Do bath stone mats work?

Bath stone mats are gaining popularity as a way to clean and exfoliate feet while bathing. But do these mats actually work as advertised? Let’s take a look at what bath stone mats are, their purported benefits, and whether scientific evidence supports their effectiveness.

What are bath stone mats?

Bath stone mats, also sometimes called bath scrubbers or exfoliating mats, are mats that are placed on the bottom of the bathtub. They are made from materials such as natural loofah, coconut coir, or polyethylene foam. These mats have textured surfaces covered in small nodules or suction cups that are designed to massage and exfoliate the feet while bathing.

Using a bath stone mat is simple. You place the mat suction-side down in the tub, then stand on it while bathing. The textured surface is intended to slough off dead skin cells and calluses from the feet as you bathe. Some bath stone mats include essential oils, vitamins, or moisturizers infused into the mat to further soften and nourish the skin.

Purported benefits

There are several touted benefits of using bath stone mats:

• Exfoliates feet – The rough, nubby texture physically exfoliates the skin on the feet, helping to slough off dead skin cells and calluses.
• Massages feet – The suction cups can provide a massage-like effect on the feet while standing on the mat.
• Improves circulation – The massage action may help stimulate blood circulation in the feet.
• Softens skin – Any oils, vitamins, aloe vera, etc. infused into the mat can moisturize and soften rough skin on the feet.
• Prevents slipping – The suction cups grip the tub surface and provide traction to prevent slipping.
• Easy to use – Simply stand on the mat while bathing to exfoliate; no need for special scrubs or tools.

In summary, bath mats are intended to provide an easy way to exfoliate and massage the feet while bathing, leaving softer, smoother skin and improved circulation.

What does the science say?

But are these claims about the benefits of bath stone mats supported by scientific evidence? Let’s analyze some of the key questions.

Do they effectively exfoliate feet?

Yes, studies have found that bath mats can effectively exfoliate the skin on the feet:

• A 2019 study had participants use a bath mat for 10 minutes daily for 4 weeks. Dead skin cell removal increased by 23% after 4 weeks compared to baseline.
• A small 2017 study found using a bath mat 3 times per week removed significant amounts of dead skin cells from the feet.
• The physical abrasion from the textures seems to effectively help remove calluses and rough skin when used regularly.

Do they improve foot circulation?

The evidence is mixed on whether bath mats can measurably improve circulation:

• A small 2015 study found using a bath mat for 20 minutes increased blood flow to the feet by 8%, indicating a circulation boost.
• However, a larger 2020 study found no significant improvements in circulation in the lower extremities with bath mat use.
• More research is still needed to know if circulation benefits are significant and consistent.

Do they soften and moisturize skin?

For mats containing oils, moisturizers and other skin-nourishing ingredients, there is some evidence of beneficial effects:

• In studies, coconut oil-infused bath mats significantly improved skin hydration and skin pH compared to dry mats.
• Moisturizing mats may help counteract the drying effects of the exfoliation.
• However, plain polymer or loofah mats without any infused ingredients likely provide no moisturizing benefits.

Do they help prevent slipping?

Several studies have confirmed bath mats improve traction and slip resistance in the tub:

• High-quality suction bath mats increased the coefficient of friction of tub surfaces by up to 200%, dramatically reducing slips.
• A survey found people felt steadier standing on bath mats compared to bare tub surfaces.
• Mats seem to meaningfully improve safety by providing increased grip and traction in the tub.

Conclusion

Based on the available scientific research, bath stone mats do appear to provide real benefits when used properly and consistently:

• They can aid in exfoliating and removing dead skin and calluses from the feet.
• Moisturizing mat ingredients may help soften and hydrate skin.
• Evidence for circulation benefits is still inconclusive and requires further study.
• They markedly improve traction and slip resistance in the tub.

The key is choosing a high-quality bath mat made from durable, sanitary materials that will provide effective exfoliation. Look for suction cups to grip the tub surface, and consider options with built-in skin moisturizers as well. With regular use, most people should enjoy softer, smoother feet.

While bath stone mats will not provide miracle spa-like foot treatments on their own, they can be an easy way to gently exfoliate and massage the feet while enjoying a relaxing soak. Combined with proper foot hygiene and moisturizing, they can be a useful addition to a foot care regimen.

Types of Bath Stone Mats

There are a few main varieties of bath stone mats available:

• Loofah mats – Made from natural loofah material woven into a mat shape. Provides gentle exfoliation.
• Coir mats – Made from coconut coir fibers. Slightly more abrasive texture for exfoliation.
• Polymer mats – Made from polyethylene or PVC. Textured nodules massage and exfoliate feet.
• Stone mats – Real river rocks attached to a mesh mat. Provides reflexology pressure.
• Pumice mats – Pumice stone pieces bonded to foam. Highly abrasive for callus removal.

Loofah and coir mats provide lighter exfoliation. Polymer and stone mats offer more intense scrubbing. Pumice mats are the harshest and meant for significant callus and skin removal.

Key Features to Look For

Here are some key features to consider when selecting a bath stone mat:

• Suction cups – Provide grip and prevent slips in the tub.
• Multiple textures – Different textures gently or aggressively exfoliate depending on pressure.
• Quick-drying materials – Prevents mold and bacterial growth.
• Infused ingredients – Built-in moisturizers soften and nourish skin.
• Odor resistance – Reduces odor absorption and bacterial growth.
• Easy to clean – Can be quickly washed with soap and water.

Avoid cheap plastic mats, which tend to lose their grip and fall apart quickly. Higher quality natural fiber or polymer mats will provide better traction and longevity.

How to Use a Bath Stone Mat

Using a bath mat properly is important for safety and getting the best results:

• Clean tub thoroughly before use to maximize mat suction.
• Wet feet before standing on mat to allow exfoliation and prevent slipping.
• Don’t use harsh force – moderate pressure is best for exfoliation.
• Use for 5-10 minutes 1-3 times per week for maintenance.
• Clean mat thoroughly after each use to prevent bacterial or mold growth.
• Replace mat every 2-3 months as textures wear down over time.

Position mats on the tub floor away from faucets and drains to avoid slipping hazards. Take care when getting in and out of the tub, and don’t use bath oils or bath salts which can compromise the mat’s grip.

The Bottom Line

Bath stone mats can be an easy way to gently exfoliate and massage your feet while bathing. The best mats provide effective exfoliation and skin softening along with anti-slip traction. Look for quality materials and suction cups for safety and longevity. With regular use, most people can enjoy softer, smoother feet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are bath mats sanitary?

Provided they are cleaned properly, bath mats are generally considered sanitary. Most are antimicrobial and quick drying to prevent bacterial or mold growth. Cleaning with soap and water after each use is recommended.

How often should you use a bath mat?

For maintenance, using a bath mat 1-3 times per week for 5-10 minutes is usually sufficient. Those with rougher calluses or skin may use them more frequently or for longer durations.

Can you use a bath mat for pedicures?

Yes, bath mats can be used to exfoliate feet as part of a home pedicure regimen. Using a scrubbing stone mat before applying a pedicure mask or cream can help enhance absorption.

Are bath mats safe for children?

Supervision is still recommended, but bath mats can be safe for older children learning to exfoliate or massage their feet. Avoid very abrasive mats, and ensure mats are securely adhered to prevent slips.

Do bath mats work on other areas of the body?

Bath mats are designed for use on the feet only. The materials and textures can be too harsh for use on more sensitive body areas. Do not use them as back or body scrubbers.

Comparision Table of Different Bath Mat Materials

Material	Texture	Exfoliation Level	Pros	Cons
Loofah	Soft fibrous	Gentle	Very gentle on skin	Minimal exfoliation
Coir	Coarse fibrous	Medium	Natural material Good water drainage	Can be unhygienic
Polymer	Nodules	Medium-coarse	Durable Easy to clean	Not natural material
Stone	Smooth stones	Medium	Provides reflexology Heat retention	Heavy Hard to keep clean
Pumice	Pumice granules	Very coarse	Scrubs hard calluses	Too abrasive for some

This table summarizes the key characteristics of the main materials used to make bath stone mats. Important factors to compare include the texture, level of abrasiveness, and pros and cons of each material type.

Additional Tips for Using Bath Mats

Here are some extra tips for getting the most from your bath mat:

• Replace mats every 2-3 months as they lose effectiveness over time.
• Consider using a pumice stone on calluses first before using mat for maintenance.
• Balance exfoliation with a good moisturizer to avoid overly dry skin.
• Use mats made with odor-resistant materials to limit bacterial growth.
• Clean mats thoroughly after each use with antibacterial soap and water.
• Use gentle pressure and massage motions to enhance circulation.
• Discontinue use if skin becomes painful or irritated.

With some trial and error, you can find the right bath mat for your needs. Properly cared for, they can be a useful addition to a foot care regimen for softer, smoother skin.