First impressions start at the front door, and your doormat is the first thing your guests see. It’s more than just a place to wipe your feet, it’s a chance to show off a bit of personality, style, and humour. Whether your home is cosy and quirky or sleek and modern, the right doormat can help set the tone before anyone even steps inside.
1. Match Your Doormat to Your Exterior Style
Take cues from your home’s exterior when choosing a mat. A traditional coir mat with a floral design might look lovely in front of a country cottage, while a minimalist rubber mat suits a modern home with clean lines. Let the overall vibe of your exterior guide your choice.
2. Use Colour to Set the Mood
Colour plays a powerful role in creating atmosphere. Bright, bold colours can feel friendly and fun, while neutral tones suggest calm and elegance. For inspiration on how to use colour around the home, House Beautiful UK offers great advice on colour schemes that work.
3. Reflect Your Sense of Humour
Cheeky sayings, witty remarks, and quirky quotes show visitors you don’t take life too seriously. A funny doormat is perfect for adding character and breaking the ice. Take a look at our Top 10 Funniest Doormats for ideas that will have your guests grinning.
4. Consider Seasonal Switch-Ups
Changing your doormat with the seasons keeps your entrance fresh and festive. A crisp autumn leaf design, a cheerful Christmas greeting, or a bright spring floral mat can instantly lift the mood and make your home feel more in tune with the time of year.
5. Align with Your Front Door
Think about your front door’s colour, shape, and material. A doormat that matches or thoughtfully contrasts can tie everything together beautifully. This small detail can make a big visual difference and boost kerb appeal.
6. Personalise It
Custom doormats with your surname, initials, or a bespoke message offer a unique touch. They also make brilliant gifts for new homeowners. Personalised mats are widely available online, with quality options on sites like Not on the High Street.
7. Pick the Right Shape and Size
Doormats aren’t one-size-fits-all. A large double-door entryway needs a wider mat, while a smaller porch might suit a semicircular one. Choosing the right shape and size ensures it looks balanced and actually works for wiping muddy feet.
8. Embrace Themes or Hobbies
If you’re a pet lover, keen gardener, or sci-fi fan, there’s a doormat to match. Let your interests shine through. These themed mats are a fun way to express yourself without going over the top. Check out our Top 10 Gift Ideas for Dog Owners for more pet-themed inspiration.
9. Keep It Functional, Not Just Decorative
A good doormat should be practical as well as stylish. Look for features like water absorbency, non-slip backing, and easy-clean materials – especially in the UK, where wet weather is never far away. Functionality ensures your doormat keeps doing its job no matter the season.
10. Think About First Impressions
Whether you want your home to say “friendly”, “stylish”, or “fun”, your doormat is your home’s handshake. It sets the tone for what lies beyond the door, so make sure it speaks to who you are and what your home is about.
Your doormat is more than a practical necessity – it’s a statement piece that gives a hint about the people inside. By aligning it with your home’s personality, you add charm and cohesion to your entrance. Whether you’re going for bold and witty or simple and elegant, there’s a doormat out there that fits the bill.
Already found the perfect doormat? Share your photos and tips in the comments below. Or if you’re still on the hunt, have a scroll through our Top 10 Unusual Doormats to discover something truly different.