Everything You Need to Know About Coir Mats

When shopping for doormats, the rug’s design is a priority for most. Of course, you want the mat to match your home’s interior design, especially if you’re placing it on your front door.

However, that shouldn’t be your only consideration. It’s also important to consider the mat’s durability. You want a mat that can withstand constant foot traffic and can be washed a number of times without losing its original shape and colour. This way, your mat will last you a long time and give you your money’s worth.

One of the matting materials that are known for its durability is coir. Coir doormats are made from natural and biodegradable materials, making them a favourite among eco-conscious homeowners.

What is a coir doormat?

Coir is taken from the outer husks of coconut shells, which is why it has a light brown to golden-yellow colour. The fibres are removed and processed into a yarn-like strands, or coir.

The coconut husk fibres are incredibly durable, making them a fine choice for mats. Since the natural fibres are native to sub-tropical climates, they’re also highly resilient to water. Coir can get wet with fresh or saltwater and still maintain its integrity as a rug. It’s also resistant to mould and mildew, which are common problems for mats in moist areas, like the kitchen.

Another advantage of coir doormats is the material’s ability to resist fading. You can place them outdoors, on your front door and other areas that receive direct sunlight without worrying about the colour being bleached.

What are the other benefits of using coir doormats?

On top of their durability, coir doormats offer other advantages that make them convenient for day-to-day use. Here are some of them:

• Affordable: Coir doormats are cheaper compared to fabric and synthetic ones. With its longevity and affordability, a coir doormat will give you more value for your money.
• Versatile: Coir mats come in a range of colours and finishes. If you go for a natural finish, the mat may not be as resistant to colour fading. But it should be fine as long as you don’t place it in direct sunlight for long periods. There are plenty of colourful coir doormats available today, so you can find one that matches your taste. You can also buy a plain coir mat and add the design yourself using latex paint.
• Slip-proof: Coir has a scratchy texture that gives it a good grip. This helps prevent accidents, which are likely to happen in slippery areas like your kitchen, bathroom or outdoor surfaces. Coir doormats are also tough enough to scrape mud and water that make your shoes slippery.
• Easy-to-clean: Most coir mats have an open backing to allow water to drain. This lessens the amount of dirt that collects on your mat. But for stubborn stains and dried mud, you can easily clean your mat using a brush or dry powder cleaning agent.

How do you clean coir doormats?

Coir mats are low-maintenance, but we suggest shaking them out or vacuuming them once a week to keep dirt from settling in the fibres. Make sure to lift your mats whenever you’re sweeping or vacuuming the floor. This helps lessen the dirt that collects on your mat.

If your mat requires a more thorough cleaning, first scrape off the visible dirt and debris. You can use a stiff-bristle brush, broom or even steel wool for thicker mats. Another option would be to hang your mat on a clothesline and hit it with a stick.

If you want to be even more thorough, soak your mat in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes to loosen the dirt and debris. Then, brush it to clean off the remaining particles. For stubborn spots, you can use a gentle detergent or white vinegar, depending on what caused the stain. You can use detergent to remove most food stains.

Once your mat is clean, hang it out to airdry. If it was soaked in saltwater, rinse it with fresh water first to prevent discolouration.

Coir mats, when maintained properly, can serve you well for a decade. And when it’s finally worn out, you can compost your coir mat instead of throwing it out. To make your coir doormat will last years, purchase only high-quality one from a trusted seller.

Stylish, Long-Wearing Coir Mats

Buy functional yet stylish coir doormats online from Door Mat. We carry a wide range of mats, available in varying sizes, styles and textures to complement your taste and your home’s design. Our mats effectively scrape dirt from shoes, feel comfortable underfoot and can withstand heavy wear.

Visit our online store to check out or doormat selection. For enquiries, fill out our online form and we’ll get to back you promptly.