Oct 12 , 2018
1-Hour Project: How to Build a Cedar Bath Mat
Some planning and building tips to know:
- I chose cedar for its looks and rot-resistance, but any wood would be fine.
- My mat is 14-1/2 x 30 in., but you can make yours any size. Just be sure the slats are supported by runners no more than 15 in. apart.
- Large knots create weak spots, so you may need to buy extra lumber to get sections that are free of knots.
- Although the nail holes won’t show, I patched them with wood filler before sanding and finishing. Left exposed, the nail heads may rust and stain the floor.
- I finished my mat with tung oil. Oil finishes aren’t as durable as some others, but they’re easy to renew when the finish starts to wear—just wipe on a fresh coat.
- Be sure to apply anti-skid pads on the bottom to keep the mat from sliding on hard floors.
Cut the Slats
If your local home center doesn’t have good-quality 1×2 stock for the slats, buy a 1×6 and cut 1-1/2-in. strips. An 8-ft. 1×6 provided all the slats I needed. Learn how to rip boards on a table saw safely here.
