Floor Mats, Chair Mats and Floor Care Supplies

What the floor needs: wiper mat, chair mat or grip pad

Entrance and wiper mats trap grit and moisture at a door, and their width should at least cover the door opening, with enough length for two steps. A chair mat protects the floor under rolling casters; those with a lip extend under the desk. Carpet chair mats usually have gripper studs on the back, which can mark hard floors, so use a smooth-backed hard-floor type there. Sizes such as 36 x 60 inches give the two sides.

Care tools and small fittings

A floor scrubber polisher is a powered tool for hard floors, so check its cable or battery, pad size and weight. Adjustable mop poles list their extended length, which should reach the floor from a standing position without stooping. Anti-slip silicone pads, such as 16-piece sets with a 40 mm diameter, sit under furniture feet or rug corners and need to be the same size as the foot. A rubber backing keeps a mat from creeping across a smooth floor.

Questions about Floor Mats, Chair Mats and Floor Care Supplies

What size entrance mat do I need?

Choose one at least as wide as the door opening and long enough for two full steps, which is roughly 3 feet deep. Allow clearance so the door can swing over the mat without catching. A larger mat catches more dirt before it reaches the floor.

Can I use a carpet chair mat on a hard floor?

It is not advised. Carpet mats often carry gripper studs that can scratch or mark hardwood and tile. Choose a mat labeled for hard floors, with a smooth or cushioned backing, and check that the chair casters are suited to the floor too.

How do I stop a rug from sliding?

Use a non-slip pad or gripper cut slightly smaller than the rug, and make sure the floor is clean and dry. Silicone pads help under furniture feet. On polished floors, check that the grip material will not stain or bond to the finish.