When you’re looking for an entry mat for your business, there are a wide range of options to consider. In the past, choices were rather limited, with generic mats or plain industrial-style mats being the norm. However, the modern market has a wide range of styles, colors and designs to fit a wide variety of uses. These choices can be overwhelming to business owners who want to make the best impression for customers and visitors.

This introductory entry mat guide goes over several different options to take into consideration before purchasing entrance mats. We also have recommendations for high-quality mats to fit certain situations. With the assistance of the experts at Ultimate Mats, you’ll be able to find a mat or rug that lays out an appropriate welcome.

General Entrance Mat Considerations

The following are general questions you should take into consideration before purchasing entrance mats. Once you have the answers to these concerns for your business, you’ll be better prepared to purchase mats that fit your needs and uses.

Style, Size and Shape

Entry mats are available in a wide range of styles, sizes, shapes and designs. These cover a wide variety of fabric patterns. Some people stick to the basics and use a classic square pattern. Others use a more striking diamond pattern on their mats. Waves, ovals and patterns that mimic window glass designs are other choices that add high-end fashion for upscale businesses and organizations.

Shape and size is another area you have to consider. If a mat is too small or large, it won’t be as effective. Shapes cover the traditional rectangular mats, ovals and half-ovals. The style you choose should not only be the correct size but also one that fits with your business’s visual design and decorative themes. Sizes can vary greatly, from small mats for a single doorway to large mats and runner rugs for businesses that have several adjacent doors to manage heavy foot traffic.

Lastly, you’ll want to consider other practical design options such as rubber edges and rubber backings which help protect against moisture. You’ll definitely want a non-skid mat that won’t slide out from underfoot. Beveled edges are often a good safety measure to reduce tripping incidents.

A Way to Make a Good First Impression

A stylish entrance mat can be a very effective part of your business marketing plan. An entrance mat immediately draws the eyes of visitors as most people look down as they wipe their feet. When looking at a high-quality entrance mat, visitors get a first impression of your business. The overall style of the mat can tie into the overall decoration theme of your business setting the overall tone of their visit. Plus, an entrance mat shows you care about the safety of your customers and you practice a high level of professionalism.

Logo mats are another way to make a lasting impression on anyone who enters. A well-placed logo serves as an easy visual reminder of your brand name and also gives your visitors a visual means of association. These cost a little extra up front, but can easily make that back and then some in brand awareness.

Water/Moisture and Safety Concerns

 One of the key challenges you’ll face when selecting entrance mats is how they’ll fit in with your environment. Every business is different, and what your mats are exposed to may vary greatly from business to business. If your entrance lacks cover, then your mats will be exposed to greater amounts of sunlight and rain. In this situation, you’ll want to consider a mat that’s water- and UV-resistant. You’ll also want one that’s not prone to mold or rotting.

This isn’t just a matter of appearance — it’s also a safety concern. A mat not designed to handle rain or snow is unsafe and can cause your visitors to trip or fall. In colder locations, ice often develops, which can be very hazardous. Above all, you want to keep your visitors safe, which prevents injuries and associated legal ramifications. If a visitor is injured, not only could there be legal issues, but this could also heavily damage your reputation in the community.

WaterHog Mats

Now that we’ve gone over some of the basics for buying entry mats, we want to highlight one of the brands that meets many of these needs. WaterHog mats are some of the most popular entrance mats in the market today. Here is a brief overview which helps explain their popularity and why they are so well regarded in the industry.

What is a WaterHog Mat?

WaterHog mats have become a very popular brand name for entrance mats and are widely available for purchase. They are known for their durability, toughness and ease of cleaning. They bring the strength of an industrial mat together with modern and aesthetically pleasing designs.

Why WaterHog Mats?

When it comes to entrance mats, you’re going to want something that lasts and something that is safe. Many businesses place their entrance mats outdoors and in direct contact with weather elements. Unless your entrance is covered or protected from the weather, you’re going to need a tough mat that can handle rain, snow and sunlight. WaterHog mats are specially designed to be rugged and to handle these elements.

Features and Benefits

WaterHog mats offer many benefits to their buyers. Their main selling point is their resistance to water. Their rubber edges help keep water and dirt safely contained on the mat itself. If it’s a particularly wet day, you don’t have to worry about water, mud and snow being tracked in by visitors. WaterHog mats can absorb a large amount of water — up to 1.5 gallons of liquid per square yard!

WaterHog mats are also highly versatile. You can use them both indoors and out. Cleated backings are available for mats used on carpets and the smooth backing is ideal for outdoor mats and hard indoor surfaces. The backing is made with up to 20% recycled rubber so the mats are more eco-friendly. Lastly, WaterHog mats are available in a wide variety of designs. They make basic interior welcome mats, outdoor fashion mats, elegant grand ballroom mats and everything in-between.

Maintenance and Cleaning

WaterHog mats are surprisingly easy to clean and require tools you likely already have for carpet cleaning. Simple debris is easily removed by shaking the mat out and running it over with a vacuum. For light soiling, the mat should be sprayed down with a water hose and hung until dry. Heavier soiling may require more heavy-duty treatment, such as a wet/dry vacuum, followed by hanging until dry. Dirt can also be removed with a pressure washer and hang drying as needed.

Entry Mats for Your Business

As you can see, entry mats are an important part of any business. They not only serve the basic function of letting your visitors wipe their feet, but also serve to increase safety, promote cleanliness, impart professionalism and market your brand. WaterHog mats, in particular, help with moisture and are a rugged and dependable choice with a wide range of options to fit any business. When selecting an entrance mat, WaterHog mats from Ultimate Mats come highly recommended. Shop now for an assortment entry mats at the best prices with free shipping in the lower 48 states.