Yes, You Can Put a Rug in a Bathroom Like Erin Napier – it Feels Layered, Cozy, and Nostalgic, But Beware of These Pitfalls Before Trying It

We've always admired Erin Napier's traditional style, both in her own home and the way she brings the nostalgic elements of vintage decor into her projects on screen. Recently, a particular feature of her bathroom caught our eye – an antique rug in place of a bathmat – and it brings such a wonderfully warm and layered look to the space.

Whilst bathrooms are often in danger of looking a little cold and clinical, the addition of warm tones and textures with a bathroom rug and natural materials, such as a wooden vanity and marble counter (like this one from Pottery Barn), gives Erin Napier's bathroom a distinctly inviting, and lived-in feel.

Putting a vintage rug in a bathroom may sound a little controversial, so I've asked the experts about the pros and cons, and rounded up a selection of washable and durable options from Ruggable's Verena Amber Rug, to a rug-style bathmat from Urban Outfitters, as well as some other decorative details inspired by Erin Napier's bathroom, below.

Editors' Picks: Rugs and Decor Inspired by Erin Napier's Traditional Bathroom

If you're wondering whether a rug is the right choice for a bathroom, Ashley Didier, Founder and Principal Designer at A Design Story, assures us: 'A rug can absolutely belong in a bathroom – and in the right setting it can transform the space from ordinary to extraordinary.'

They're an excellent way to combat that cold feeling, particularly when you have tiled flooring, and they can add softness and definition to a large, echoey space. 'Bathrooms are typically designed with durable, wet-rated materials, but that doesn’t mean they should feel sterile, explains Ashley. 'A thoughtfully chosen rug introduces texture, warmth, and an additional layer of personality.'

Erin Napier's beautiful vintage rug adds a sense of authenticity and homey feel to her traditional bathroom. 'Timeless styled bathrooms often lend themselves naturally to rugs, but I also love the juxtaposition of a vintage textile in a clean, contemporary bath,' adds Ashley.

However, there are a few things to be aware of if you place a rug in a bathroom. Primarily, how they will cope with the moisture. Marcos De Andrade, Founder and Owner of Green Planet Cleaning Services explains: 'I've cleaned enough bathrooms to know that the wrong rug in a wet environment turns into a mold magnet fast.' However, that's not to say that rugs in bathrooms can't work – you just have to choose the right one.

Marcos explains: 'For traditionally decorated bathrooms, a vintage-style or Persian rug adds a lot of character, but the key is choosing one made from materials that can handle moisture. Cotton and Turkish-style flat-weave rugs are great because you can toss them in the washing machine regularly. Wool works too since it naturally resists mildew, but it needs to dry properly between uses. Steer clear of thick shag or synthetic pile rugs in bathrooms as they trap moisture underneath and create the exact conditions for mold and bacteria thrive.'

Any rug that can be washed, just like a bathmat, is a good option, but you might also want to consider color. A lighter rug will show dirt far more readily than a dark or patterned one. 'From a practical standpoint, darker colors and busier patterns are more forgiving when it comes to showing water spots and everyday wear,' advises Marcos.

And, don't forget to consider safety, too, by adding a non-slip mat underneath. Whilst bathmats often have integrated non-slip, rugs don't, so will require the extra purchase. This can also help with hygiene, too. 'The most important thing is having a non-slip pad underneath – not just for safety, but it also allows air to circulate under the rug so moisture doesn't get trapped against the floor,' explains Marcos. Finally, he warns against rug cleaning mistakes: 'whatever rug you choose, commit to washing it every week or two. A bathroom rug that doesn't get laundered regularly defeats the purpose of having a clean, well-maintained bathroom.'

If Erin Napier's bathroom rug idea has inspired you to try rugs elsewhere in your home, make sure you get clued up on how to choose a rug, before you buy.

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