If you're searching for effective ways to maintain the cleanliness of your floor, investing in doormats is a logical choice. As you explore the options available, you'll likely come across two main types: mats for indoor and outdoor use.
The extensive range of doormat choices can be overwhelming, leaving you uncertain about where to begin. To simplify the decision-making process, consider the intended location for the mat.
Categorizing doormats into indoor and outdoor variants is a straightforward approach. However, the answer to the question "Should a doormat be placed inside or outside?" While it may seem like a cheeky response, the truthful answer is a doormat can be used in both indoor and outdoor areas. In fact, it is beneficial to have a doormat positioned at both the indoor and outdoor entrances.
Let's delve into the reasons behind this recommendation.
Why do you need a doormat outside?
Having a doormat outside is crucial for several reasons. Outdoor doormats act as the first line of defence against wet and slippery floors, safeguarding your premises.
When people enter your workplace or home, it's difficult to determine what substances might be on the soles of their shoes. Instead of discovering this through cleaning efforts, outdoor mats effectively trap dirt and moisture right at the entrance.
The primary function of an outdoor doormat is to scrape shoes as individuals walk over it. In residential settings, people often take the time to wipe their feet in a doormat. However, in commercial buildings, this is less likely to occur. Consequently, commercial entrance mats are typically longer, with an industry standard of at least 8 steps. This length allows for the removal of dirt from shoes, even if individuals make minimal effort to clean their footwear.
Why do you need a doormat inside?
Having a doormat inside is essential for several reasons. Once you cross the threshold, indoor doormats play a critical role in the final drying process.
While outdoor doormats effectively remove larger debris, they can also stir up smaller particles. This is where the indoor doormats take over by capturing those finer particles and water droplets.
Indoor doormats need to be absorbent to ensure that your floor remains dry. It is crucial to select a mat with the appropriate absorbency level for your specific needs. In high-traffic areas, it's important to choose a mat that can handle significant volumes of water, such as a High Absorbent Reinforced Rubber Backed Mat.
If outdoor mats were absorbent, they would quickly become saturated and lose their effectiveness. Indoor doormats serve as the final step *quite literally) towards achieving a safer and cleaner floor.
I’ve already bought my doormat, should it go inside or outside?
If you already have a doormat but are unsure where to place it, the material of the mat is the key factor to consider. Absorbent surfaces like fabric and carpet are not suitable for outdoor use if they will be exposed to moisture. Waterproof materials like rubber, however, can be used outside.
If your mat is made of rubber and coir (coconut fibre), the water-reactive nature of coir can affect the entire mat, causing the rubber to warp. Therefore, mats with coir and rubber backing should not be used outside.
Aluminium mats should only be used indoors as they do not offer slip resistance. While aluminium is waterproof, it can create a slippery surface when water accumulates on it, making it unsafe for doorways.
Here is a breakdown of materials that work best for inside and outside use:
Inside doormats:
- Carpet-surfaced entrance mats
- Coir mats with rubber backing
- Aluminum scrapers
Outside doormats:
- Traditional coir mats
- Synthetic coir mats
- Rubber mats with holes
- Low-profile scrapers with elevated grippers
- Drainable PVC mats
Can some mats be used inside and outside?
It's worth noting that some mats can be used both inside and outside. If you need a mat that can be interchanged, look for a scraper mat that allows water to pass through while effectively trapping and holding dirt to keep the interior areas clean as well.
However, it's important to consider that mats used in areas they are not specifically designed for may lack the necessary treatment to withstand outdoor elements. Outdoor mats are typically treated with UV-resistant chemicals to prevent decay and discolouration.
Indoor mats may not be suitable for heavy rain or snow exposure. Coir is waterproof but expands when saturated, so coir mats backed with rubber or other waterproof materials should not be used outside.
If your outdoor area is covered and the doormat is unlikely to get wet, absorbent scraper mats can work well. Porches and awnings are examples of areas that may benefit from a mat that helps dry shoes despite not being completely dry themselves.
Inside mats and outside mats: what’s the difference?
The key difference between indoor and outdoor mats lies in their water-handling capabilities. Outdoor mats need to allow water to pass through, as they are likely to encounter higher volumes of moisture. Indoor mats, on the other hand, need to absorb smaller amounts of water reliably, as they are the final surface before feet make contact with the floor.
It is recommended to have both inside and outside doormats to effectively remove and trap dirt outside while also drying shoes before they reach your floor. The combination of indoor and outdoor mats ensures cleanliness and safety for your floors.
For more guidance on selecting the perfect entrance mat for your specific needs, refer to articles on designing a business entranceway. If you require further advice on products and applications, feel free to reach out to our team, who are always ready to assist you.
