Most bath rugs fail at the backing, not the pile.

Glazed tile gives a rug very little friction, especially when wet, so the backing does the work. A rug with an intact rubber or TPR backing, or a non-slip pad cut slightly smaller than the rug, keeps it in place; once a rubber backing cracks or peels, it stops gripping. Our guide to stopping a rug from sliding on tile covers the fixes.

Most can go in the washer, but check the care label first. Rubber- and latex-backed rugs usually last longer washed in cold water and air-dried, because heat breaks the backing down, and fabric softener leaves a coating that makes the pile less absorbent. Memory foam needs gentler handling than cotton or chenille; our washing guide goes material by material.

Measure the spot where you step out of the tub or shower. Around 20 by 32 inches covers the exit of most standard tubs, 17 by 24 suits a sink or powder room, and a runner around 24 by 60 fits along a long vanity. Leave room for a swinging door so it does not catch the rug; our size guide has the full chart.