Rugs and matt are used to decorate homes, and most of us don’t understand the difference between them. The confusion between both is also because most countries, like China, have one word for both items. But there’s a difference.
A rug is thicker than a mat, but in comparison, it’s bigger, covering more surface area. It doesn’t fit over the entire floor as a carpet does. A doormat, as obvious, is smaller and thinner, and people use it as foot mats, doormats, and even to pray in some religions like Islam.
This is the major difference anyone would want to know about when buying a rug or a mat. But we will dive deeper into the subject from here.
What’s a Rug?
A rug is a woven piece of cloth that is smaller than a carpet but bigger than a doormat. Rug history goes back to the 7th century through weaving art, which was prevalent back in the day rooting from Egypt and China. The rugs we use today are mostly made of wool because it’s soft and durable. We also use machines to fulfill supply and demand.
What are Rugs Made From?
The rugs were made from organic fiber, so they can last 4 to 5 years without losing their shine. Today, we use fabrics such as wool, polyester, silk, nylon, acrylic, or cotton.
What’s the usual size of the Rug?
Rugs come in different sizes. Look at this rug size chart below.
| Room Size | Ideal Rug Size |
| 7 x 10 feet | 5 x 8 feet |
| 10 x 12 feet | 8 x 10 feet |
| 11 x 14 feet | 9 x 12 feet |
| 14 x 17 feet | 12 x 15 feet |
You have to check your room’s dimensions before investing in an expensive rug. These room measurements are also helpful when buying a carpet.
What’s a Doormat?
A doormat is a small piece of cloth that we use as a safe surface for people to wipe their shoes or feet before they enter our house to keep the place clean. Outdoor water-draining doormats are most useful in this case.
In old times, doormats were first used in Iran, known as Mesopotamia. Doormats are similar to rugs regarding their material and pattern created through weaving.
What are Doormats Made From?
Doormats are made with fabrics like wool, coir, cotton, microfibre, nylon, cotton, natural rubber, and polypropylene. Each material serves its purpose differently, depending on its type.
What’s The Usual Size of A Doormat?
A doormat is typically available in sizes from 40cm to 100 cm. Look at the doormat size chart below to get a clearer idea:
| Mat size | Size in cm: | Size in in inches: |
| Small Doormat | 40cm x 60cm | approx. 24″ x 16″ |
| Standard Doormat | 50cm x 75cm | approx. 30″ x 20″ |
| Medium Doormat | 60cm x 85cm | approx. 24″ x 33″ |
| Large Doormat | 75cm x 100cm | approx. 30″ x 39″ |
A doormat is smaller than a rug or a carpet. There are some similarities as well. The rug and mat are both weaved and date back in history. They are both available in cotton, nylon, and wool.
We now look at the detailed chart (turtlemat.co.uk/faq/?t=5) of differences between a rug and a doormat. Use the size charts to avoid shocking surprises when shopping for these items online.
4 Main Differences between Rugs and Doormats
| Rug | Doormat |
| Bigger in size | Smaller in size |
| Generally expensive | Budget-friendly |
| Coming from Egypt | Coming from Mesopotamia |
| Used as decorative item | used as a foot and shoe cleaner |
Carpets, rugs, and doormats fall in the same category, but each is different in one or another.
You should, however, be very careful when using a carpet, rug, and doormat. The Stains are usually stubborn.
Conclusion
There are a few differences between a rug and a mat. Each has its purpose and usefulness, which is why we have used them since the beginning. They are a part of our civilization and have improved with us.
Educating yourself about these purposeful items is good for you to make a good buying decision. If you are purchasing it from a shop, ask their labor to come to your house for accurate measurements.
