What to Look for in Heavy-Duty Doormats

With so many options to choose from, it isn’t always easy to know which features you need in a doormat. No matter what style you prefer, make sure any heavy-duty mat you choose has these six qualities.

Materials

Before considering any other features, always check the material first. The best materials for outdoor mats include:

• Coir: A natural fiber made from coconuts, coir is a top choice for heavy-duty mats. Its rough texture allows it to remove dirt and debris from shoes, and coir’s excellent durability means it’s designed to last.
• Rubber: As a synthetic material, rubber is waterproof and remarkably easy to maintain and clean. Although it doesn’t have the natural dirt removal properties that coir has, rubber mats often work best in wet or muddy settings.
• Plastic: Another synthetic option, plastic door mats usually feature AstroTurf. These mats often work well for removing dirt and sand and tend to be straightforward to clean.

Backing

Because you place heavy-duty mats outside at the front or back door, it’s important to make sure they stay right where you put them. That’s why it’s critical to choose an appropriate backing for your doormats. Look for a heavy-duty mat with one of these backing options:

• Rubber-textured underside: The combination of non-slippery rubber material and a textured pattern make this backing a smart choice.
• Non-slip or anti-skid backing: Doormats that have non-slip or anti-skid undersides are designed to stay in place, even in severe weather or heavy foot traffic.

Pile

Should you choose a high- or low-pile mat for your front or back door? Both options have pros and cons.

• High pile: These mats tend to be ideal for removing dirt, but they can be more difficult to clean.
• Low pile: These mats are easy to clean but may not remove dirt from shoes quite as thoroughly.

Sizing

Many heavy-duty mats come in multiple sizes, so it’s important to choose the right option for your home. Naturally, a mat that’s too small won’t adequately welcome visitors or keep shoes clean. In contrast, a mat that’s too large may make your porch look off-balance or be overly difficult to maintain.

As a general rule, you should always choose a mat that’s at least 80% as wide as the door. If your entrance area includes double doors, factor both into your calculations. Although many mats come in standard depths, consider a larger mat if your porch area is particularly long.

Maintenance

You might not expect your outdoor mats to stay as clean as your indoor rugs. Yet any front door mat you choose should be durable and relatively easy to maintain. Look for products that are waterproof and that you can clean with a garden hose. Alternatively, choose a mat that you can brush or shake off to remove loose dirt and debris.

Design

Last but not least, be sure to choose a color or pattern that complements your home and outdoor space. Look for design elements like:

• Shape: Most doormats come in circular or rectangular shapes. Although rectangular is the most common option, circular mats can add a unique and welcoming touch.
• Color: From neutrals to bright shades, mats come in every color. Go with a bold color that stands out or opt for a neutral shade for a subtler look.
• Pattern: Outdoor mats can feature color- or texture-based patterns. Choose one that emphasizes the architectural elements or lines of your home.
• Message: Some front door mats also feature written messages. Opt for a “Welcome” message to greet visitors or go with your last initial to emphasize a sense of family.

Best Heavy-Duty Outdoor Mats

Now that you know what to look for in an outdoor mat, check out some of the best options for your front porch. From simple to sophisticated, these styles work well for any front or back entrance.

Heavy-Duty Coir Doormat

Whether you choose a plain version or one with a pattern, a heavy-duty coir mat can add a stylish touch to your home’s entrance. Because coir is ideal for brushing off dirty shoes and boots, this type of mat can also keep your home clean. Make sure any model you choose has a non-slip backing to ensure it stays in place on your porch.

Rubber Indoor/Outdoor Mat

Rubber indoor/outdoor mats come in a wide range of styles, from wrought iron designs to geometric textures. Choose one that matches your home’s style, and opt for a mat with a textured underside to prevent it from slipping. Be prepared to spray or brush this type of mat regularly to keep it looking sharp.

Welcome Front Door Mat

Invite visitors into your home in style with a doormat emblazoned with a “Welcome” message. From coir to rubber, you can find a welcome mat in any material you choose. Opt for a mat with a border design or pattern to add some extra flair to your home’s front door.

Coir Mat With Rubber Border

When you want the best of both worlds, go with a heavy-duty mat made of coir and rubber. These mats typically come with coir centers designed to keep shoes as clean as possible. Their rubber borders add color, pattern, and visual appeal.

Basic AstroTurf Mat

If you live near the coast, you’ll appreciate how easily AstroTurf mats remove sand from shoes. Make sure any AstroTurf doormat you purchase has a non-skid rubber backing to make it as easy as possible to use and maintain.

No matter what size, shape, or style you prefer, it’s easy to find the right doormat for your home. Keep these tips in mind as you browse and choose a stylish welcome mat that’s designed to last for years to come.