In this article, we are going to review the best entry mats for hardwood floors.
There is no doubt that entry mats are a must-have in every home.
They help protect the hardwood floor from scratches caused by people getting in and out of the house. Also, they add style to an otherwise empty space at the entrance.
Choosing a good entry mat that will stay in place on the hardwood floor without damaging it is usually a challenge. This is why we went ahead and found 7 entry mats that come highly recommended.
Here are our top 4 based on user experiences and reviews.
At A Glance – Best Entry Mats For Hardwood Floors
- Best Machine-washable Entry Mat: BEAU JARDIN floor mat
- Best Non-Slip Entry Mat: Delxo Magic Doormat doormat
- Best All-weather Entry Mat: Gorilla Grip Original rubber doormat
- Best Indoor Entry Mat: Aoonby Indoor Doormat
Why Use Entry Rugs For Hardwood Floors?
If you’re lucky enough to have hardwood flooring in your home, it’s essential to protect it from scratches, dirt, and excessive moisture.
Therefore, using an entry rug on hardwood flooring is crucial for the following reasons:
1. Keeps Your Floor Safe From Scratches
The entrance to your house has some of the highest foot traffic in the home, especially if you have pets. An entry mat ensures that the floor is protected from scratches from different types of footwear and pet claws.
2. Helps Reduce The Cost Of Repairs
Entry rugs help ensure you don’t spend much money restoring and repairing your hardwood floor by polishing it to remove scratches. The rug absorbs dirt and prevents it from getting scratched.
Best Entry Rugs For Hardwood Floors Comparison Table
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Hudson Exchange Waterhog Floor Mat |
| Check Price at Amazon |
 | Bungalow Flooring Waterhog Mat |
| Check Price at Amazon |
 | nuLOOM Moroccan Blythe Area Rug |
| Check Price at Amazon |
 | Color G Indoor Door Mat |
| Check Price at Amazon |
 | BEAU JARDIN Floor mats |
| Check Price at Amazon |
 | Delxo Magic Doormat |
| Check Price at Amazon |
 | Gorilla Grip doormat |
| Check Price at Amazon |
 | Aoonby Indoor Doormat |
| Check Price at Amazon |
 | Plow & Hearth Large Mud Rug |
| Check Price at Amazon |
Best Entry Mats For Hardwood Floors Reviews
1. BEAU JARDIN Floor Mats
This entry mat comes in different sizes so you can choose the one that is perfect for your entryway.
It is designed to absorb mud, water dust, slush, rain, sleet, grass, or snow, and anything else that feet or shoes can drag from outside.
For instance, it absorbs all the dust and wipes off the mud on your feet and shoes. Also, it scrapes off leaves and grass from your shoes with a lot of ease and doesn’t have a lousy smell after absorbing all this stuff.
When it’s snowing outside, this mat comes in handy because it absorbs snow from your shoes within seconds. Again, if you have pets in your house, you should not miss this mat, for it absorbs dirt or mud on their paws; thus, no pet footprints on the floor.
In order to stay on the floor, this mat has a rubber backing that does not stick on the floor but grips it firmly.
It is also a low profile so you don’t have to worry about the door glazing over it.
The BEAU JARDIN entry mat comes in seven different colors, so you should not worry about matching the theme of your house.
Most importantly, you can also choose to machine wash it or wash it by hand in cold water.
Pros
- High-quality fiber
- It is highly absorbent
- You can choose the color you want since it comes in different colors.
- Very easy to clean since it does not stain easily
- Long-lasting and durable
- Machine washable
- It is very soft and comfortable under the feet
Cons
- It sheds a lot during the first wash, which is normal for fiber mats
2. Delxo Magic Doormat That Absorbs Water
The exciting thing about the Delxo Magic Doormat is that it can be used as an entry mat as well as a pet litter mat, kitchen mat, or bathroom mat.
The mat is made of 55% cotton and 45% microfiber, thus it is super absorbent. These two materials are excellent in catching moisture and pet litter.
It’s a low-profile design with a thickness of 0.55 inches so it perfectly fits under the door.
Slipping should not worry you since it’s completely non-skid. Once you place the mat on the floor, it firmly grips the floor until you remove it.
In addition, it has a waterproof bottom, which protects the hardwood floor from water, sand, mud, or dust.
The mat comes in different sizes and colors so it’s up to you to choose the size that fits your needs.
Your kids are safe since the mat is eco-friendly and has no bad smell.
Pros
- Super absorbent
- Safe for your kids and pet
- Does not slip and low profile
- The fibers are large and soft
- Has different sizes and colors to choose from
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Maintains its fluffiness even after several months of use
Cons
- Tends to shed some lint during the first use, which is normal with fiber mats
- Not dryer safe
See also: Best chair mat for thick carpet
3. Gorilla Grip Original Rubber Doormat
The Gorilla grip is made of 100% natural rubber, which makes it very flexible and durable.
This doormat is super absorbent and traps moisture, mud, and other unwanted stuff like leaves and grass that shoes drag in from outside.
It has slightly raised polypropylene fabric that helps to trap dust within the grooves and other debris.
In addition, it is very easy to clean and dries pretty quickly in case it gets wet.
You do not have to wash. Simply shaking off the dirt or sweeping it with a broom or vacuuming eliminates the need to wash it. This minimizes the possibility of wear and tear due to frequent washing.
Alternatively, to deep clean, wipe the mat with a damp cloth and a mild soap, hose it down to rinse and then hang it outside to dry.
For the mat to lay flat and non-slip, it is advisable to first clean the floor before placing the mat.
The good thing about this mat is that it is easy to match your porch decor since it comes in four colors, several patterns, and designs.
Pros
- It’s durable
- The rubber backing grips the wood floor firmly; hence, does not slip
- Different colors to choose from.
- It dries quickly after washing.
- Best for indoors and outdoors.
- Very absorbent
- It does not have a strong rubber smell
Cons
- Not machine washable
See also: Do rug pads damage hardwood floors?
4. Indoor Doormat By Aoonby
This indoor doormat is made from a dense polypropylene fiber weave with different patterns and colors to match a variety of house décor.
It has a rubber backing that ensures the mat stays on the floor without moving, curling, or rolling at the corners. Also, it prevents dirt, water, and moisture from seeping and getting onto the wood floor.
In addition, the mat is also low profile so it will not get stuck under the door
Moreover, the mat is very absorbent. Thus, you don’t have to worry about the dampest of feet or paws since the doormat is capable of absorbing a lot of moisture.
When it comes to cleaning, simply vacuum or sweep it and use a garden hose to rinse it off. The mat can also be machine washed using cold water when it gets too dirty and air-dried.
Pros
- No slipping due to rubber bottom.
- The mat is very durable
- High absorption capacity
- Can be washed by machine
- Perfect for kids and pets
- It is low profile
- Feels soft and comfortable
Cons
- None so far
5. Plow & Hearth Large Mud Rug
Like any other mat on this list, Plow & Hearth mat will also help to absorb water, dirt, mud, and sand from your shoes and pet paws.
It is made from a blend of cotton, polyester, and rayon with a non-skid PVC backing. The backing keeps the mat in place as well as protects the hardwood floor from water and moisture.
This mat is a low-profile mat that is thin and very flexible so it perfectly fits under the door.
It’s easy to clean this rug since you can wash and dry it with a machine. It is recommended that you vacuum, wash, and dry it before first use so as to re-fluff it and increase its absorbency.
Pros
- It is super absorbent
- Has PVC backing; hence, it does not slip
- It is machine washable
- Low profile
- It is perfect for picking up mud on shoes and paws
- Comes in different sizes and colors to choose from
Cons
- Frequent washing can lead to shrinking
6. Hudson Exchange Waterhog Fashion Entryway Door Scraper Mat
One of the most exciting things about the Hudson Exchange Waterhog Door Mat is that it’s perfect for people with pets.
Its top layer consists of a polypropylene fiber system with water dams that easily trap and absorb dirt, mud, and water. The surface of this mat has a waffle-like design that prevents the mat from getting crushed underfoot when you wipe your shoes on it. This also means that it dries very quickly.
The bottom layer of this mat is made from skid-proof waterproof rubber, making it the ideal entryway mat for a home filled with lots of people.
This mat comes in various colors, allowing you to match the mat to your home! You can also use it both indoors and outdoors, depending on your preference.
Pros:
- It keeps your floor dry.
- It is slip-resistant.
- These mats aren’t affected by salt or ice.
- They dry fast.
- These mats work on surfaces other than hardwood, such as carpet and cement.
Cons:
- It is not stain-resistant.
7. Bungalow Flooring Waterhog Runner Door Mat
The Bungalow Flooring Waterhog Mat is decorative and safe for use on hardwood flooring. These waterproof mats come in various colors and surface patterns that easily brighten the entryway into your home.
You can use the Bungalow Flooring entry mats both indoors and outdoors and on a variety of surfaces. These include marble, tile, laminate, carpet, vinyl, concrete, and deck wood.
While the Bungalow Flooring mats are some of the best entry mats for hardwood floors, they cost a little extra.
However, the floral fiber surfaces of these mats are ridged, which means they were designed to prevent water, dirt, and debris from entering your home. The mats’ rubber backing is also anti-skid. It is worth noting that the surface of the mats is made from 94% recycled materials, while the rubber backing is manufactured from 20% recycled Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR).
A notable feature of these mats is that they absorb 1.5 gallons of water per square yard – you won’t have to worry about tracking in excess water after spending the whole day outside.
Pros:
- These mats are easy to clean.
- They are highly absorbent.
- These mats are durable.
- They are pretty to look at.
Cons:
- These mats aren’t machine washable.
8. nuLOOM Moroccan Blythe Area Rug
The nuLOOM Moroccan Blythe Area Rug is one of the best pet and kid-friendly entry mats. It was designed specifically for people who need a large entry mat that can withstand lots of foot traffic.
Aside from the fact that these mats are ideal for hardwood floors, it is incredibly durable. This is because they are made from 100% polypropylene, a synthetic material designed to withstand the wear and tear of everyday life. Every mat comes with a built-in non-slip grip pad underneath it.
If you don’t want to use this mat in your home’s entryway, you can use it in your kitchen, living room, dining room, and various hallways.
These mats are 0.37” tall, so you can easily slide them under both doors and furniture without obstructions. nuLOOm designs its products with a neutral color palette, which means they don’t show dirt easily. These entry mats also blend in with most types of decor!
You can use a vacuum cleaner to remove accumulated dirt and a mild detergent if there are any lingering stains.
Pros:
- These mats come in three different sizes.
- They are stain-resistant.
- They are easy to clean.
Cons:
- These mats are not machine-washable.
9. Color G Indoor Door Mat
Our last pick is the Color G Indoor Door Mat. This entry mat is designed to absorb dirt and grime from your shoes when you enter your home.
These mats are very durable, soft, and easy to clean. Each rug comes with a non-slip fabric underneath, making it anti-skid. You can wash these mats using a cleaning brush and liquid detergent.
These mats also come in various colors and sizes to match the mat to the decor in your house!
Pros:
- This mat is easy to clean.
- It is soft and durable.
Cons:
- These mats are pretty expensive.
- They are not machine-washable.
See also: Best cushions for rocking chairs
Buying Guide: How To Choose The Best Entry Mats For Hardwood Floors
1. Super Absorbent
When it comes to entry mats, you want something that is not only durable but super absorbent.
Entry mats for hardwood floors should be able to catch all of the dirt and debris from your shoes. This is because your hardwood flooring can get very slippery when wet from snow or rain so the mat should help prevent slips and falls by providing a non-slip surface.
2. Design
An entry mat’s design is crucial because you want to buy something that looks good and is functional. Ensure the mat is designed to absorb water, dirt, and other types of grime. You must also purchase an entry mat whose design works with the place’s climate. For instance, if you live in an area that snows often, you must buy a rug that can absorb large quantities of water.
An additional bonus is buying an entry mat that matches the decor and aesthetic of your home!
3. Material – Synthetic or Natural
Aside from matching your decor and absorbing dirt, you must consider the material the entry mat is made from before purchasing it.
If a mat is made from synthetic fibers, there’s a good chance that it will last longer. This is because synthetic mats usually contain plastic fibers that absorb more liquid. They are also cheaper and easier to clean.
On the other hand, natural entry mats are more expensive but last longer. This is because natural fibers don’t break down quickly. They are also safer for babies and pets because they are made from non-toxic material.
4. Non-Slip/Skid
It is important that an entryway doormat doesn’t slide so that you don’t slip on your way into the house.
The best choice will have some sort of non-slip PVC or rubber backing to grip the floor as well as to protect it from scratches caused by the mat itself.
5. Low Profile Entry Mat
Apart from providing floor protection and keeping dirt outside, entry mats should also ease movement in and out of the house.
This can be achieved by choosing a low-profile mat that can work best on any size of space or door type.
A low-profile mat will not hinder the door from closing or opening. Also, it will not collect too much dirt because of its design which makes it easier to clean than high-profile mats.
In addition, it eases movement for people who are wheelchair-bound as they cannot go over the high-profile mat easily due to their limited mobility.
The level ground provides stability when coming indoors from outdoors so that there is no tripping hazard present on the threshold of your property.
6. Size
The size of the entry mat depends on the amount of space you have at home. You need to consider the height of the rug because you’ll need to fit the mat underneath furniture or your front door. The width and length of the mat are also crucial because it needs to be big enough to absorb enough dirt.
7. Easy To Clean
You know how important it is to keep your home neat and tidy. One of the best ways to do that is with a high-quality entry mat.
Entry mats are also great for protecting your floors from dirt, mud, water, and other nasty substances that can get tracked inside, especially from those muddy shoes.
This is why you don’t want an entry mat that just looks good – you want one that’s easy to clean too. Choose a mat that is machine washable or one that just needs to be sprayed down with a hose makes cleaning up messes so much easier.
FAQs
The best way to protect a wood floor entryway is by using a doormat or entryway mat.
It should be made of durable materials that can withstand heavy foot traffic. Also, the mat should stay in place thanks to an adhesive PVC or rubber backing.
In addition, it has a nonslip surface so you don’t have to worry about slipping on any liquid spills.
What kind of mats is safe for hardwood floors?
There’s a lot to consider when choosing a mat that is safe for a hardwood floor. But the most important thing is that they should be nonslip and made from natural materials like rubber or cork.
Cork or rubber mats will not scratch the delicate wood flooring as compared to plastic or vinyl mats.
In addition, they are ideal because you can step on them without worrying about sliding around and potentially having an accident when carrying something heavy.
These types of mats also protect the flooring in high-traffic areas such as front entrances so they last longer between cleanup sessions.
Are Waterhog mats safe for hardwood floors?
There is no doubt that Waterhog mats are good, especially for high-traffic areas. They easily trap dirt, sand, debris, and moisture, which make them perfect for wet feet and spills.
For this reason, they are great for hardwood floors since they protect them from moisture. However, it’s important not to let the mats sit on your floor too long as they will cause excessive wear over time.
Conclusion
To conclude, we have selected and reviewed the best entry mats for hardwood floors in this article. These mats will not only protect your floor but also add a touch of style to the entryway.
The most important thing to note when choosing an entry mat for a wood floor is that it should have a PVC or rubber backing.
The backing will help to keep the mat in place as well as prevent moisture from seeping and getting onto the floor. The last thing you want is moisture or water on your hardwood floor as this can damage it.
