The 2026 Bathroom Trend That'll Make Your Space Instantly Look Modern Instead Of Dated

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

Bath mats are one of those items that always seem unsightly or even a little old-fashioned. They often come in neutral colors, awkwardly small sizes, and are more functional than stylish. Their presence in the bathroom does have a practical purpose though. They prevent slipping on tile, they keep your feet warm after a shower, and they also protect your floors from getting wet. But who says you can't have function and design? Even though there have been many trends aimed at giving the household item a little more flair — from striped and checkered patterns to novelty mats with quirky phrases — the traditional bath mat is just becoming one of those décor items that look severely outdated. So, in 2026, expect to see people ditching the standard bath mat and replacing it with an elegant rug.

Not only does a rug make a bathroom instantly feel more modern and elevated, but it can also be a more hygienic option. We've learned that the classic bath mat is not always our friend because their plush and textile fabrics can hold moisture, leading to the growth of mold and mildew. Rugs, on the other hand, are now available in a variety of quick-drying, water-resistant materials such as polypropylene, polyester, and acrylic. Plus, many brands are creating machine-washable options. And the best part? There's an endless selection of colors and patterns to choose from.

The great thing about this new trend is that you are not confined to the bath mat section of your local HomeGoods or Target, even though they do have some of the best home décor, according to shoppers. There's undeniably way more choice when shopping for rugs than when looking for traditional bath mats. So, whether you're decorating a vintage-inspired bathroom — which would look great paired with a Persian-style or faded floral rug — or you're on the hunt for the perfect minimalist piece for your Scandinavian-inspired space, you'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to finding the perfect bathroom rug.

Some retailers have already started selling rugs designed specifically for bathrooms, like this machine-washable option from Anthropologie, which comes in small or large sizes. However, there's no reason you can't explore rugs created for other areas of the home. Ruggable, for example, is one of the best brands to consider for washable kitchen rugs and offers plenty of options that would work beautifully in a bathroom. One important thing to note is that while traditional bath mats often come with a non-slip bottom, many rugs will not have that feature. To prevent the rug from shifting, which is not only annoying but also a potential safety hazard, it's a good idea to invest in an anti-slip underlay, like these BALEINE Non Slip Rug Pad Rug Grippers from Amazon.