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Bathroom Floor Coverings

Ok, you could just throw down any old rug in front of the tub or bathroom sink. But since most people spend over 15% of their waking life in the bathroom, doesn't that space deserve a little better treatment? Don't you?

First, there is the option of carpeting the entire bathroom. Indoor/outdoor carpeting used to be one way to go. It still is and the look and feel has improved over the years. It's sturdy and long lasting. Treated with stain-resistant, waterproof compounds, it can shed water and handle makeup, hand soap or other spills well.

But most will still want some kind of tile, stone, wood or other flooring. That introduces the need and opportunity for a fine rug of some kind.

Fortunately, the options today are greater than ever.

They provide all the functionality needed. They keep feet from being cold when stepping out of the shower or using the sink or toilet. They soak up water without promoting mildew. They're easy to vacuum without getting caught in the brushes.

But the one thing they never are: ugly. Bathroom rugs today are beautiful.

Long gone are the thick, high-pile fuzzy monstrosities of the past. Today's bathroom throw rug is subtle or dazzling, elegant or entertaining. But whatever motif suits your fancy, they compliment and complete the decor.

Don't forget about the value of color.

Have a fine set of plush, white Turkish towels hanging on the rack? Offset their lack of color with some sea green ovals for the sink and tub. Prefer the rich Hunter green hand towels and washcloths that go so well with your Victorian bronze fixtures? Keep the space from becoming too dark by adding a light beige or cream knit at the entrance.

Bathroom rugs can make the space appear larger or smaller, too.

Keep in mind the shape and size of your bathroom floor. An oval will provide the needed function but leave space and display the floor. That provides contrast and gives the impression of opening up the room. Larger bathrooms can bear a larger rug alongside the tub and still give a feeling of roominess.

Integrating your bathroom rug design with the overall decor gives a sense of completeness. Even a multi-colored, abstract design can integrate well with the overall scheme. After all, a Jackson Pollack painting hangs in the area with the other modern paintings, not in the section with European old masters.

That goal is easy to accomplish with the range of styles available today. And what could be more fun than looking through the many different options?