Don’t blame a fussy housewife for inventing entrance mats! Ancient cultures were using these mats long before anyone in modern times. Egyptians learned early on that having a straw pile at the front door, the predecessor to our entrance mat, helped keep all that pesky sand at bay.
One of the most common styles that has lasted for about a century is a simple mat that says “welcome”. There are many variations to be found as well, including comical sayings and holidays wishes. In any case, an entrance mat needs to have one purpose ” to keep the house clean. If it doesn’t at least do that, it might as well be hanging up.
Certain geographical areas have some specific demands for their mats, especially in areas that have tough winters that include below freezing temperatures, and plenty of snow and ice thrown in for good measure. Just a few steps in this wintery conglomeration can pick up snow, ice, and some dirt and rock salt, none of which should be allowed to make its way onto a hardwood or carpeted floor, to say the least.
In some areas the mat has one purpose, and one only, and that’s to keep the huge ice and snow blocks where they belong - out front! These mats are thick, and must be able to withstand abuse. They are usually made of thick fibers that absorb well and attract dirt and pebbles so that they aren’t just scattered nearby
Choose heavy duty materials like bamboo, plant fibers, and even recycled rubber pieces. (Check out a company that uses old flip flops and turn them into really cool mats for inside and out!)
Whatever you buy, it needs to be strong, thick, and able to withstand the rigors of being water logged, frozen, filled with dirt, and washed with strong soaps. Even thinner mats for holidays and special occasions still need to be able to do their main job - keeping the house clean.
Think about your corporate branding from the moment a client steps into your building. Logo Mats can make a great first impression, but unbrandedEntrance Mats can also look professional and stylish.