Shower and bath mats are usually made from synthetic plastics and rubbers for tub-style mats (examples: PVC, vinyl, TPR, and 100% rubber) and from textiles for floor bath rugs (commonly 100% cotton).
Some tub mats include perforations, drain holes, or woven/embossed details that let water drain away quickly. Certain cushioned safety mats specifically note drain holes to help limit moisture buildup and reduce the risk of mold or mildew.
Cotton tufted bath rugs are generally machine washable and safe to tumble dry. Molded PVC, vinyl, rubber and TPR tub mats typically recommend spot or wipe cleaning. A few safety-style plastic mats list hand wash as the care method.
Product descriptions and customer reviews frequently report strong suction and effective non-slip performance for tub-style mats, with many users describing secure footing when the mat is properly applied.
Some cotton bath rugs list OEKO-TEX certifications, commonly including STANDARD 100 and MADE IN GREEN labels, often shown alongside their certification numbers.
Some reviewers report an initial plastic or rubber odor and occasional discoloration or yellowing over time, while others note little or no strong smell. Overall, reports on odors and long-term discoloration are mixed.