As the festive season approaches, many of us are eager to deck the halls and create a warm and inviting atmosphere in our homes. One often-overlooked detail that can significantly enhance your decor is the humble Christmas door mat.
A well-chosen door mat can be the perfect way to welcome guests and add a touch of festive cheer to your home’s entrance.
Here, the Christmas.co.uk team takes a closer look at the history of Christmas door mats, why they are a must-have, and where you can buy them.
History of Christmas door mats
The concept of door mats dates to ancient civilisations where they served a practical purpose of keeping homes clean.
Early door mats were made from natural materials like reeds, straw and animal hides.
During the medieval period in Europe, door mats became more decorative, reflecting the social status of the household.
In the 1940s, mats made with fabric and rubber began to appear, along with decorative patterns.
The tradition of using festive doormats, particularly during Christmas, has become increasingly popular in recent years.
These seasonal doormats come in a variety of styles, from traditional to contemporary, and can help to create a welcoming and festive first impression.
Why should people consider Christmas door mats?
Christmas door mats are more than just a decorative item; they serve several practical purposes:
- Welcoming guests: A festive door mat creates a warm and inviting entrance for guests
- Keeping floors clean: They help trap dirt and moisture, preventing it from being tracked into your home
- Enhancing decor: Christmas door mats complement other decorations, adding to the overall festive atmosphere
- Personal expression: They offer a way to showcase your personal style and holiday spirit.
Also, Christmas doormats are a relatively inexpensive way to add a festive touch to your home.
What are Christmas door mats made from?
Christmas doormats are typically made from durable materials such as coir – which is also known as coconut fibre – rubber or PVC.
Coir doormats are a popular choice as they are effective at scraping dirt and moisture from shoes. Rubber and PVC door mats are also popular options as they are weather-resistant and easy to clean.
When choosing a Christmas door mat, consider the following factors:
- Design: Choose a design that complements your home’s style, whether it’s traditional, modern, or quirky
- Size: Ensure the doormat is the right size for your doorway
- Colour: Select a colour that complements your existing Christmas decorations
- Material: Choose a material that is durable and easy to clean.
How are festive door mats used?
Christmas door mats are typically placed at the entrance of a home to welcome guests and keep dirt and moisture at bay.
They can be used both indoors and outdoors, depending on the material.
It’s worth noting that some people also use them in high-traffic areas like kitchens and hallways to add a festive touch throughout their home.
How expensive are Christmas door mats?
The cost of Christmas mats can vary widely based on the material, size, and design.
On average, you can expect to pay between £10 and £50 for a quality Christmas door mat.
Custom or personalised mats may cost more, but they offer a unique touch that can be worth the investment.
How to care for door mats
To ensure your door mat lasts for many seasons, follow these care tips:
- Regular cleaning: Shake out the mat regularly to remove dirt and debris. For coir mats, you can also use a stiff brush
- Spot cleaning: For stains, use a mild detergent and water. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the material
- Drying: Ensure the mat is thoroughly dry before placing it back at the entrance to prevent mould and mildew
- Storage: Store your Christmas door mat in a dry, cool place when not in use to prolong its lifespan.
You should also regularly sweep or vacuum your door mat to remove dirt and debris.
Top festive mats from UK retailers
Here are some of the best door mats available from UK retailers:
Buy Christmas door mats this year
We think that Christmas door mats are a simple yet effective way to add festive charm to your home.
They not only enhance your decorations but also serve practical purposes like keeping your floors clean and welcoming guests.
With a variety of materials, designs, and price points available, there’s a Christmas door mat for every home.
So, why not add one to your festive decorations this year and make your entrance truly merry and bright?
