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Although you may just think of a doormat as a functional fix to wipe your shoes clean before heading inside or a way to prevent slips in wet weather, there's more to it than that — your doormat can create a lasting impression on your guests. "As your guests enter through the front door, your doormat is likely the first thing they'll notice," says Good Housekeeping Associate Lifestyle Editor Alyssa Gautieri. "First impressions matter."
At the Good Housekeeping Institute, we evaluate all kinds of home products in our Textiles Lab to help you elevate your indoor and outdoor spaces including washable rugs, outdoor rugs, bathmats and, of course, doormats. Our analysts have tested more than 15 doormats in the past for style, durability and performance properties. We recently reviewed this testing data and researched new doormats from brands that are popular online or have performed well in past testing. Plus, we partnered with GH's home design editors for input on standout styles.
Keep reading to learn all about how we choose the best doormats and for helpful shopping tips. Looking for more ways to spruce up your outdoor space? Check out our list of the best outdoor furniture picks and our top backyard decorating ideas for some inspiration.
From afar, this doormat from Chilewich might look like a traditional striped rug, but it's actually made with tufted loops of vinyl yarn and a solid vinyl backing. The material is able to resist regular wear and tear and is perfect for a high-traffic area like right outside your front door. Plus, the yarn loops are stiff to really help clear your shoes of gunk before you step inside. Leftover dirt and debris are easily concealed by the texture of the loops, and it's a breeze to clean. The brand recommends simply shaking the mat or vacuuming to clean and rinsing with a hose.
When we evaluated this doormat in the Textiles Lab, we were impressed by the quality construction, and reviewers rave that the durable mats are able to withstand years of use. Some online reviewers say the coloring of the doormats appears different in person than it does online, but you're able to return your mat within 30 days if you're unhappy with it.
Dimensions: Four options | Material: Vinyl
For under $20, this classic doormat from StyleWell is a total steal. The polyethylene woven mat features a subtle black border that's actually grooved to clean your shoes. Because the doormat is flat without tufted pile, mud and debris will appear more noticeable on the surface, but the mat is easy to clean and can be vacuumed or swept and rinsed with water.
When we checked out this doormat in our Lab, we were impressed by the quality construction available for such an affordable price, but some online reviewers share that they've experienced fraying at the edges of the mat after long-term use.
Dimensions: 18" x 30" and 30" x 47" | Material: Polyethylene upper and rubber backing
With a 4.5-star average rating and over 23,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, this doormat from Gorilla Grip has been dubbed the "best doormat ever" by more than one user. A polypropylene upper is designed with deep grooves to trap moisture and debris and really get the grime out of your shoes, but the pile is soft enough that you can comfortably step on it barefoot. The brand claims the patterned upper is fade-resistant, and there are plenty of pattern options to choose from including simple geometrics, natural motifs and welcoming words in bold and neutral colors.
We're impressed by the textured rubber backing that's gripped for added security and by the sleek beveled trim. Some online reviewers say the edges of the rubber backing curl and recommend folding the mat in the opposite direction of the curling to try and flatten it out.
Dimensions: Five options | Material: Polypropylene upper and rubber backing
Waterhog doormats like this one from L.L.Bean are built to last. We appreciate the thoughtful construction including an abrasive polyester upper to wipe feet clean and a textured rubber backing to keep the mat securely in place. A raised border helps prevent water from soaking through to the floor below. When the mat gets dirty, the brand recommends sweeping away any debris and rinsing it down with a hose. L.L.Bean shares that the design is crush-resistant, meaning the tufted pile will retain its shape even after being trampled on.
If you're not a fan of the sunrise look, the brand carries over 40 variations including pet-friendly designs, outdoorsy options and geometric styles in tons of different colors, shapes and sizes. Some reviewers say the mat takes a while to flatten out, with a few experiencing curled edges and ripples weeks after removing the mat from its packaging. L.L.Bean does offer returns within one year of purchase if your mat just won't lie flat.
Dimensions: 23" x 35" and 35" x 59" | Material: Polyester upper and rubber backing
To really elevate the look of your front doorstep, Frontgate offers an elegant assortment of monogrammed doormats. The traditional serif font and vine motif lend a luxurious feel, and the doormat is hand-hooked with polyester and acrylic yarns that appear similar to a standard indoor rug. There is no non-slip backing, so Frontgate recommends using one of its rug pads to ensure the doormat stays in place.
The brand claims that the doormat is weather resistant, so it should be able to withstand the elements year-round. It's also UV treated to prevent the color from fading, but some reviewers have noticed the color dulls with time and use.
Dimensions: Three options | Material: Polyester and acrylic
This vintage-style tile mat from Letterfolk is completely customizable. The tiles are actually removable rubber pieces that are interchangeable and can be rearranged to create endless looks. It's ideal for someone who's willing to put in a little extra effort to achieve the style they want.
The stylish doormat is capable of removing dry debris and dirt from your shoes, but wet muddy messes may be harder to scrape off, and they can leave the mat feeling slick. It is a breeze to clean, though, since the rubber tiles aren't absorbent and can be hosed down and wiped dry. And because it's made with heavyweight textured rubber, the doormat is less likely to slide around on your front doorstep.
Dimensions: Three options | Material: Rubber
Made with coir, a fiber derived from the husks of coconuts, this traditional doormat is great for someone looking for a more natural pick. In our evaluations, we've found that natural coir mats are more susceptible to shedding, which can leave a mess on your front doorstep. However, the abrasive fibers proved to be great at removing caked-on dirt and debris from the bottom of shoes. The fibers also have a loftier profile than some of the other featured doormats, which is helpful when it comes to concealing dirt.
It's backed with a thin coating of rubber to keep the fibers in place and to prevent slippage. Some online reviewers love the simple design, while others opt to use this doormat for craft projects, customizing the coir with painted sayings and artwork.
Dimensions: 17.5" x 30" | Material: Coir upper with rubber backing
Home Editor Monique Valeris loves this style of doormat for wet and rainy weather because it's both functional and fashionable. She and Textiles Lab analysts appreciate the open structure, which allows rain to drain through. The thick grooved pattern is also ideal for scraping mud and gunk from rain boots and shoes. Plus, Valeris says the openwork design "makes a statement."
Do know that in our evaluations, rubber doormats with this open structure were more likely to form composites of ice during cold weather, and the design means dirt and debris will fall straight through to the flooring below. Because it's so heavy and made entirely of rubber, the doormat should stay in place without slipping and sliding around during use.
Dimensions: 24" x 48" | Material: Rubber
Ruggable's machine washable rugs are stylish, high quality and easy to care for. The brand's indoor and outdoor rugs and bath mats have all performed well in our evaluations, receiving top marks in Lab and consumer tests. One tester raved, "I live in an apartment building, so people are constantly walking over my doormat on the way to their apartments, and it has stayed in great shape." She added, "Even after wiping my shoes on the mat every day for the past year, the design is still in amazing condition."
The two-part rug system includes a stylish printed upper that can be removed and laundered in the washing machine for a thorough cleaning. You can choose from more than 140 prints to coordinate with your personal style. The backing is a textured rubber mat that stays in place and is filled with small holes for water drainage. Know that it can be difficult to perfectly place the printed upper back on the mat after washing, and we've found it to be easier to apply with an extra set of hands.
Dimensions: 24" x 36" | Material: Polyester upper and rubber backing
For a pop of color and floral flare, try this printed pick from the Home Decor Collection at Walmart. Not only is it super stylish and fun, but it's also a great value. It's made with natural coir fibers, which are abrasive to help scrape muddy gunk from the bottoms of your shoes so your indoor flooring stays spotless.
In our tests, coir doormats were more likely to shed than their synthetic counterparts, so you may experience some loose fibers. Dirt and debris are easy to conceal, though, as they fall deep into the fibrous doormat instead of just sitting on the surface. And the doormat is backed with a thin layer of rubber to prevent slipping. If pink isn't your color, our Home Team is also a fan of this multi-colored floral design.
Sure to help your entryway stand out, this arched doormat with fringed detailing is a favorite of Associate Lifestyle Editor Alyssa Gautieri who loves its unique look. The 100% coir doormat is completely natural and made with braided yarns comprised of fibers from coconut husks. The abrasive, stiff coir fibers are ideal for cleaning grime from your shoes before you head indoors, and the braided design helps to conceal dirt.
In past Textiles Lab tests, coir mats have taken longer to dry than synthetic styles, and the natural fiber could potentially be damaged from extended exposure to wet weather, so the brand recommends placing it in a covered area. If you prefer a slightly more traditional style instead of the arched look, our Home Team also loves this knotted doormat from the brand.
Dimensions: 18" x 30" or 24" x 36" | Material: Coir
At the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, we test and review all kinds of home products including washable rugs, bath mats and outdoor rugs to help you find the best pieces to elevate your home — inside and out. Over the years, we've evaluated more than 15 doormats, testing them for UV and abrasion resistance, ease of cleaning, crocking (transfer of color from rubbing) and more. We recently reviewed our former testing data and researched dozens of doormats from brands that have performed well in similar product categories or that are popular and have great feedback from real users.
GH analysts also gave their recommendations for their favorite doormats that have stood the test of time. We partnered with our Senior Home Editor Monique Valeris and Associate Lifestyle Editor Alyssa Gautieri who shared their favorite stylish picks to spruce up your space. Plus, we checked out some new models in person, considering construction properties like the upper material and backing, as well as the overall design.
When you're choosing a doormat, here are a few things to consider:
✔️ Material: Not all materials are suitable for the outdoors, so it's important to first review the fiber content and fabric construction of the doormat. Many doormats are made from synthetic fibers including polyester and vinyl, which are durable and easy to care for. They're more likely to resist stains and damage from the elements like wet weather or powerful UV rays. Other doormats use coir, a natural fiber type that comes from the husks of coconuts. It's an abrasive fiber that's helpful for cleaning grime off of your shoes, but it's more susceptible to shedding and water damage.
Most doormats have some sort of "non-slip" or textured backing material to help them stay put. The backing is often made with either natural or synthetic rubber with a textured design for added grip and security.
✔️ Style: Associate Lifestyle Editor Alyssa Gautieri recommends finding a doormat that "reflects your home style, whether you stick with a simple pattern, natural design or maximalist print." Gautieri adds, "Your doormat is a great place to have fun and inject personality into your outdoor space." She recommends switching out your doormat as the seasons change, suggesting that you "personalize your doormat with your last name, tell a funny joke or show off your favorite colors."
✔️ Size: Doormats come in all shapes and sizes, but standard doormats are typically 24" x 36" because most doors are approximately 36" wide. A good rule of thumb is to choose a doormat that's the same width as your door to ensure you and your guests have plenty of room to wipe their feet. If you have double doors or sliding doors, it's best to pick a wider mat or place two standard mats side-by-side. For smaller spaces, there are 18" x 30" mats, or you can choose an arched mat for a bit of flare.
✔️ Care: Doormats are put through the wringer and are constantly exposed to dirt and debris. To maintain the longevity of your doormat and to help ensure your indoor space stays clean, it's a good idea to regularly clean your mat. Be sure to review the care instructions recommended by the brand before buying. Some styles can be swept or vacuumed to remove excess debris, and most doormats can be rinsed clean with a hose and spot-treated. There are some machine washable options with covers that can be removed and laundered for even easier cleaning.
Amanda Constantine joined the Good Housekeeping Institute in 2022 as a home and apparel reviews analyst, testing dozens of home products including bedding, curtains and towels. She has also conducted testing for and written about outdoor rugs and bathmats. For this article, Amanda used her relative expertise when researching and evaluating doormats, and she worked with Senior Home Editor Monique Valeris and Associate Lifestyle Editor Alyssa Gautieri who provided stylish and practical picks from popular brands.
Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.
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