MNN - Mother Nature Network

Now that your cupboards are filled with tumblers made from recycled Rolling Rock bottles, a word on greening one of the first objects encountered when entering your home: the doormat. A basic, no-need-to-be-fancy-or-clever staple in the home, I know, but chances are it’s made from stuff like rubber, nylon, palm tree fibers, and other materials whose manufacture and procurement can be as dirty as the shoes being wiped on the mat itself. Take a gander at these innovative doormats that let you eco-up your abode starting right at the threshold.

 

Made from excess foam rubber used in the production of flip-flop sandals that would otherwise be landfilled, these doormats are quirky, durable, and great for beach bums. They’re available in several sizes from a small doormat to a large area rug.

 

 

These funky circular doormats crafted from recycled tires are ideal for anyone with wanderlust: They mimic manhole covers found in NYC, Paris, and Chicago. Or, opt for a “You Are Here” mat.

 

 

Scan those who enter your home with this 30” by 18” doormat made from 100% recycled truck tires. It’s durable, washable, and probably won’t be found at every other house on the block.

 

 

From my favorite Brit design house, SUCK UK, comes this sassy doormat made from natural coconut husk (coir) matting. The ambigram graphic reads “Come In” or “Go Away” depending on which way you’re looking at. Sure to ward off unwanted solicitors and attract cookie-peddling Girl Scouts. 

 

 

Unusual and striking, this 20” by 29.5” mat is made from hand-gathered and polished stones. Available in ochre, black, white, and multicolored, the stones are attached to a weather-tough backing.