Environment & Usage Considerations
To select the best mat for your particular needs, you must consider the quality and performance ability of the mat and your environment. Anti-fatigue mats are available in virtually every price range, but as you might expect, price is often linked to performance and durability. Its imperative that you consider your specific needs and environment, and that you understand how a mat will perform under those conditions. Make sure you select a mat that can withstand the rigors of your environment and safely meet the requirements of your workspace.
- Would you characterize your environment as dry, damp, or wet?
- Are you working in a setting thats sensitive to bacteria?
- Will your matting be exposed to grease and/or oil, or chemicals?
- Will workers be using plasma cutters, grinders, or welders that generate slag?
- Are you working with equipment or components that are sensitive to static electricity?
- Will you sweep/wipe down or hose off your mat to clean it, or do you want/need to sterilize it in an autoclave or have it commercially laundered?
The chart below is designed to help you determine which mats meet your specific needs based on the questions above.
Worn and damaged mats should be removed from service and replaced immediately. When mats are kept in service beyond their useful service life, they no longer deliver the anti-fatigue benefits they were designed to provide.
Kangaroo Brands Original Comfort Standing Mat
When it comes to some of the basic features of this product, there are some big similarities here between this Kangaroo model and the Gorilla Grip one above. There is the same thickness on the foam, the same choices of sizes and the same promises of an easy-clean, reliable surface. There are more color choices this time, to suit even more decors, but otherwise, it is pretty similar to that product above.
The pros and cons of this floor mat
PROS
- the thickness of the mat
- the quality of the materials the brand used
- the durability of the smaller products
CONS
- the risk of cracks with the larger products
- the way that the edges can stick up.
The similarities here mean that the benefits are also familiar and come as no surprise. There is enough comfort for most users to stand here for longer periods. The surface lives up to claims and looks pretty good. The biggest problem here comes with the way that some of these larger mats are boxed up.
They are folded to fit the package, which puts them at risk of damage. This means that they can develop creases down the middle, which later split and crack. This is especially disappointing in a product designed to be heavy-duty and long-lasting. This can also mean that the edges dont lie flat, which can be a bit of a health hazard.
Is it recommendable?
Understanding Material & Performance
Material directly impacts the mats performance and durability. The majority of anti-fatigue mats are made of one of three materials – PVC , rubber, polyurethane or a blend of the first two.
PVC is typically the low-cost leader in the group. However, as materials go, its far less durable than rubber or polyurethane, and more susceptible to environmental elements, even air temperature. PVC mats are notorious for rippling, cracking, and curling at the edges which can create an unsafe situation. When compared to rubber, vinyl is far less slip-resistant. In fact, when wet, many vinyl mats do not meet the minimum requirements for slip resistance. If you select a PVC anti-fatigue mat, we highly recommend choosing one whose surface is molded, not glued, to the foam base. This will reduce the likelihood of cracking, curling, and delamination to help prolong the life of the mat.
As you can imagine, mats that blend PVC and nitrile rubber offer a blend of benefits between the two materials. PVC/nitrile-blended mats wont be impervious to grease and oil like pure nitrile, but they will be resistant to it. Over time, grease and oil will degrade blended products so they are not recommended for environments with grease, oil, or certain chemicals. Nor are the suitable for environments with slag.
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Sky Mats Anti Fatigue Comfort Floor Mat
The first thing that stands out with user reviews for this mat is the fact that it actually stays in place. The grip on the bottom of this matt is much more reliable than that of other brands we have looked at so far. This, along with those beveled edges should mean that it is a safe option for seniors as they work in the kitchen or any other area of the home.
The pros and cons of this floor mat.
PROS
- the durability of the surface
- the chemical smell.
For the most part, users are really happy with the comfort offered with this mat. The foam is responsive and soft enough to ease pain and fatigue, without getting too squishy and unsupportive.
These mats are a little smaller, with the largest measuring 24 by 70 inches. Still, there are a couple of problems with this mat. The first is the fact the surface color chips off with repeated wear. Users that want this in their kitchen for daily use may find that the design and look of the mat dont hold up too well after a few months.
This may be reduced with bare feet rather than shoes, but this may not be a good idea for all those using the matt for foot and joint problems. Others have pointed out that there is quite a strong smell that emanates from the mat after it has been unboxed. This can wear off with a little airing but may be overpowering at first, especially for those with health issues.
Is it recommendable?
How Thick Should They Be
The general rule here is for a thickness of 3/4 of an inch. This may not sound like a lot, but it does provide that fine line between too much padding and not enough. If the mats are too thick, they may have too much bounce or give. This could make them difficult to walk upon, especially for anyone with balance or coordination issues. If you go too thin, it wont have the cushioning needed to help with those medical issues. Homes that already have some form of softer, thicker flooring may appreciate mats that are just an inch thick instead.
Also Check: Megacomfort Personal Anti Fatigue Mat Insoles
Diamond Plate / Knob Back Wet Area Anti
The comfort and durability of Diamond Plate Anti-Fatigue matting in a configuration that makes it suitable for wet area applications, areas that were previously restricted to the traditional molded products with their marginal anti-fatigue performance. This new Diamond Plate/Knob Back Anti-Fatigue matting is selfextinguishing, nonflammable, and chemical resistant.
Do They Actually Work
The answer here depends on your aims as a carer or relative. If you want a new time of flooring that will cure or significantly reduce a medical issue, you are probably out of luck. The mats cant reverse the impact of arthritic joints or reduce varicose veins. Still, there is the chance that these mats can allow people to stand on a surface for a little longer than normal. Carers installing these mats should also remember that other factors may help, or be to blame for foot and leg pain. Make sure that your relatives have appropriate footwear on and undergo the right treatments and physiotherapy for their condition.
Read Also: Chantecaille Anti Fatigue Corrector Pen
Hebe Oversized Anti Fatigue Comfort Mats
This stain resistant HEBE kitchen mat works perfectly in the kitchen, gym or office. It comes as an oversized cover that features tapered edges made to prevent one from tripping. The mat is equipped with a polyurethane gel foam that can help your feet from tiring and also provide good posture.
It helps release stress especially in certain pressure points on the body such as the knees and feet ankles. HEBE provides an entirely cushioned anti-fatigue mat that helps for standing over the desk for long periods.
Pros
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons
- A bit narrower than ordinary mats
HEBE Oversized Anti Fatigue Comfort mat comes with a minimalistic design and dimensions in measurements of 20 x 59 and a thickness of 0.6. The incorporated polyurethane foam works well to remove stress and strain in the whole lower body part, making it good when standing for long hours.
Whats more, cleaning this mat is quite easy. They are perfect for kitchen use because they are oil and stain resistant. You can easily clean them with a gentle vacuum or by swiping with a damp cloth.
Is it recommendable?
The HEBE Oversized Anti Fatigue Comfort Mat is designed for seniors. It helps aid the patellar area and provide great knee support. It reduces pressure by lowering joints and muscles, alleviate pressure from the lumbar spinal area and pelvis, and eliminate lower back pain.
Newlife By Gelpro Anti
This is the first of these mats to treat the product as an attractive accessory for the home, not just a medical device. There is a vast range of designs available on this product, ranging from different patterns and stone effects to bolder options like camo and the Texas flag. This means that users have something nice to look and can really make more of a feature.
The pros and cons of this floor mat.
PROS
- The shape of the long, thin mat
CONS
- misconceptions over the material used
- a lack of grip underneath
The design of the mat also benefits from beveled edges that should never curl unlike those above and that makes the mat a little safer. Therefore, this should have greater appeal with carers and relatives buying this for their older relatives.
Again, there are lots of size options, with an of an inch thick foam. The 30 by 108-inch model is particularly appealing because of its long thin shape. This means a wider maximum reach so that users can move between different areas. It is designed with standing desks in mind but is just as practical for food preparation areas in a kitchen.
Is it recommendable?
There is room for improvement with the underside of this product. Still, there is no doubt that the designers put a lot of work into the surface. The wider length, fun designs and thick foam mean that this could be an attractive and practical option for many homes.
Read Also: How To Deal With Mental Fatigue
How Do You Clean An Anti
Some mats differ from brand to brand, but most mats can easily be wiped clean with a wet dish towel. Just fill a bowl with warm water and a few drops of dish soap, dip the towel in the water, and wipe the mat off. For more trough cleaning or sanitizing, try an antibacterial cleaner and a scrubbing cloth. Most mats can also be hosed off if you’re dealing with a fresh spill or just want a quick rinse.
What Is An Anti
Put most simply, an anti-fatigue mat is any mat with some sort of cushioning that is meant to be stood on for long periods. Most anti-fatigue mats are made of some type of foam cushion â think a really thick yoga mat. The purpose of these mats is to alleviate foot pain from long-term standing as well as relieve pressure on many different body parts that come with standing for long periods. Anti-fatigue mats make it easier to stand for more extended time frames and more comfortable while you do it. Some kitchen tasks require some extra elbow grease, like removing stubborn sink stains or kneading pasta dough, and having a mat under your feet while experiencing that added pressure and stress on your joints can make a world of difference.
Don’t Miss: Green Anti Fatigue Kitchen Mat
Shop Bathroom Rugs & Mats At Jcpenney
Bath rugs and mats help in keeping your bathroom dry and clean. They feel pleasant underfoot and keep floors dry, all while enhancing the overall look of the room. JCPenney offers a wide range of bath rugs and mats. You can pick them in various shapes, sizes, colors, and materials to match your towel collections and naturally blend into your bathroom. You can even shop for bath rugs with a U-shaped contour to fit perfectly around your toilet. Most of these are made from resilient fiber that provides superior stain and fade resistance to withstand daily wear and tear.
Corrugated Contract Duty Anti
Corrugated Top Anti-Fatigue mats have been around for many years and remain a favorite in commercial and industrial enviroments. The presence of imports in marketplace is something we have been watching and to give our distributors an advantage, we developed our Contract Duty Mats.Contract Duty Corrugated offers the quality of a laminated at a price point that is sure to fit any budget.
Also Check: Cleveland Clinic Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
What Is The Maximum Reach Zone
You also have to think about the length of the mat and the area that it covers. This isnt a piece of flooring for the entire room, this is something to use in key areas of the home, such as around the sink, food preparation areas and/or stove. The maximum reach zone is the maximum area that this may need to reach for normal, active use. Users dont want to find themselves stepping on or off the matt repeatedly.
Butterfly Long Kitchen Anti Fatigue Floor Mat
The antique look is clearly a popular choice with seniors looking for a kitchen mat because this Butterly model takes a similar approach. There are some interesting patterns on offer here with the Lace, Tile Spray, and Home designs. Each comes as either a light or a dark matt with a rustic country kitchen feel. Some also come in some brighter colors, just in case that dark brown is a little too dull.
The pros and cons of this floor mat.
PROS
- The foam is thick and comfortable
- There are some nice choices of size for different areas
- The patterns are a nice idea
CONS
- The colors arent always as advertised
- The surface doesnt last as long as it could
This product ticks most of the right boxes when it comes to the shape, materials and comfort features. This mat is less than an inch thick, once again, with contoured, no curl edges and a series of lengths. There are smaller 20 by 32-inch mats for small areas by sinks or longer 24 by 70-inch mats for wider work areas.
It also retains the same comfort foam and wipe clean surface. One of the potential downsides here is that this wipe-clean surface may wipe off a little too much. There are some buyers that say the finish isnt as good as it used to be on these mats. In addition to this, some say that the colors arent quite as advertised.
Is it recommendable?
Read Also: Can Heart Valve Problems Cause Fatigue
Price: Bang For Your Buck
The Sky Mats MSRP ranges from roughly $45 to $100 depending on the size you go with, which is pretty middle-of-the-road as far as anti-fatigue mats go. And after testing three competitors, we would definitely say this one gives you the best bang for your buck. You can certainly find cheaper options, but they likely wont be as durable and they may slide around on your floors. As far as we could tell, there isnt much that differentiates pricier options, either, so we wouldnt spend more on a competitor.
Competition: Blows Competitors Out Of The Water
If our rave review hasnt tipped the scale for you, then just consider the facts: The Sky Mat stays in place, is ultra-supportive, and comes in a handful of sizes and colors to best suit your needs. If you have the money, wed definitely recommend buying it, but if youre looking for a more budget-friendly pick, check out the $30 . It measures 36 x 20 inches and also features beveled non-curling edges so you dont have to worry about tripping over it.
Yes, buy it.
The Sky Solutions Anti-Fatigue Sky Mat does everything it promises and more. If you prefer an anti-fatigue mat on the softer side, the Sky Mat is certainly your best bet.
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How Long Do They Last
The longevity of these products can depend on the materials used and the brand. Some cheaper option may wear out faster than thicker, carefully designed options. It is important to note when these mats do start to wear thin. The thinner they get, the less of an impact they will have on the condition in question. There is also the issue of the amount of wear they endure. Repeated use and heavy footfall will reduce the lifespan of the product. That is why it helps to look for more heavy-duty models that can last a few years in areas of frequent use.
The Goldilocks Of Anti
Rachel is a writer for The Spruce Eats. She is passionate about all things fashion and home and takes pride in helping readers make informed consumer decisions.
We independently research, test, review, and recommend the bestproductslearn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.
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Bathroom Rugs And Mats In Different Styles
Our sumptuous range of bath rugs and mats feature solid, striped, patterned, and botanical designs. We even have sea-inspired rugs for your coastal home. Most are machine washable and feature non-skid surface to ensure a better grip for wet feet. Select cotton mats for soft underfoot feel or microfiber rugs as they are highly absorbent and quick drying. Nylon options are wear-resistant, memory-foam ones are anti-microbial, and PVC mats are mildew proof. Choose the ones that are easy to launder on a regular basis.
Look through a wide range of single bathroom rugs and mats as well as bath rug sets, shower curtains, and other bathroom accessories at JCPenney. Browse through an array of top brands like Linden Street, Liz Claiborne, Fieldcrest, and Kennedy International to find the perfect one for your home.
