How Do I Choose the Best Laundry Room Rug?

While the criteria for choosing a laundry room rug is largely a matter of aesthetics, a few features of a good rug will make paying a bit more a worthwhile move. The first step you will want to take when choosing your laundry room rug is to measure the space to determine how large or small of a rug you need, as well as what shape will work best in the space. Rugs are not always square or rectangular; they can be round, or even custom shapes, though you will want to be careful when choosing a rug with an odd shape, as excess corners can cause a tripping hazard.

Perhaps the most important feature you should look for when purchasing a laundry room rug is a non-slip surface that will prevent the rug from shifting or otherwise moving when you are standing on it. The floors of laundry rooms can get wet and slippery, so a rug without a non-slip surface may be more prone to movement. Choose a laundry room rug with this type of surface, but make sure that non-slip surface is machine washable as well to make cleaning the rug easier when necessary.

The rug itself should be machine washable, since you are more likely to toss the rug into the washer than to take it outside and beat it clean. Synthetic fibers are best, since they are usually easy to wash and resistant to mold, mildew, and other water damage. A laundry room rug made from natural fibers may be more comfortable and attractive, but you will need to keep in mind that more maintenance may be necessary, and it may be more susceptible to mold and mildew.

A rubber mat may also be a good choice for a laundry room rug. These heavy mats are often water-resistant and cushioned for comfort. If you will be standing for long periods of time in the laundry room, this type of rug may be best for keeping you comfortable. The cushion provided by the mat will help prevent legs and feet from tiring quickly.

The aesthetics of the rug are really a matter of preference. Some people like solid colors without patterns, while others prefer patterns or several colors. Try to choose a laundry room rug that will fit with the overall decor of the room, or if the room is drab to begin with, consider choosing a lighter colored rug to lighten up the room and make it more pleasant to work in.