first. Then use a mild soap and scrub brush to clean the mat with warm water, focusing on crevices and the latex backing. Avoid submerging the mat completely in water if possible. Thoroughly rinse off soap and let the mat air dry for a few hours before putting away.
Should stone bath mats be sealed?
Sealing a stone bath mat is advisable to protect from dirt, stains, and water absorption. The sealing process involves fully saturating the mat with a water-based stone sealant. This is typically done once on a brand new mat. Reapply sealant every 2-3 years. Sealing is not mandatory but helps preserve the color and appearance of natural stone bath mats with frequent use.
Can you put stone bath mats outside?
It is best not to place natural stone bath mats outdoors permanently. The weather exposure can damage the latex backing and cause the stones to degrade and crack over time. You can shake them off outside after use and bring them back inside. For outdoor spa and shower areas, look for bath mats specifically designed as outdoor models with UV protection.
How thick should a stone bath mat be?
Stone bath mat thickness can range from 0.5 inch to 1.5 inches. Mats around 1 inch thickness provide both comfort and easy cleaning between stones. Thinner 0.5 inch mats are more affordable while still offering support. Thicker 1.5 inch deluxe mats provide maximum softness underfoot but require more thorough drying to prevent mildew in inner layers.
Can you cut stone bath mats to fit?
It is not recommended to cut or alter the size of stone bath mats. The mats are designed precisely to hold the stone components together. Cutting them risks unravelling or damaging the latex backing. Choose a mat size that best fits your space rather than trying to trim it down. Go for rectangular mats around 20 inches x 30 inches for versatility to fit different tub sizes.
Conclusion
Stone bath mats offer unique style and impressive durability that can justify their higher price for many homeowners. Their natural stone materials bring graceful beauty to bathrooms that fabric mats cannot replicate. They also pamper feet with massaging texture while standing up to the damp bathroom environment for years with proper care. Just be prepared to put in some extra effort maintaining and cleaning them compared to the convenience of tossing fabric mats in the laundry.
Evaluate whether the pros of appearance and longevity make them a smart investment that aligns with your priorities. They may not suit families with young children and pets that require constant laundering. Get the right size mat for a custom fit. Take time to regularly maintain stone bath mats so they remain visually appealing and do not become a breeding ground for mildew. With the right expectations, stone bath mats can be an elegant addition that brings a little spa-like luxury into your daily showers.