What Vegans Need to Know About Door Mats

This article has been written by our Director, Richard O’Connor, who has been exploring how well door mats can align with vegan values. As a vegetarian making more vegan choices in his own life, Richard shares his personal experiences, surprising discoveries, and helpful insights into the materials used in mats and their ethical implications. If you’ve ever wondered whether something as simple as a door mat could play a role in sustainable and compassionate living, this is a must-read.

Over the last two or three years, I’ve been making gradual changes to live a more ethical and sustainable lifestyle. While I’m currently vegetarian, I try to make vegan choices wherever I can. I’ve swapped out dairy milk for soy and oat alternatives, and even made the switch to using vegan protein powders after a gym session. But one thing that really opened my eyes during this journey is just how prevalent animal products are in everyday items - not just food, but non-food products too.

From shampoo to playing cards and even LCD screens, it seems animal-derived ingredients pop up where you’d least expect them. It got me thinking about other overlooked products, like floor mats. Could something as simple as a door mat raise ethical questions? And if so, what can we do about it?

Fortunately, at the time of writing, all of the mats we offer at First Mats are free from animal products, but it’s still worth exploring the materials commonly used in mats, their sources, and their environmental impact. Here’s what I’ve discovered.

The Sneaky Animal Products in Some Mats and Rugs

When I started thinking about the materials used in mats and rugs, I wasn’t too surprised to find that animal products can sometimes be involved, even if indirectly:

• Wool: Commonly used in softer, decorative mats. While wool might seem harmless at first glance, its production methods and impact on animals make it a no-go for many vegans.

• Leather: Often found in luxury mats or trim, leather is an obvious by-product of the meat industry. While faux leather is used in many products, it’s worth double-checking if you’re unsure.

• Adhesives: This one surprised me—some glues and adhesives used in mats may include animal-derived ingredients, such as casein (a protein from milk) and collagen extracts.

It’s these hidden details that make it tricky to confidently choose products aligned with vegan values, even beyond the kitchen or wardrobe.

Vegan-Friendly Mat Materials

Thankfully, there are plenty of vegan-friendly alternatives, and they’re not just kind to animals—they’re often better for the planet too. Here are some of the most common options:

• Coir: One of my personal favourites! Coir is made from coconut husks, making it durable, natural, and biodegradable. It’s perfect for doormats, especially in homes and cottages where the rustic feel helps create a homely ambience.

• Recycled Rubber: While rubber itself is derived from the latex sap of a rubber tree, recycled rubber is a great choice for those who prefer industrial-style mats or need something for high-traffic areas. It’s not only cruelty-free but also a fantastic example of upcycling waste.

• Jute and Sisal: These are plant-based fibres that offer a more natural, rustic look. They’re sustainable and completely animal-free.

• Recycled Plastics: I’ve seen some really stylish mats, like our Eco-Plush indoor mat, which are made from recycled plastic bottles. They are surprisingly soft underfoot while keeping waste out of landfills.

Most door mats are made with a vinyl or rubber backing and Polypropylene (PP) carpet fibres. While PP is not as environmentally friendly as other materials, it’s one of the less harmful plastics and doesn’t use animal products.

Why It Matters

For me, making these choices is about more than avoiding animal products, it’s about contributing to a kinder and more sustainable world. Vegan-friendly mats:

• Are often produced with sustainability in mind, such as using natural or recycled materials.

• Help reduce reliance on industries that exploit animals or produce excessive waste.

• Last longer (especially materials like rubber and coir), meaning fewer replacements and less environmental impact.

What About the Environmental Impact?

It’s one thing to avoid animal products, but what about sustainability? For the eco-concious vegans, the best option is to use natural Coir Matting, as it is degradable and made from sustainable materials.

If you want a more modern looking mat, or a durable mat to use outdoors in all weathers, then look for either Rubber or Polypropylene mats made using recycled materials, which are becoming more common as manufacturers become more aware of their impact on the planet.

At First Mats, we’re always looking for ways to provide mats that are both practical and environmentally friendly, so we’re keeping these factors in mind as we continue to grow.

Reflecting on the Journey

As I continue to make more vegan choices in my own life, I find it empowering to look beyond the obvious and consider how everyday items, like mats, can align with my values. It’s amazing how much of an impact these small changes can make, both for the planet and for animals.

Whether you’re fully vegan or just exploring ways to live more ethically, choosing a vegan-friendly doormat is an easy step in the right direction. With so many options available, like coir, recycled rubber, or jute, it’s never been easier to find a mat that’s functional, stylish, and aligned with your principles.

Conclusion

The journey to living a more ethical life is all about learning and making small, conscious decisions. For me, thinking about something as ordinary as a door mat was an eye-opener. It’s a reminder that even the smallest items in our homes have a story to tell, and it’s up to us to decide whether that story aligns with the future we want to create.

At First Mats, we’re proud to offer a range of mats made without animal products, so you can make an informed and compassionate choice for your home. After all, every step matters.