Bathe Like a Queen

Today’s tip is from “Extra Splash In a Flash,” In Style Magazine, January 2009 (okay, okay, busted, I stole the magazine from our vacation rental over Spring Break but it was dated and I left a People Magazine in exchange!)

“Instead of ye old terry mat, go for the sheer bliss of setting foot on a deeply piled rug inspired by the Rug Company’s Alpaca (above). Try a plush sheepskin version [from West Elm].” The photo alone makes me melt into bliss (can I live there?). Sigh. Then, as an ever-practical Classic, I imagine what the rug would look like after I repeatedly walked over it in my shoes. This isn’t for Classics (instinctively I think, “How would I wash it regularly? Wouldn’t it just end up looking like a worn dish rag in a year?”). Plus my Classic husband would endless whine “When are we getting our terry cloth mat back??”But, I know exactly who should do this one.

Funs … you guys will keep it clean. I often find that Funs can have more ‘rules’ than Classics (and adhere to them) plus you really appreciate high quality (and what’s high quality about a terry mat?). You guys will take the time to ensure you always remove your shoes before entering the bathroom. But, Classics like me are mindful of the waste of time removing your shoes every time you enter the room would be (plus ensuring other people follow this rule). Frankly, anyone could do this idea if they adhere to the Asian culture of removing shoes when you enter your abode. I wish I could remember to do this. I think I need a Pavlovian zapper to remind me to take off my shoes when I walk in the door.

Organics you’ll be drawn to the luxuriousness of it and I could see Smarts digging it too. Who wouldn’t? You’d feel like the Queen of England every time you stepped out of the shower. It would take me a while before I realized that my lady in waiting in fact wasn’t there at the ready to hand me my towel. Organics and Smarts are big picture enough to realize that the rug will get worn and that’s okay. BUT, Organic Freedoms and Smart Freedoms this could be a short-term thing for you to do (it’s not going to become a dishrag but it’s not going to be as luxurious in a year’s time). So, I offer a cheaper idea below.

In Style’s photo is from The Rug Company and I’ve no idea how many zillions it must be since the West Elm alternative was $159-259 (also known as $160 and 260 … it’s my pet peeve when retailers try to make it seem $10’s cheaper than it is . But Ikea has sheepskin rugs for $40 ($39.99!!) Mind you, they’re in the shape of the actual sheep but you all know how to pull off avant garde. Buy two (perhaps put some non-slip tape underneath though) and never fret about their condition.

Originally published April 12, 2010