Our Intro to Let You Know: We're All About Floor Mats
Well, hello there friend and welcome to The Neighborhood, our series of guides and resources about all things doormats and floor coverings! So, a few things to give you a little comfort in what you’re reading and the information we’re providing. Although the Matterly story is still young, our history is deeply rooted in matting; like 6 decades deep. We’re not some fly-by-night operation or a private equity group that’s just a marketing front for an overseas importer. From where we sit, as we type out this article, there are thousands of floor mats being made every day. Rubber is being made, fibers are being extruded, foam is being cured, and it’s all assembled right here in America.
The Unsung Heroes of Home Décor: Why Floor Mats Matter
Imagine a world without floor mats. Muddy footprints across your living room, splashes of water staining your hardwood floors, and endless hours spent scrubbing stubborn dirt off your carpets. Luckily, we don’t live in that world! Interior floor mats and accent rugs are the unsung heroes of our homes, tirelessly working to keep our spaces clean, safe, and stylish. They are so much more than foot-wipers; they’re decorative workhorses that elevate your home’s aesthetic while safeguarding your floors. So, let’s roll out the red carpet for these everyday essentials and dive into their versatile world—from their functional benefits to their fashionable flair.
Floor mats aren’t just there to be stepped on; they’re there to set the stage. Whether it’s that soft bathroom mat that cushions your feet after a shower or the sturdy entryway mat that says “No shoes past this point,” mats are the silent, stylish guardians of your floors. Beyond their practical uses, they’re design elements that can define spaces, add pops of color, and make any room feel complete.
Enhancing Your Home’s Aesthetic with Decorative Accent Mats
Forget bland and boring — indoor accent mats are the underdog décor elements that pack a punch! With so many styles, colors, and patterns to choose from, mats are one of the easiest and most affordable ways to refresh your space. Think of them as the accessories of your home: just as a statement necklace can transform an outfit, the right mat can change the whole vibe of a room.
Patterns and Colors
Interior floor mats for the home come in every imaginable shade, from soft neutrals that blend into your décor to bold prints that demand attention. Want to jazz up a dull hallway? Go for a vivid, geometric runner. Need a touch of whimsy in the kitchen? Try a mat with quirky patterns or inspirational quotes. Floor mats are an opportunity to experiment with color and texture without the commitment of painting a wall or buying new furniture.
Texture Play
Texture is key when it comes to creating a cozy, layered look. The feel of a quality floor mat—whether it’s the shaggy softness of a bathroom rug or the rough and rustic texture of a indoor doormat—adds dimension to your space. These tactile elements draw people in, inviting them to kick off their shoes and stay awhile.
The Functional Benefits of Accent Mats & Rugs: More Than Just a Pretty Face
Sure, decorative floor mats look great, but they’re not just there for show. They’re multitaskers that work behind the scenes to keep your home running smoothly. Think of them as your home’s personal assistants, taking on dirt, water, and wear so you don’t have to.
Dirt and Moisture Control
Safety and Comfort
Floor Protection
Pet Centric for Paws
Building off the floor protection, as much as we love our pets they can be especially difficult on our floors. So whether it's scratches from dog paws or the occasional accident before they make it out the door, a quality accent mat placed strategically can work wonders for health of your floors.
Types of Floor Mats: Finding the Right Fit for Every Space
Floor mats aren’t one-size-fits-all, and that’s the beauty of it! There’s a perfect mat for every corner of your home, each with its unique set of talents. Let’s explore some of the most popular types of decorative floor mats and discover how they can work their magic in your space.
Entryway Mats: First Line of Defense
Think of your entryway mat as your home’s bouncer, keeping the dirt out and setting the tone for what’s inside. These mats are designed to handle heavy traffic and tough weather conditions, making them essential for any front or back door.
Low-Profile Floor Mats
With their slim, sleek design, these mats fit snugly under doors without causing a fuss, proving that good things do come in small packages. But don’t let their subtle appearance fool you—they’re crafted to trap dirt, dust, and moisture like pros, keeping your floors clean and dry. Perfect for high-traffic areas, low-profile doormats blend seamlessly into your space, letting the rest of your décor shine while they quietly do all the heavy lifting!
Rubber Backed Mats 
Rubber backed floor mats are the heavy-duty workhorses of the mat world. Built to withstand rain, snow, and mud, they’re easy to clean—just give them a quick hose down, and they’re as good as new. Their slip-resistant properties make them a safe choice for outdoor use, where wet conditions are often unavoidable. They’re the strong, silent type that always gets the job done.
Synthetic Fiber Mats
These versatile mats offer a blend of scraping and absorbing power, trapping dirt and moisture all in one go. Available in countless designs, synthetic fiber mats add curb appeal to your entrance while keeping your floors spotless. They’re great for adding a touch of style to your doorstep without compromising on practicality.
Kitchen Mats: Comfort Meets Functionality
The kitchen is the beating heart of the home, and it deserves a mat that can keep up with all the cooking, chopping, and dishwashing. Kitchen mats aren’t just there to protect your floors—they’re there to protect you, too, offering comfort and support where you need it most.
Anti-Fatigue Mats 
Ever find yourself avoiding meal prep because you just don’t want to stand at the counter? Anti-fatigue mats are a lifesaver for those long kitchen sessions, providing cushioned support that reduces strain on your feet, legs, and back. Whether you’re baking a cake or tackling a sink full of dishes, these mats make standing more comfortable. It’s like having a soft landing spot for your feet during your culinary adventures.
Stain-Resistant Mats
Let’s face it—kitchens are messy places. From spaghetti sauce to splattered oil, your kitchen floor sees it all. Stain-resistant mats are made from easy-to-clean materials like vinyl, so when the inevitable spills happen, a quick wipe is all it takes to keep them looking fresh. These mats are perfect for the accidental chef who tends to get a little too enthusiastic with the whisk.
Designs that Delight
Who says kitchen mats have to be boring? With so many fun patterns and colors to choose from, you can pick a mat that not only serves its purpose but also adds a bit of personality to your cooking space. Go for a vintage-inspired design, a foodie-themed print, or a sleek, modern style—whatever tickles your taste buds!
Bathroom Mats: Safety, Comfort, and Style
Step out of the shower and onto pure bliss with the right bathroom mat. These mats are designed to handle water, steam, and all the splashes that come with your daily routine, all while adding a touch of spa-like luxury to your bathroom.
Standing Comfort Mats
Like we discussed above, comfort isn't just for the kitchen! These super-soft mats cradle your feet as you step out of the bath, providing a safe landing. They’re available in a range of chic colors and patterns that elevate your bathroom’s look. It’s like getting a mini foot massage every time you step out of the shower.
Rubber Backed Bath Mats
The bathroom can be a slippery slope—literally. High-traction floor mats with rubber backing keep your feet firmly planted, helping reduce the risk of accidents. Textured surfaces add extra grip, making them a smart choice for households with kids or elderly family members. No more frantic windmill arms trying to stay upright!
Mildew-Resistant Mats
Bathrooms are breeding grounds for mold and mildew, but the right mat can keep those nasty invaders at bay. Look for quick-drying materials like closed-cell fibers or treated fabrics that resist moisture buildup, keeping your bathroom cleaner and fresher. It’s like having a built-in defense system against those pesky bathroom invaders.
Doormats as a Bath Mat???
Yeah, you heard us right. Quality doormats can make awesome bathroom mats. Doormats made with rubber-backing and closed cell fibers like recycled polyester or polypropylene are great examples due to how well they hold up to moisture. And like we mentioned above, rubber backed mats are great at providing traction in the bathroom.
Hallway Mats & Runners: The Long Path to Elegance
Hallways are more than just passageways—they’re opportunities to make a statement. A stylish hallway runner can turn an ordinary hallway into a stunning corridor, adding warmth, color, and a sense of flow to your home.
Low-Pile Runners
Perfect for high-traffic areas, low-pile runners are durable, easy to clean, and won’t trip you up. They’re especially great for families with pets or kids, as they hold up well under constant foot (and paw) traffic. They’re the ultimate multitaskers, blending durability with design in one sleek package.
Larger Sizes and Designs
Hallway runners aren’t a one-size-fits-all affair. Many retailers offer larger or even custom lengths (we're working on it!), so you can find a runner that perfectly suits your space. Go bold with an eye-catching pattern, or keep it classic with a subtle, sophisticated design. Custom runners allow you to put a personal stamp on your space that says, “Yes, I have style, even in my hallway.”
Vintage Vibes or Modern Marvels
From vintage-inspired florals to sleek geometric prints, hallway runners come in all styles. Choose one that complements your home’s aesthetic and watch as it transforms your hallway from drab to fab. Your hallway will go from “Oh, that’s nice” to “Wow, where’d you get that?”
Bedroom Accent Mats & Runners: Cozy Comfort for Restful Spaces
Your bedroom is your personal oasis, and the right floor mat can make it even more inviting. Bedroom mats aren’t just decorative—they provide soft, comforting surfaces for your feet to land on first thing in the morning, adding a touch of luxury to your daily routine.
Plush Rugs
There’s nothing better than the feel of a plush, fluffy rug underfoot as you get out of bed. These mats add warmth and texture to your bedroom, making it feel cozy and inviting. Opt for shaggy, high-pile rugs if you’re all about that soft, sink-in feel. They’re like wrapping your feet in a cozy blanket first thing in the morning.
Area Rugs for Definition
In larger bedrooms, area rugs can help define specific spaces, such as the area around your bed or a cozy reading nook. Choose colors and patterns that complement your bedding and furniture, creating a harmonious, pulled-together look. It’s like drawing a soft, invisible boundary around your personal space, making everything feel a little more special.
Runners Beside the Bed
Runners aren’t just for hallways! Placing accent mats and runners on either side of your bed adds a touch of elegance and practicality, protecting your floors from wear while keeping your feet warm on chilly mornings. Plus, they create a soft landing pad for your feet, making those early wake-ups a bit more bearable.
Laundry Room Mats: Functional and Protective
Laundry rooms may be the workhorses of the home, but that doesn’t mean they have to look drab. A good mat can protect your floors from spills and splashes while adding a bit of style to your washing and folding space.
Water-Resistant Mats
Laundry rooms are all about water, so it’s crucial to choose mats that can stand up to splashes and drips. Water-resistant mats made from rubber or vinyl are easy to clean and provide a barrier between your floors and potential damage. These mats are like having a personal assistant who’s always ready to mop up after you.
Cushioned Mats for Comfort
Sorting, folding, and ironing can be tough on your feet and back. Add a cushioned mat to your laundry room to make these tasks a bit more comfortable. Anti-fatigue mats are ideal, offering support that helps reduce strain. Think of them as your laundry day BFFs, always there to support you, literally.
Playful Prints
Laundry isn’t exactly the most exciting chore, but a fun mat can add a little personality to the space. Look for mats with cheeky slogans, bright colors, or playful patterns to make your laundry room feel a little more lively. It’s like having a little dose of fun in the one room where fun usually goes to die.
How to Choose the Perfect Floor Mat for Your Space
Selecting the right floor mat is about more than just picking something pretty. You’ve got to consider functionality, material, size, and safety features to ensure it meets the needs of your space. Here’s a breakdown to help you make the best choice.
Define the Mat’s Purpose
Match Your Décor
Mats should complement your space, not clash with it. Consider your room’s color scheme and style—whether it’s modern, bohemian, rustic, or minimalist—and choose a mat that enhances the overall aesthetic. Remember, mats are a great way to add a pop of color or pattern without overwhelming the space.
Consider the Material
The material of your mat determines not only its look but also its functionality. Natural fibers like jute or coir are great for scrubbing dirt but may not be ideal for wet areas. Synthetic materials like polypropylene are versatile, durable, and often water-resistant, making them perfect for high-traffic spaces.
Get the Size Right
Size matters! A mat that’s too small can look lost in your space, while a mat that’s too large might overpower it. Measure the area where you plan to place the mat and choose one that fits comfortably, allowing enough room for doors to open and close without obstruction.
Prioritize Safety Features
Safety is key, especially in wet or high-traffic areas. Look for mats with non-slip backings to prevent slips and falls, and consider cushioned options if you’ll be standing on the mat for extended periods. The right safety features can keep your home both stylish and secure.
How Lighting Affects Mat Colors: Bright Ideas for Better Choices
Lighting is a sneaky little trickster when it comes to how colors look in your home. A mat that looks perfect under store lights might seem completely different once you get it home. Here’s how to make sure your mat looks great no matter where you place it.
- Natural Light vs. Artificial Light: Natural light enhances colors, making them appear more vibrant and true. But under artificial light, like soft white or LED bulbs, colors can shift dramatically. Warm lighting can make colors feel richer, while cool lighting can give them a crisp, blue-toned appearance. Test your mat in different lighting to see how it reacts and make sure it fits the room’s vibe.
- The Magic of Shadows: Shadows can play tricks on how colors appear, especially with patterned mats. Spotlights, floor lamps, or even overhead lighting can create highlights and lowlights that change the mat’s appearance. Position your lighting to highlight the best parts of your mat—whether it’s a bold pattern or a soft texture.
- Color Temperature Matters: The temperature of your light source can affect color perception. Warmer lights bring out the red and yellow tones in mats, making them feel cozy and inviting. Cooler lights bring out blues and greens, enhancing a fresh, modern feel. Knowing how your lighting interacts with your mat’s color can help you achieve the perfect look.
Caring for Your Mats: Maintenance Tips for Longevity
To keep your mats looking fresh and fabulous, a little TLC goes a long way. Regular cleaning and proper care can extend the life of your mats and keep them performing their best.
Regular Cleaning
Dirt, dust, and debris are no friends of your mats. Shake out loose particles, vacuum regularly, and follow the care instructions on washable mats. Keeping your mats clean will ensure they remain both beautiful and functional.
Spot Clean Stains Immediately
Accidents happen—coffee spills, muddy footprints, and the occasional pet mishap. Spot clean stains as soon as they occur to prevent them from setting. Use a mild cleaner suited to the mat’s material, and blot gently rather than scrubbing to avoid damaging the fibers.
Rotate to Even Out Wear
Rotating your mats every few months helps distribute wear evenly, especially in high-traffic areas. This simple habit can extend the life of your mats and keep them looking fresh for longer.
Inspect for Wear and Tear
Regularly check your mats for signs of wear, like frayed edges or faded colors. When mats start to look tired, it’s time for a refresh. Don’t wait until they’re completely worn out—keeping them in good shape enhances both the look and safety of your space. Depending on the type accent mat or rug, you'll want to regularly check the backing and surface, and if it won't lay flat it's likely time to replace.
Conclusion: Embrace the Versatility of Floor Mats
Floor mats are the unsung heroes of home décor, tirelessly working to keep your space clean, safe, and stylish. Whether it’s a chic kitchen mat that makes cooking more enjoyable or a bold entryway mat that welcomes guests with flair, there’s a mat for every room and every need. So, next time you’re shopping for home décor, don’t forget about the floor mats—they’re the real MVPs of your home, blending function and fashion in the most delightful way.