Coir is one of the most popular types of entrance matting on the market in the UK. Its popularity is mainly due to its low cost, its natural-looking appearance and its scraping and wiping properties.
However, one of the biggest cons of coir matting is the amount that it can shed and wear, which can leave the surrounding floors looking untidy. Shedding can be a minor inconvenience, but with the right preventive measures, you can ensure your coir mat stays intact and retains its beauty for a long time.
Click on the link to see our full article on the pros and cons of coir matting.
We have put together a few ideas on how you can help to prevent your coir mat from shedding, to give it the longest possible lifetime and help to outweigh some of the cons of using coir as entrance matting.
It is important to note that some shedding is always normal with any coir matting, particularly in the first 2 weeks of purchase and use.
Luxury/commercial grade coir
Coir matting has different ‘grades’. The higher the grade of coir, the more tightly packed together the bristles are, meaning that the amount of shedding is decreased. You should therefore look out for ‘commercial grade’ or ‘heavy duty’ coir when looking to purchase low-shedding coir matting.
Budget grade coir will be much more prone to shedding and is generally chosen when the cost is the main concern.
Invest in our high-quality coir mat designed to withstand heavy foot traffic - Coir Matting.
Install coir into a well/recess
If coir is installed into a recess, it is much less likely to shed heavily onto the surrounding floors than if the mat is loose laid. This is because the edges of the mat will be encased inside the recess, so bristles will only shed on the walking surface of the matting, instead of the edges too!
The matting height should fit flush with the height of the well/recess for the least possible shedding and also to avoid trip hazards.
Shake or Vacuum Regularly
Simply take the mat outside and give it a good shake to dislodge any loose particles. Alternatively, use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently suction away debris, particularly in the first couple of weeks, to prevent any loose bristles from being tracked from the surface of the matting onto the surrounding floors and carpets.
Trim Loose Fibers
If you notice any loose fibres protruding from the surface of the coir mat, gently trim them with a pair of scissors. Be careful not to cut too deep into the mat; focus on removing only the loose fibres to maintain their appearance without causing damage.
Limit Exposure to Moisture
Excessive moisture can weaken the coir fibres and lead to shedding. Place the coir mat in a covered or sheltered area to protect it from prolonged exposure to rain or direct sunlight. If the mat becomes wet due to a spill or rain, allow it to dry completely before resuming regular use.
Avoid Heavy Scrubbing
While coir mats are resilient, aggressive scrubbing with a stiff brush or abrasive cleaning tools can damage the fibers and promote shedding. Instead, opt for gentle cleaning methods such as blotting spills with a cloth or using a soft brush to remove surface dirt.
Use Mat in a Low-Moisture Area
Coir mats are best suited for low-moisture areas. Placing them indoors or in covered entryways will help minimize exposure to excessive moisture, thus reducing the likelihood of shedding
Rotate the mat
To ensure even wear and distribute foot traffic, consider rotating the coir mat occasionally. This helps prevent excessive wear or specific areas, which can lead to shedding.
Conclusion
By following these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce shedding and prolong the lifespan of your coir mat. Remember to choose a high-quality mat, perform regular maintenance, and protect it from excessive moisture. With proper care, your coir mat will continue to make a stylish and durable addition to your home for years to come.
What to do next?
Here at Mats4U we sell superior commercial-grade coir which has minimum shedding after the first 2 weeks of installation. It is available in a variety of different depths so that it can be installed effectively into a well/recess.
You can view our Supercoir Heavy Duty Coir Coconut Roll Matting on our website, or contact us for more information at 0121 313 6748 or sales@mats4u.co.uk
