Considering dimensions when laying down the coir doormat might seem irrelevant, yet it is critical in-home décor. Coir Door Mats are made from the natural husk of coconuts and, as such, are very durable and eco-friendly. Furthermore, because of their exceptional scraping qualities, coir mats keep moisture and dirt out of your house. Like all products, coir mats have some advantages and downsides, so choosing the right size is crucial.
Measuring the Doorway
Measuring the door is the first and most important step in selecting the ideal coir mat.
Here are some steps you can follow:
- Using a tape measure, measure the width of the door and any double doors, if applicable.
- Measure the space available in front of the door both inside and outside.
- Measure the walls, nearby furniture, and steps to check if they obstruct the door or not.
As a rule of thumb, the width of the mat should never be more than the width of the door and should absolutely be equal to no less than seventy-five percent of the door’s width. For instance, a 36-inch-wide door should have a 30-inch-wide coir mat.
Prioritize Function Over Style (But Don’t Forget About Fashion)
Your mat should fit your space decoratively, but the primary purpose is to trap dirt and absorb moisture. If a door mat is too small, it will not be effective; if it is too big, it might be too decorative or get in the way.
This is How Size Impacts Effectiveness
Smaller Mats: Most likely will not capture all the grime off both feet, which is especially problematic in rainy or muddy areas.
Larger Mats: Permit longer wiping areas, which is favorable for busy entryways and bigger households.
As mentioned before, coir mats come in many styles, from classic monogrammed designs to fun phrases and even plain minimalist styles. Pay attention that the design works with the chosen mat size so that it neither looks cramped nor is overly spacious.
Entry Type: Single vs. Double Door
This is another consideration that might impact your purchase decision:
Single-door entrances usually accommodate standard-sized Coir Mats like 18” x 30” or 24” x 36”. Best suited for smaller households or entryways with limited room.
Double Door Entrances: Require larger mats such as 36” x 60” or even custom-sized ones to seamlessly fit across both doors. A disproportionately small mat with a large doorway does not offer adequate coverage to trap dirt effectively. For grand entrances or commercial spaces, a large or runner-style mat does not only improve the aesthetics but also guarantees that people can take multiple steps across it, maximally removing dirt. Consider custom-cut a coir mat that may be made to exact specifications if your entryway is too large.
Think About Placement: Indoors, Outdoors, or Both
The size of your coir mat is drastically dependent on where you place it.
Outdoor Use
For outdoor placement, larger mats are appropriate for scraping mud, leaves, and grime off a person’s feet before entering the house. Coir mats outdoors should provide sufficient space to wipe both feet without stepping off the mat.
Indoor Placement
Indoor mats can be slightly smaller and more decorative than coir mats, which have a vinyl or rubber backing to shield floorboards from moisture. Be sure the mat does not obstruct the door swing when the door is opened or closed.
Check Door Clearance and Thickness
Coir mats are known for their thick, textured pile. Be sure to measure the shag mat’s height in relation to the door’s height.
Account for Foot Traffic and Usage
Mats that are longer, wider, and more durable are more useful in places with lots of foot traffic. If your entrance experiences heavy foot traffic (kids or pets), a mat that is at least the width of the door and provides 2-3 steps worth of wiping space is perfect. Read This
When in Doubt, Go Bigger
When faced with conflicting options, choosing the wider option often yields better results. A mat that is too small will look awkward. It is beneficial to have a larger mat because it makes the entrance look purposeful and welcoming. Additionally, a larger mat is better at capturing moisture and debris.