A better environment starts with a doormat

Heros on socks, welcome

In many cultures it is customary to take of your shoes upon entrance. Or as they do in Japan, change your shoes in the hallway for special home flip flops. In the Netherlands this usually is not something we do, especially not in the workplace. Yet, it wouldn't be such a crazy idea, because most dirt comes from outside. You don't need to be a germophobe to avoid this dirt. It also is one of the biggest reason why the carpet wears.

Preventing is better than cleaning

There are a lot of ways to properly clean the carpet. But it's best when the dirt is not brought inside at all. And since we prefer to keep our shoes on, we need to get them inside as clean as possible.

Walking shoes clean in three steps

In an ideal world the entrance has three areas

1. Outside brushing area. A rough, hard brush mat outside to collect the worst outside presents, from mud and stones to dog's poo.
2. Walk-clean area. A somewhat finer mat at the door for collecting dirt and sand.
3. Walk-dry area. An absorbing (cotton) mat in the hallway to dry the soles when walking on it.

A clean inside is better for the environment

With these steps even profiled shoes should be clean. With the condition of the mats being cleaned and changed regularly, especially the walk-dry mat, with wet weather this one quickly turns into a ink pad making your beautiful carpet a dingy walk-dry area. A clean, dry entrance is more sustainable, simply because your carpet lasts longer. This is better economically and ecologically. It's not just a matter of respect for the inner space like in Japan, but also for the outside: our beautiful earth.