What Is The Best Material For Durable Outdoor Doormats?

What Is The Best Material For Durable Outdoor Doormats?

Written by: Karen Marsh

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Doormats are masters at trapping dirt, mud, and debris from shoes. They act as the first line of defense, preventing these unwelcome guests from making their way into your clean floors. Giving visitors a chance to wipe their dirty shoes before they enter a home can make a huge difference in the long run with respect to cleanliness and tidiness. 

As important as they are, outdoor doormats can also be a chore to maintain. Because they’re used for wiping dirt and debris off of shoes, they amass an enormous amount of filth over time. 


Depending on the doormat, this can affect the longevity of the material significantly. The dirt, debris, and constant foot traffic can wear down the material of the doormat, severely affecting the aesthetic appeal and useful functionality of the doormat.


Because of this, it’s important to choose an outdoor doormat that will both meet aesthetic expectations and stand the test of time. 

Rubber Doormats

Doormats made out of thick rubber can be extremely durable, able to withstand months and years of inclement weather and regular use. As effective as they are in this respect, the rubber often insulates and traps moisture underneath the doormat. This facilitates the growth of algae and mold throughout periods of rain or humidity.


Most doormats, even if not constructed entirely with rubber, have a base layered or coated with rubber, making this algae growth a problem with most doormats.


Another concern is that rubber can get very hot in the summer and crack in the cold winter air. This can affect how long your outdoor doormat lasts.

Rubber Doormats

Lobster Rope Doormats

Because of all these different benefits and costs, finding a heavy duty doormat that stands the test of time without the drawbacks of dirt and algae growth can be difficult. 


Although it may be difficult, it’s not impossible. 


One notoriously reliable and durable alternative is lobster rope–these doormats are heavy duty and heavy weight, leaving the owner assured that they won’t fly away in the event of a windstorm or other weather phenomenon. 

New England Trading Co. offers many wonderfully crafted doormats in stock in various colors and patterns. These make excellent doormats, especially for those who enjoy nautically themed decor. 

This is the perfect choice for those looking for a heavy duty doormat. The rope makes wiping dirt and debris from shoes simple and effective. Additionally, lobster rope doormats fit nicely into the category of washable doormats–a quality not all doormats share.

The Lobster Rope Doormat Story

Lobster rope is used by fishers to fasten assortments of lobster traps together. Engineered to stay intact beneath the sea, this hardworking rope is the ideal material for outdoor use.


In 2009 the federal government enacted a law forbidding the use of a specific type of lobster rope in lobster trapping. The forbidden rope was was a type of floating lobster rope that was said to create entangling risk for whales. 


Fortunately for the fishermen in the industry, they were able to receive vouchers for newer, safe netting to secure their lobster traps. 

The solution to the problem of animal safety, ironically, created another issue. All this rope—miles and miles of it—had nowhere to go and no use. 

The prospect of all this rope rotting away in a landfill would be terrible for the environment, so instead, this rope has been woven into durable, stylish, effective doormats that serve as useful reminders to their owners of their purpose. 


In 2009 The New England Trading Company became the first to sell Recycled Lobster Rope Doormats online and have been selling them since. We continue to work with fisherman who turn in used rope, rather than throwing it away.

In addition, all-weather mats made from brand new, marine-grade fishing rope are available in a wide range of bright and cool coastal colors.


Choosing a new rope Lobster Rope Doormat, also known as Wicked Good Doormats, helps reduce waste and consumption, because each doormat lasts so many years longer than a traditional doormat.

Why it Matters To Choose The Right Material For An Outdoor Doormat

Your home deserves a beautiful entrance, and the right outdoor doormat is the first step in achieving that. 


  • Outdoor doormat material must be fast-drying to avoid mildew and mold growth.

  • Outdoor doormat material must be easy to clean due to the high traffic front door mats receive. 

  • Outdoor doormat material must have added UV protection to resist fading for years.

  • Outdoor doormat material must be engineered strong and durable - like lobster rope - to put up with all the foot traffic.

  • Lastly, outdoor doormat material must avoid odors. We want to welcome our guests warmly and give them the right impression.

Investing in a good, long-lasting doormat will save you time and money. You will thank yourself every time you come home. 

Shopping Smart for Doormats...


Making a heavy duty doormat that doubles as a washable doormat part of your home decor is a great investment that will pay off over time. 


Lobster rope doormats are extremely durable and will stand the test of time. Their sustainability, durability, and availability in a range of color options make them great shopping choices for anyone in the market for a new doormat this year.

Check out our ultimate doormat buying guide, designed specifically to help you find the perfect outdoor doormat for your home. And that's not all—prepare to impress your guests every time they arrive with these stunning outdoor mat designs. Elevate your entrance with style and functionality. 

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