Not only are they the first line of defense in preventing dirt and debris from entering your home, but setting out a doormat is a nifty way to greet your guests and family with style and color before they even enter your home. You can purchase a welcome mat in many different materials, colors, shapes and designs, so it’s important to know what you need before you go shopping. Here are a few tips to help you select the perfect outdoor mats for your home:
What type of material is best for my doormat?
Naturally, you’ll want your welcome mat to be made of a heavy-duty material that wicks up dirt, mud and possibly even snow. Certain materials work better than others, depending on how you plan to use them, so here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
• Coir: This material is easily identifiable, thanks to its stiff, scratchy surface. It’s perfect for scraping off mud and dirt and can be easy to maintain, though the rough surface can cause animal fur and other light debris to get stuck. If you choose a coir doormat, look for one with a rubber backing to prevent it from slipping.
• Wood: Wood doormats feature a smoother surface that isn’t as useful for scraping off mud, but their durability and great looks make up for it. If you opt for a teak or wood welcome mat, you can always add a stand-alone scraper to complement it.
• Rubber: Highly durable and easy to clean, rubber welcome mats are a popular choice. Though they tend to be lacking in color options, they often feature elegant designs and patterns. It’s worth noting that extreme cold may cause your rubber doormat to crack, so it might be best to tuck it away during the winter.
• Natural fibers: Weather-resistant sea grass or coconut fibers are durable doormat materials that are perfect for high-traffic areas. Their rough surface also helps clean footwear, and they look great to boot.
What size welcome mat should I purchase?
There’s a perfect measurement based on your door width. Look for a doormat that covers at least three-quarters of your entryway so you can be sure it will catch as much dirt and debris as possible. A longer mat may also be a good choice, as it will provide more surface area for catching muck. Don’t forget to check the height of your mat. If your door catches on it when you open or close it, it may be best to move that welcome mat outside or trade it in for a shorter model.
What styles do doormats come in?
You can pretty much find any style of doormat under the sun. Monogrammed entrance mats can add a certain elegant appeal, while funny doormats will have your guests chuckling as they enter and leave. Coir mats come in a variety of colors and patterns, some even with quotations, greetings or quirky sayings. Rubber welcome mats can add artistic visual appeal with scrollwork, patterns and intricate designs. Whatever you choose, be sure it complements your personal preferences and the style of your home.
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