How to Buy Fieldcrest Bath Rugs

Choose a Fieldcrest bath rug by size. Leaving at least 3 feet of space between the bathroom rug and each wall results in a proportioned look -- neither too small nor too overwhelming. This rule of thumb means you should be able to open and close bathroom doors without resorting to shifting the rug around. Fieldcrest bath rugs come in standard sizes, as small as 21 inches and as large as 58 inches for huge spaces.

Pick a Fieldcrest rug color. Light colors make bathrooms look big, clean, spacious and roomy. Dark colors close space in, but they also make a bathroom feel cozy and intimate. Fieldcrest bath rugs offer a wide variety of colors, from Teardrop Blue to Pigeon Gray to Cool Waterfall. Don't forget the issue of dirt and grime. You're going to wash light-colored bath rugs more often than darker ones, but if you have pets, plan to spend an equal amount of time removing hair or dander from dark rugs. When in doubt, opt for neutral in the Fieldcrest line, such as Brown Linen, New Wheat or Taupe Dusk. If pets aren't a problem, go for Drama Red and Chocolate or be brave and choose a Fieldcrest white.

Select a shape. If you expect to place more than one rug on the floor, you can go for uniformity or keep the shapes diverse. Fieldcrest makes a wide variety of contour bath rugs cut to fit at the base of the commode. Some have rounded edges, while others are squared. If your commode rug stands in stark contrast to the shape you've chosen to place in front of your sink, things could look out of balance -- unless you're going for a quirky look. Your taste and design sense will help you make the best choice, whether you want a round, oval or rectangular rug.

Choose a material. Most Fieldcrest bath rugs are machine-made from tufted nylon. A select number of styles are made of Egyptian cotton and must be washed and dried carefully to avoid shrinkage. Most have latex backing. Deep pile vs. a compact or dense weave is a matter of personal choice. A nice, thick weave feels good on bare feet, but if you live in a damp area, your bath rug may not dry out completely between showers or baths, promoting mildew growth. When in doubt, choose low pile and nylon for fast drying and a surface over which your bathroom door will glide effortlessly.

Find out how much you will pay for your Fieldcrest rug. "Big box" stores and large retailers will have lower prices than specialty shops and boutiques. Even better deals may be found online. A tour of several outlets in mid-2009 found Fieldcrest bath rugs ranging from $9 to $40. Look for extras like skid-resistant material at a slightly extra charge -- particularly if you're shopping for a senior or someone with disabilities.