Function and style have merged in rugs made for the bathroom

Shaggy throw rugs used to be a mainstay on bathroom floors, but no more. Today's floor coverings for the bath have more in common with carpeting found in other parts of the house.

"Any number of retailers are selling bath rugs bursting with personality, ready to stand alone in an ordinary bathroom or, in most cases, available as part of an accessory ensemble," according to HGTV. "Keep in mind, too, that a washable bathroom rug is a great way to disguise less-than-desirable linoleum or tile without ripping up floors."

Function is particularly important because of the humidity and water spills that occur in a bathroom. Handmade rugs don't usually do well there because the moisture can cause rotting in the construction or cause the yarns to become brittle. Manufactured rugs designed specifically for wet environments stand up much better in bathrooms.

Rugs can be matched in color or pattern to window coverings, such as pleated shades that stack tightly when raised to let in light, but can be adjusted to any length for privacy. Blinds Chalet has pleated shades in light-filtering and room darkening styles for both windows and skylights.