:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Best-Stone-Bath-Mats-SPR-tout-1f92c22d492a4977b54a20d25734a3a5.jpg)
The Spruce / David Hattan
When you think of an absorbent bath mat, the first material that comes to mind probably isn’t stone. How can a bath mat made out of stone be functional and safe? The answer: diatomaceous earth. Diatomite is a very porous, lightweight, and crumbly stone substance that can be found in both marine and freshwater systems. “Stone bath mats are an aesthetically appealing, low-maintenance choice that gives any bathroom a crisp, clean, spa-like feel,” says Cindy Tadie, residential designer at Kathy Adams Furniture & Design in Dallas, Texas. They’re fast becoming popular in many luxury bathrooms across America, largely thanks to their sleek look and highly absorbent, porous properties.
That said, there’s no way that you would ever confuse this hard, stone bath mat for an absorbent, soft cloth bath mat. However, stone bath mats more than make up for their lack of soft cushioning in their durability and ability to dry very quickly, limiting the amount of bacteria that can collect in them over time. We pored through dozens of the top-selling stone bath mats and spent hours researching the most durable, comfortable, functional, and highly-rated stone mats on the market so that you can quickly and easily come to a decision as to which one best suits your needs and style.
Best Overall
Mondano Stone Bath Mat
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Mondano-Stone-Bath-Mat-115d3da0cebc4140809f7ec9ccfde65f.jpg)
Amazon
Affordable
Neutral, multi-use design and color scheme
Can be sanded to renew the look of the mat
Only available in one size and color option
Pattern can be uncomfortable on bare feet
The Mondano Stone Bath Mat is a multifunctional stone bath mat that can do double duty in your bathroom, laundry room, or entryway (you can even choose to use it as a dish-drying mat if you prefer). Highly absorbent and quick to dry, it's constructed from a combination of diatomaceous earth, quartz, and pulp fiber, making it exceptionally durable.
Thanks to the way it's constructed, this mat is a bit more rigid than traditional bath mats. It features a distinctive and tasteful pattern that helps adds traction when stepping out of the bath or shower, but the quartz component can feel a little sharp or scratchy on bare feet.
This is a great choice for homes that use a robot vacuum that can get jammed on regular cloth bath mats. Just keep in mind that you have to use the included anti-slip mat that comes with it in order to protect your floors and prevent any movement during use.
Price at time of publish: $70
Dimensions: 23.6 x 15.4 x 1 inches | Weight: 5.99 pounds | Colors: Graphite Grey
Best Budget
CozyNook Diatomaceous Earth Bath Mat
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/CozyNook-Diatomaceous-Earth-Bath-Mat-b3f0546a86b945ab878e4443f7c39a2d.jpg)
Amazon
More affordable than other choices
Super slim and low-profile design
Machine washable, unlike many other choices
May be too small for many bathrooms
Less durable and long-lasting than thicker, heavier stone mats
For the budget-conscious buyer, the CozyNook Diatomaceous Earth Bath Mat is an affordable and dependable option that offers a super low-profile, yet highly absorbent design. The slim height of this natural stone bath mat is ideal for doors that don’t offer a lot of clearance when opening or closing. It’s also a great choice for smaller bathrooms, hot tubs, and patios. Because of its slim design, this mat also dries super quickly.
Unlike most other stone bath mats, this one can be machine washed (for smaller messes or stains, you can just clean it with a damp cloth). It’s lightweight enough to easily move around the house or hang up to get out of the way. This model does provide a somewhat less luxurious feel than some other more solidly constructed mats, however. It’s also less durable and long-lasting. Also, if you’re looking for a larger bath mat that will run the length of your tub or shower door, this one may fall a bit short.
Price at time of publish: $25
Dimensions: 23.6 x 15.4 x 0.16 inches | Weight: 1.26 pounds | Colors: Grey
Best Splurge
Sutera Stone Bath Mat
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/sutera-stone-bath-mat-cc1d840c2621485f97179e4b7ec7d078.jpg)
Amazon
Better absorbency than some other options on the list
Available in several different color and pattern choices
Made from 100 percent diatomaceous earth
Pricey compared to many other choices
Might bow or warp initially
The Sutera Stone Bath Mat is a premium quality stone mat constructed from 100 percent diatomaceous earth. Because it's free of fillers and other stone additives, it's more absorbent and quick drying than some other choices. We also appreciate that it’s available in several different colors and pattern choices, giving you more options to better match your bathroom decor. This mat also gets high marks for being more comfortable and easier on bare feet than some stone bath mats on the market.
While this mat is a great choice for bathrooms, you can also use it as a dish-drying mat or to put your pet’s food bowls on. While it is a little more on the expensive side, its solid construction and multiple color choices make it well worth the added investment. One thing to note: this mat does tend to bow or warp initially, but after several uses, it will settle down into a flat mat.
Price at time of publish: $60
Dimensions: 23.5 x 15 inches | Weight: 6.59 pounds | Colors: Grey, Granite, Slate
Best Large
Momo Lifestyle Drytomita Grande Bath Mat
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Momo-Lifestyle-Drytomita-Grande-Bath-Mat-03d9a4912a1142e3b2550ac0ff273eb2.jpg)
Amazon
Large, spacious mat that comes in a single piece
Lack of patterning is more comfortable on bare feet
Nonslip backing is built into the bottom of the mat so as not to scratch floors
Somewhat pricey
Lack of patterning makes this mat a little less grippy than some others
Many of the stone bath mats on the market tend to be on the small side, which is great if you have a smaller space that you want to use it for. However, the Momo Lifestyle Drytomita Grande Bath Mat is your clear choice if you have a larger floor area that you want to protect. Unlike some other larger mat choices, this one comes in a solid, continuous piece. It’s also super comfortable since it lacks the patterning that most other mats feature.
Measuring 32 x 20 inches, this mat is an ideal choice for entryways, patios, pools, and hot tubs. It’s also available in a choice of two neutral colors. Unlike other stone mats, the nonslip backing is built into the underside of the mat for secure anchoring to your floor without damaging it. Of course, since this mat is on the larger side, the price tag is as well. And, while it may be more comfortable on bare feet than many other mats, the lack of patterning does detract somewhat from its antislip nature when compared with some of the competition.
Price at time of publish: $110
Dimensions: 32 x 20 x 0.35 inches | Weight: 8.4 pounds | Colors: Linen Grey, Graphite Grey
Best Customizable
Dorai Large Bath Stone
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Dorai-Large-Bath-Stone-fc7769c3de984bb8a3823039b44b18c1.jpg)
Dorai
Great choice for large areas or awkward spaces
Available in two different color choices
Streamlined and clean design
Pricey
Lacks the antislip design that many other mats feature
If you have a large or uniquely laid out space that you want to cover, the Dorai Large Bath Stone is the customizable solution you need. This bath mat is over double the size of many others on our list, allowing it to cover a similar amount of space to a bath rug. Even better, it can be laid out in a variety of different configurations, since it’s actually four individual stones. Lay it out in a traditional rectangle shape, or lay the tiles side by side to make a slim, long layout. Alternatively, you could also lay it out in an L-shape or separate the tiles to cover two different areas altogether, making this the most customizable choice on the list.
Unlike many other stone bath mats that can be cold on your bare feet, this one is constructed from a durable ceramic material that absorbs and stays at room temperature. These tiles are also some of the fastest-drying stones on the market and feel smooth and comfortable on the feet. However, because they lack an antislip pattern, they are less grippy than other mats. This option is also quite pricey compared with some other options.
Price at time of publish: $195
Dimensions: 31.6 x 22.3 x 0.6 inches | Weight: Not listed | Colors: Slate or Sandstone
Best Set
FanWayer Diatomaceous Earth 6-Piece Bath Mat Set
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Fanwayer-Diatomaceous-Earth-6-Piece-Set-c68e499524a1423992037b47a275edb3.jpg)
Amazon
Get an entire set for the cost of one of the competition’s mats
Multifunctional uses
Feels soft and forgiving on bare feet
Only available in one color choice
Bath mat is slightly smaller compared with others on the list
The Fanwayer Diatomaceous Earth 6-Piece Set is ideal if you’re looking for a complementary set of stone accessories that match well and blend in with a lot of different decor choices. This set includes two bath mats and four coasters/stone soap mats. It’s great for adding a luxurious touch to the bathroom, but you can also use it in the kitchen or living room, giving you plenty of options for multipurpose use around the home.
One of the best things about this comprehensive set of stone mats is its price tag. You get the 6-piece set for the same amount that most singular stone bath mats sell for. The drawback? It’s only available in one color choice. The bath mats themselves are also slightly smaller than most others on the list; not much smaller, but still…
Price at time of publish: $50
Dimensions: 23.6 x 15.3 inches | Weight: Entire set weighs 13.07 pounds | Colors: Grey
Best Design
Lofter Stone Bath Mat
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Lofter-Stone-Bath-Mat-34a66fe354bc4bdc821ef13e2c90f1e5.jpg)
Amazon
Visually appealing look and appearance
Excellent grip for wet feet
Affordable price point
Light color mat tends to show stains easily
Patterning tends to chip when used on uneven surfaces
The Lofter Stone Bath Mat features a tasteful and elegant design that provides optimal traction for wet feet and fully absorbs water in seconds, making it a safe and beautiful addition to any bathroom or entryway. Available in two color choices, this is a durable all-natural alternative to damp and bacteria-laden cloth mats that will blend well with a variety of different color schemes.
It can tend to warp somewhat on initial use, but that can be remedied by leaving the mat upside down on a flat surface for a while. The patterning on this particular mat helps give your wet feet extra traction, but if you place the mat on an uneven surface, it can chip or deteriorate over time, so it may not be the best option for outdoor patios with uneven stone or brickwork. Also, the lighter color choice shows stains more easily and will require more frequent cleaning.
Price at time of publish: $43
Dimensions: 23.7 x 15.5 x 1 inches | Weight: 5.39 pounds | Colors: Grey, Dark Grey
Best Anti-Slip
Brightly Terra Stone Bath Mat
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Brightly-Terra-Stone-Bath-Mat-49b9f761709b4d69ab8c4b3ede372e77.jpg)
Brightly
Chic, minimalistic design
Excellent traction
Dark stains are easily removed
Only available in one color and pattern choice
A little pricier than comparable options
The Brightly Terra Stone Bath Mat features a distinctive pattern that allows for maximum traction for wet feet. The chic, minimalistic design adds understated elegance to your bathroom, doorway, or patio. This is also an excellent choice if you’re looking for an ultra-absorbent and quick-drying dish mat. Made from 100 percent diatomaceous earth, this mat is an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic or cloth mats.
The non-slip backing ensures that this stone mat stays where you put it and doesn’t shift around, scratching wood floors or damaging tile or linoleum. Since this mat is such a light color, it blends well with trendy, white marble bathrooms. However, it can also stain more easily than other choices, but it’s safe to use hydrogen peroxide or even bleach on this model, so cleaning is a breeze. Unfortunately, it’s only available in one color and pattern choice, but at least you won’t waste time agonizing over which one to get. While this is still a well-priced option, it is a little more expensive than many other choices on the market.
Price at time of publish: $50
Dimensions: 23.6 x 15.3 x 0.35 inches | Weight: Not listed | Colors: White
If you’re looking for a high-quality, multifunctional, ultra-absorbent stone bath mat that can do double duty in your bathroom, laundry room, or entryway, our top pick overall is the Mondano Stone Bath Mat. It’s also offered at a reasonable price point. For a budget-friendly, low-profile, streamlined, and flexible stone bath mat, the CozyNook Diatomaceous Earth Bath Mat is tough to beat.
What to Look for in a Stone Bath Mat
Size
Stone bath mats typically come in one or two standardized sizes. The most common size is approximately 23-24 inches long and 15-16 inches wide. When purchasing your stone bath mat, ideally, you would look for one that best fits the area in front of your tub, shower, hot tub, door, etc. Some companies sell larger diatomaceous earth mats, like the Momo Lifestyle Drytomita Grande Bath Mat, which measures 32 x 20 inches. Others can be sold in sets that allow you to configure them in a more customizable order, like the Dorai Large Bath Stone, which is sold as a connecting set of 4 mats.
Another thing to consider is the thickness of your mat. Most range between 0.3-0.6 inches, while some may be up to 1 inch thick. The CozyNook Diatomaceous Earth Bath Mat features a super low profile of 0.16 inches, which is ideal for doors with very little clearance.
Material
Stone bath mats are primarily made from a substance known as diatomaceous earth, which is a fine powder made from the sedimentary rock called diatomite. This powdery rock substance is not only super porous, but it’s also highly absorbent, quick-drying, and durable, making it an ideal material for mats you can use in the bathroom, patio, entryway, or even as dish drying mats in your kitchen.
Many stone mats are made from 100 percent diatomaceous earth, while others use a combination of that, other stones, such as granite, and a binder substance, like recycled paper or wood shavings. This can affect the absorbency and weight of the mat, so be sure to check what your mat is constructed from prior to purchase if that’s a concern for you.
Design and Color
As you might expect, stone bath mats are typically left in their all-natural color state, so you’ll find them ranging in colors from white to dark grey. These muted tones give a modern, spa-like feel to any room, and tend to blend inconspicuously with a variety of decor styles and color schemes, from traditional to modern, boho-style bathrooms, and more.
Stone mats may also feature fun, swirly designs built into them that help to add traction and increase their anti-slip properties. However, some users complain that these designs can be tough on bare feet, so if you have sensitive soles, consider a mat that’s free of any embellishments and is strictly made from smooth, soothing stone. Be careful though, as these mats tend to be slightly less “grippy” than ones that are patterned.
Care and Maintenance
One of the biggest selling points of stone bath mats, aside from their quick-drying and absorbent nature, is the fact they are super easy to clean and ultra-low-maintenance. Because they dry so fast, they don’t trap bacteria like typical cloth bath mats do. And, because they’re made of stone, you cannot machine wash them, so you simply hose them off when they’re dirty. Gone are the hassles of constantly having to wash your bathroom rug.
For stubborn stains, using a fine grit sandpaper is recommended for renewing the surface. For deeper and more difficult stains, you can usually use hydrogen peroxide, and in some cases, bleach to penetrate deeper into the stone itself.
Being constructed from stone, diatomaceous earth bath mats are also very durable and should last for years with little to no care or maintenance needed.
-
Do stone bath mats work?
If you’re looking for a bath mat that provides traction, absorbs lots of water, and dries super quickly with little to no bacteria buildup, then yes, stone bath mats work wonderfully. In fact, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a bath mat that absorbs more water and dries faster than a diatomaceous earth bath mat.
-
How do you clean a stone bath mat?
Cleaning your stone bath mat is simple and easy:
- For initial, first time use, simply spray excess powder off your mat and wipe it down with a wet cloth to remove any powdered residue.
- For regular cleaning, rinse the surface of your mat with running water or a wet cloth every couple of weeks. Do not soak it or fully submerge it in water, it’s not necessary.
- Set your mat in an area that is well-ventilated or gets lots of sunlight to help it dry quickly.
- For stains or dulling, gently scour the surface of your mat with a fine grit sandpaper. Most mats come with their own sandpaper included in your purchase.
- For stubborn or deep stains, you can usually use hydrogen peroxide to penetrate the stone and help clean your mat more thoroughly. Check your manufacturer’s recommendations prior to using anything more caustic, like bleach.
-
Are stone bath mats antimicrobial?
Diatomaceous earth is antimicrobial, and as such, stone bath mats definitely trap far fewer bacteria than traditional cloth bath mats. Because stone is a less hospitable environment and because it dries so quickly, it is a far better alternative than cloth if you’re concerned about bacterial growth.
-
How long do stone bath mats last?
A: Since it’s made from stone, it’s possible that a stone bath mat could last you a lifetime. That said, over time, things like dead skin, dust, and pet dander can accumulate and begin to block the pores of the stone, making it less effective. So be sure to scrub your mat occasionally using a brush or sandpaper to keep it renewed and fully functional.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written by Lisa Conant, a freelance writer with experience writing about home and automotive topics. For this piece, she relied on her own personal expertise and the personal experiences of friends and colleagues. She poured over dozens of product reviews from online sources and independent consumers, putting high-quality construction, functionality, design styles, versatility, and pricepoint at the top of the list. For additional insight, she spoke with Cindy Tadie, residential designer at Kathy Adams Furniture & Design in Dallas, Texas.