Hello again everyone and welcome back into the neighborhood, today we are going to be covering indoor doormats. We'll cover everything from why you need one to the best materials to look for. But before we get into the nitty-gritty of this 15-minute read, if you’re curious and want a more in-depth overview of doormats, check out our article here: Doormats 101: The Complete Guide on Everything Doormats

So, indoor doormats. They might seem a bit odd at first—do you really need one? What materials should you consider? How are they different from outdoor doormats? My friends, these burning questions will be answered right here. Let’s jump in!

What is the difference between indoor and outdoor doormats?

When choosing between indoor and outdoor doormats, it's important to recognize that they serve different purposes and excel in their own ways. Each one tackles unique challenges to keep your home unique and stylish.

When thinking about outdoor doormats you think of heavy-duty dirt scrapers made from rough materials designed to last. Whereas indoor doormats you think softer, better looking, etc and that is what they are. The best indoor doormats are made from softer materials like cotton, microfiber, and synthetic fibers, which are gentle on your floors and excellent at absorbing moisture.

So now you know a basic overview of the difference let’s get into it…

 

Indoor doormats: The Importance and Benefits of Indoor doormats.

Should you have a indoor doormat?

Yes. Ideally, you want two doormats: one outside to catch mud and dirt and another inside to catch moisture and anything the first doormat may have missed.

The great thing about an indoor doormat is that it not only protects your floors and keeps your area clean but also serves as a decor piece. People often wonder how they can enhance their entryway’s appearance—adding plants, a shoe rack, etc.—but then overlook the importance of a stylish doormat. Incorporating a well-chosen indoor doormat into the design of your home or porch makes a big difference.

 

Should you put a doormat inside?

Absolutely! Here is why:

Firstly, an indoor doormat provides extra dirt and moisture control. Even if you have an outdoor mat doing most of the heavy lifting, an indoor mat acts as a second line of defense. It catches any remaining dirt and moisture, ensuring your floors stay cleaner and drier. This is especially important in preventing slips and falls on hard surfaces like tiles or hardwood.

Secondly, indoor doormats protect your floors from scratches and wear. Dirt and grit can cause damage over time, and an indoor mat helps to prevent this by trapping those particles before they can reach your floors. This is a simple yet effective way to preserve the look and longevity of your flooring, whether it’s hardwood, laminate, or carpet.

Lastly, an indoor doormat adds to your home decor. it’s a small but impactful piece that can tie your entryway together. With a wide range of colors, patterns, and designs available, you can choose an indoor mat that complements your style and makes your entrance more inviting.

 

The 2-Way Mat Magic: Why do people layer doormats?

Husbands Listen Up! 

The last thing you want is to track mud, dirt, and water all over your pristine floors. This is where the 2-way mat system works its magic. The concept is simple: one mat outside to catch the dirt and another one inside to catch the moisture.

The primary reason people use a 2-way mat system is to maximize the cleanliness and protection of their home. The outdoor mat tackles the bulk of the dirt and debris, scraping it off your shoes before you step inside. For more information on the best types of outdoor doormats, check out our article Doormats 101: The Complete Guide on Everything Doormat.

Once you step inside, the indoor mat takes over. This mat's job is to catch any remaining dirt and, most importantly, absorb moisture. This two-step process significantly reduces the amount of grime and water that makes it past your front door, keeping your floors cleaner and safer.

We all have a type even your front door does…

You have got to admit it, some doormats look good some don’t so what is your type?

Let’s go through the options available on the market today:

Cotton Doormats:

If you have been searching for indoor door mats UK then you need an absorbent doormat (because it rains a lot), if this is you, cotton might be on your list.

Cotton doormats are highly absorbent, making them excellent at soaking up moisture from wet footprints. They are soft and gentle on flooring, providing a comfortable surface to step on. Additionally, they are easy to clean—most cotton mats can be tossed into the washing machine for a quick refresh.

 

Microfiber Doormats;

For the more up-market customers, these mats have a little reputation as luxury simply because of the comfort they have.

They are also incredibly effective at trapping moisture and fine dirt particles, keeping your floors dry and clean plus they dry quickly, reducing the risk of mold and mildew, and often come with a non-slip backing to ensure they stay in place.

Synthetic Fiber Doormats:

A rising star in the mat word.

Synthetic fibers like nylon, polyester, and PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) are tough and long-lasting, able to withstand heavy foot traffic. These mats are resistant to stains and can handle wear and tear without showing signs of damage. They are also excellent at wicking away moisture, and keeping your floors dry.
WaterHog Mats are most popular for customers looking for functionality and style so if that sounds like you take a look: WaterHog® All Weather Doormats

 

Coir Doormats:

Coconut doormat! That is a reason to buy one right there. How cool!

Moving on, it's naturally sourced so big winner but its biggest selling point is the rustic charm it brings to your home.

There are some downsides though, it sheds so they don’t last long from new, so looking good is temporary and they are rough making them a great choice for outside but inside not so much.

 

Size Matters and Where You Put It Also Matters!

So we all know you can get large indoor door mats and extra large entrance mats for outside, the question is how big is too big?

How big should a Indoor doormat be?

When it comes to indoor doormats, size matters. Ideally, an indoor doormat should be at least as wide as your door, or a few inches wider. For a standard single door, a mat around 24 x 36 inches works well. For larger entryways or double doors, consider mats that are 36 x 60 inches or bigger.

Indoor doormat: Where to place a indoor doormat?

Straight after the door: Place the indoor doormat right after the door to catch any remaining dirt and moisture that the outdoor mat might have missed. Ideally, the mat should extend far enough inside that someone can take at least two steps on it before stepping onto the main flooring. 

In the Porch: If you have a porch, placing a doormat here can add an extra layer of protection. This secondary mat can be slightly smaller, around 18 x 30 inches, as it primarily serves to catch any additional debris and moisture.

Do dormats go indoors or outdoors?

It depends on the type of mat you buy. For example, WaterHog mats are made from PET materials designed for all-weather usage, making them perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. On the other hand, coir mats are not ideal for indoors due to their shedding and rough texture.

So, for versatile use both inside and outside your home, we recommend WaterHog PET doormats. They handle dirt, moisture, and all types of weather, ensuring your home stays clean and stylish.

The Process of Choosing.

Now that we know doormats can go both indoors and outdoors, let's walk through the process of choosing the perfect indoor doormat for your home. This little walk-through will help you consider all the important factors to make sure you pick the right one.

 

Consider What You Need It For:

First, think about the primary function of your indoor doormat. Do you need it to catch dirt, absorb moisture, or both? If your main goal is to keep your floors clean from dirt, a doormat with strong dirt-trapping capabilities is essential. If preventing wet footprints is your priority, then an absorbent mat is what you need for example.

Assess Your Living Conditions:

Where you live plays a big role in determining the best indoor doormat. For instance, if you live in a rainy or snowy area, you'll need a mat that excels at absorbing moisture and drying quickly, like a microfiber or WaterHog mat. Conversely, if you're in a drier climate, dirt trapping might be your main concern, which coir and WaterHog mats can handle well.

Decide on Your Setup:

Do you want a single mat or a 2-way entrance system with mats both inside and outside? A 2-way setup is highly effective for maximum cleanliness. The outdoor mat tackles the heavy dirt, while the indoor mat catches any remaining debris and moisture. For this system, we recommend using a durable, weather-resistant mat like a WaterHog outside and a softer, absorbent mat inside.

 

Style and Decor:

Your doormat isn’t just about functionality—it’s also a piece of decor. If style is important to you, look for mats that come in various colors and patterns to match your home’s aesthetic. Cotton and synthetic fiber mats often offer a wide range of design options, allowing you to find something that enhances your entryway’s look.

 

How do I choose a indoor doormat? The Five Steps:

1. Identify Your Needs: Determine whether you need the mat to trap dirt, absorb moisture, or both.
2. Consider Climate: Assess your local weather conditions and choose a material that can handle the typical environment.
3. Plan Your Setup: Decide if you want a single mat or a 2-way system with both indoor and outdoor mats.
4. Focus on Style: Choose a mat that complements your home decor with the right colors and patterns.
5. Check Dimensions: Ensure the mat is the right size for your entryway, allowing for at least two steps on the mat for effective cleaning.

What is the best indoor doormat?

Now this is subjective and no we are not biased because we genuinely like to deliver world-class products to our customers so here is the best Indoor doormat on the market today:

WaterHog Mats are incredibly durable, made from PET (the same stuff used in plastic bottles) they are tough enough to handle excessive use and not show signs of wear and tear.

Its ability to trap dirt and moisture is a reason to buy in its own right. Thanks to its unique design with deep grooves and a bi-level surface, it catches dirt and water effectively, and the nonslip backing keeps it on the ground and you still standing.

Style-wise, WaterHog mats come in a variety of colors and patterns which is unusual for doormats, I mean to find a good-looking one!

So if this sounds at all interesting to you the least you can do is take a quick look here:  WaterHog® All Weather Doormats

 Time to close out.

So we hope that we have aired the confusion out the window and that all of you are well-informed on indoor doormats. Dont forget if you want a more in-depth overview of doormats then read our article here: Doormats 101: The Complete Guide on Everything Doormat.

And remember, whether you need an indoor mat, an outdoor mat, or both, the key is to choose one that fits your home’s needs and style. With options like WaterHog doormats, you can’t go wrong—they combine durability, functionality, and aesthetics to keep your home clean and welcoming.

Thank you for joining us on this journey through the world of indoor doormats. Keep your entryway stylish and dirt-free, and we’ll see you around the neighborhood!