Definition of bath mat

The term "bath mat" originated in the late 19th century as a result of the growing popularity of indoor plumbing and bathrooms in modern homes. Prior to this, people typically bathed in outdoor or communal spaces, such as public bathhouses or rivers, and did not need a mat to step on after washing. As bathing at home became more common, the need for a mat to prevent slippage on wet floors arose. Initially, bath mats were made of simple materials, such as woven towels or rag rugs, and were placed on the floor near the bathtub or sink. The first commercially manufactured bath mats were created in the early 1900s by companies like Banford Brothers and Shaw Carpets. These mats were made of materials such as rubber, linoleum, and synthetic fibers, which provided better traction and durability than traditional washcloths or towels. The popularity of bath mats continued to grow throughout the 20th century, as more and more people began installing private bathrooms in their homes. Today, bath mats come in a wide range of styles, materials, and patterns, from simple loop pile designs to intricate tile mosaics, and are an essential part of bathroom hygiene and safety.