WaterHog didn’t become the world’s most beaten and beloved doormat overnight. It’s taken nearly four decades of testing, refinement, and people beating the hell out of their WaterHog mats to earn the title of “World’s Most Disrespected Mat.”
Over the years there have been ups and downs, improvements and discontinuations, knockoffs and copy-cats (so many knock-offs, looking at you Amazon); but one thing that’s stayed true is our commitment to making quality matting solutions that protect people and the floors in their homes.
This article is here to celebrate and educate on the world’s most disrespected (because it’s so respected) floor mat brand, WaterHog.
WaterHog: Built to Take a Beating.
When it comes to floor mats, the term "durable" often feels like an exaggeration. But WaterHog? It redefined what durability truly means for doormats and floor mats. These mats are designed to handle the worst of any space, standing up to the daily rigors of whatever life throws at them—from the dirtiest boots to the wettest paws and the unpredictable roller coaster that is the weather.. Let’s unpack what makes WaterHog mats so special, starting with their rugged reputation.
A Brief History of WaterHog
Why “Designed to be Disrespected” is Our Motto
It’s not every day that a product embraces the idea of being disrespected. But for WaterHog, it’s a badge of honor. This motto captures our confidence in a WaterHog’s ability to withstand years of use and abuse without showing signs of wear.
What does "disrespected" really mean here? You know the picture here, it’s your normal, everyday life: muddy soccer cleats stomping in after a game, soaking wet feet and paws dripping from every angle, or sand-covered feet and toes ready to wreak gritty havoc on the floors in your home. For other mats, this might spell doom. For a WaterHog mat, it’s just another day at work.
WaterHog mats are designed to handle the chaos of daily life; everything from harsh weather to the nasty and dirty elements you track in on a daily basis. WaterHog mats don’t just survive; they thrive. They’re the unsung (dare we say disrespected!?) heroes of your household—always there, always reliable, and always ready for more.
Protection to the Core
At its heart, a WaterHog mat is more than just a mat—it’s a protective layer for your home. These floor mats are engineered to provide exceptional floor protection, safeguarding against scratches, stains, and wear caused by daily life. From muddy boots to high-heels and flip-flops, a WaterHog floor mat ensures your floors stay in pristine condition for years to come.
But the protection isn’t just about keeping your floors clean and pretty, WaterHog mats are also designed with your family’s safety in mind, providing incredible grip and traction in tough situations. Every WaterHog mat is certified by the National Floor Safety Institute. It’s protection you can feel confident about, for both your floors and the people who walk on them.
What Makes a WaterHog Worthy to Handle Your Worst?
Life always gets messy and hectic; it just does. When life gets messy—and it always does—a WaterHog mat is the one thing willing to lay down in the chaos that is your front doors, back doors, hallways, and high-traffic areas. Built to perform and thrive in the casual calamity of your home, WaterHog mats aren’t just ordinary floor mats; they’re engineered tools that blend functionality, durability, and style. Here’s why they’re more than capable of handling your worst.
The Rubber Backing: Engineered Protection
Let’s talk about the real hero of any good mat: the backing. WaterHog mats feature a high-performance rubber backing that serves as the foundation for their unmatched resilience. The rubber we make in-house is engineered to grip the floor firmly, ensuring the mat stays put—no curling at the edges, no crazy sliding across slick surfaces. Whether it’s heavy foot traffic or an energetic pet skidding to a stop, the rubber backing stands its ground.
The durability of the rubber itself is equally impressive. Unlike other doormats and floor mats that use cheaper vinyl and PVC, the rubber featured in a WaterHog resists cracking, splitting, or degrading over time, even when exposed to extreme conditions like direct sunlight or freezing temperatures. It’s a no-compromise solution to ensure the mat performs as intended, day after day.
The PET Surface: Recycled & Resilient
What makes WaterHog mats environmentally friendly also makes them incredibly tough: recycled PET fibers. This isn’t just any recycled plastic—it’s crafted to be stain-resistant, water-resistant, and virtually indestructible. PET fibers are designed to withstand wear and tear while still looking fresh and vibrant, making them perfect for busy households or commercial spaces.
And let’s not forget the eco-factor. By using recycled PET, WaterHog mats help divert waste from landfills. You get an eco-friendly product that doesn’t compromise on quality or longevity—a win for your home and the environment.
Water Resistance: Spread the Love
WaterHogs are gluttons for punishment and are known for their ability to drink their weight in water. But did you know they don’t actually absorb water? One of the standout features of a WaterHog mat is its ability to manage moisture like a pro. Thanks to its hydrophobic PET fibers, these mats don’t just absorb water—they disperse it efficiently. The dissipative properties of these fibers ensure that moisture spreads evenly across the surface, promoting rapid drying. Say goodbye to soggy, heavy mats that take forever to dry.
Meanwhile, the nearly impenetrable rubber backing acts as a fortress, preventing any moisture from seeping through to your floors. Whether it’s a rainy day, a spilled drink, or wet snow melting off boots, the water stays on the mat where it belongs. This dual-action design—quick-drying fibers on top and a moisture-blocking barrier underneath—keeps your floors safe, dry, and damage-free.
Scrape – Wipe – Contain: Patterns that Perform
WaterHog mats aren’t just designed to look good; their patterns are purpose-built for performance. The raised ridges and intricate grooves are more than decorative—they’re hardworking dirt and moisture traps. These patterns actively scrape debris off shoes and hold onto it, keeping your floors cleaner for longer. Whether it’s mud, grass, or sand, WaterHog mats keep the mess where it belongs: on the mat.
Plus, the raised design prevents water from pooling on the surface, ensuring the mat remains effective even in the rainiest or snowiest conditions. Its function meets form in the best possible way.
Fade-Resistance: Colors that Last
Many mats start to look tired and faded after a few months of use. Not WaterHog. These mats are built with fade-resistant fibers that keep their colors vibrant, even after years of exposure to sunlight or regular washing. Whether you choose a bold bordeaux or a neutral medium grey, your WaterHog mat will continue to complement your space without losing its charm.
And because they come in a variety of colors and designs, there’s a WaterHog mat for every aesthetic—from sleek and modern to cozy and traditional.
Think Other Doormats are Tough Enough to be a WaterHog? Think Again.
Not all doormats are created equal, and WaterHog isn’t just a step above—it’s in a league of its own. From rigorous testing to industry certifications and a rock-solid satisfaction guarantee, every WaterHog mat earns its stripes before it ever lands in your home. Here’s why no other doormat measures up.
Testing: Pushed to the Limit & Beyond
WaterHog mats don’t just claim to be tough—we prove it through grueling testing. These mats are subjected to heavy foot traffic simulations, extreme weather exposure, and durability stress tests to ensure they can handle whatever life throws their way. Imagine thousands of simulated steps, gallons of water poured, and all kinds of debris thrown into the mix—and the WaterHog still comes out looking and performing like new.
From its fade-resistant and water-resistant fibers to our incredibly tough and durable rubber backing, every component of a WaterHog mat is tested to meet or exceed industry standards. The result? A mat that doesn’t just survive—it thrives, no matter the challenge.
Certification: Held to a Higher Standard
WaterHog mats don’t just talk the talk—they walk the walk with certifications to back them up. These mats meet or exceed certifications for slip resistance, environmental sustainability, and safety. For example:
- Certified High-Traction by the National Floor Safety Institute
- Passes flammability standard CPSC FF 1-70
Satisfaction Guaranteed: Go Ahead, Try Us
At WaterHog, confidence in the product isn’t just a vibe—it’s a promise. Every mat comes with a satisfaction guarantee, so you can put it through your own personal hell, and if it doesn’t meet your expectations (though we’re sure it will), we’ll make it right.
Trusted by the Retailers You Trust
When it comes to credibility, nothing speaks louder than the trust of industry-leading retailers. WaterHog mats have earned their place in the lineups of some of the most respected names in the home goods and lifestyle industries. Trusted retailers like LL Bean, Anthropologie, Pendleton, West Elm, Lands’ End, Matterly, Pottery Barn, & Williams Sonoma all feature WaterHog mats in their collections.
Why? Because they know their customers demand products that combine quality, durability, and style. WaterHog mats check all those boxes—and then some. These partnerships are a testament to the mats’ proven performance and universal appeal, whether in luxury boutiques or everyday household shopping hubs.
Yeah, there’s a WaterHog for that.
Whatever your home or lifestyle demands, there’s a WaterHog mat ready to be beaten and beloved by your household. From front porches, to steps, to your pet’s feeding station, these floor mats don’t just fit—they excel. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of WaterHog mats and what makes each one a must-have.
WaterHog Doormats
WaterHog doormats are the front line of defense for your home. Built to handle the chaos of front doors, back doors, and entryways, these door mats stop dirt, moisture, and debris in their tracks. Famously known for its durable rubber backing, raised patterns, and water dam border, they can trap dirt and hold up to a gallon of water per square yard. Durable yet stylish, they come in a variety of colors and patterns to complement any decor. Whether it’s mud, snow, or rain, these doormats help your floors stay pristine and protected.
WaterHog Large Doormats
Got a wider doorway or a porch that sees heavy foot traffic? Larger WaterHog doormats are the answer. These oversized mats offer the same high-performance features as their smaller counterparts but on a larger scale. Ideal for double doors, patio entrances, or commercial spaces, they provide expansive coverage and unbeatable durability. Big messes call for a big solution, and these mats deliver.
WaterHog Stair Treads
Staircases can be tricky, especially in wet or icy conditions. WaterHog stair treads are specifically designed to add grip and safety to your stairs while enhancing their look. Made with the same durable materials as WaterHog doormats, these treads stay in place with minimal movement, providing peace of mind for every step. Plus, they’re available in colors and patterns that match your WaterHog mats, creating a seamless, coordinated look throughout your home. They require no tools or special installation requirements.
Bonus note. If you have an older dog or pet that has trouble going up or down the steps in your home, consider implementing WaterHog Stair Treads. They’re a simple solution to give your pup the confidence to go up and down without fear of slipping and following.
WaterHog Pet Bowl Mats
Let’s just call it what it is; mealtime for your pet can be gross. Slobber, drool, bits of food, and streams of water; it all finds a way to your floors. WaterHog pet bowl mats are designed to withstand the disrespect of mealtime by catching the barrage of drops and chunks that somehow find a way to evade the mouth of your pet. They’re easy to clean and feature durable rubber backing to stay in place while protecting the floor underneath, no matter how enthusiastic your pet gets at mealtime. Functional and adorable, these mats are a win-win for pet owners.
WaterHog Boot Trays
After a long day of hiking, gardening, or shoveling snow, where do your boots go? Right onto a WaterHog boot tray. These trays are built to contain mud, water, and debris, keeping the mess confined and off your floors. With raised edges and durable rubber construction, they’re the ultimate solution for wet, dirty footwear. Whether it’s your winter boots or your kids’ cleats, a WaterHog boot tray at the door is ready to contain the worst from a long day out.
WaterHog Runners & Long Floor Mats
Hallways are the highways of your home—constantly busy and prone to wear and tear. WaterHog Runners and longer floor mats provide full-length protection, making them ideal for long, narrow spaces that see heavy foot traffic. Regardless of the amount of foot traffic your home experiences, a WaterHog will never crush or flatten thanks to its rubber backing and bi-level surface.
The Green Side of WaterHog
Just because a WaterHog is built to be disrespected, doesn’t mean it has to disrespect the environment to become the world’s best mat. There’s a renewable story woven into every fiber of a WaterHog mat, making them an eco-friendly choice for homes and businesses alike. From the recycled materials we use to our responsible manufacturing practices, WaterHog is proving that durability and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand.
Recycled PET Fibers
WaterHog mats take the concept of "reduce, reuse, recycle" to the next level. Each mat is made using recycled PET fibers, the same material found in plastic bottles. By repurposing these bottles, WaterHog reduces waste that would otherwise end up in landfills or oceans. Each WaterHog mat diverts dozens of bottles from the waste stream, giving them a second life as part of a durable, high-performance product.
Rubber Repurposed
WaterHog’s durable rubber backing, renowned for its slip resistance and longevity, features up to 20% recycled materials, including regrind from old car tires. This eco-friendly innovation not only enhances the mat’s toughness but also helps reduce waste, giving discarded tires a second life. It’s sustainability you can stand on, without compromising performance.
Made Locally for Less Emissions
What’s more, all WaterHog mats are made in our manufacturing facilities located in Dalton and LaGrange, Georgia, which minimizes transportation emissions while supporting local economies. Unlike imports that require many thousands of miles in transport that produce large carbon footprints, a WaterHog often travels a few hundred miles with a much smaller footprint. When you choose WaterHog, you’re not just getting a top-tier mat—you’re supporting sustainable practices that make a real difference.
An American Workforce, Paid a Livable Wage
And lastly, and most importantly, every WaterHog mat is proudly made in the USA by a dedicated workforce earning a livable wage plus benefits, and a funded retirement program. This commitment to ethical manufacturing not only ensures high-quality craftsmanship but also supports local communities and families. By choosing WaterHog, you’re investing in a product built with care and integrity by skilled American workers who take pride in what they do. It’s quality you can trust, backed by values you can feel good about.
The world’s most disrespected mat is actually… Insanely respected.
Let’s face it: the life of a WaterHog mat isn’t glamorous. It gets stomped on by muddy boots, drenched by soggy umbrellas, and scratched by pet claws—and it loves every second of it. Designed to be disrespected, WaterHog mats thrive under the abuse most other mats would crumble beneath. But here’s the twist: while they’re made to be mistreated, they’ve earned a level of respect that few products ever achieve.
WaterHog mats aren’t just tough—they’re practically indestructible. With hydrophobic PET fibers, durable rubber backing, and fade-resistant colors, these mats are engineered to thrive in the face of chaos. Rain, snow, sand, or heavy foot traffic? Bring it on. Each mat is rigorously tested to handle life’s worst, proving time and again that it’s not just durable—it’s unstoppable.
And while the "disrespected" mantra may be tongue-in-cheek, the respect WaterHog has earned is very real. What sets WaterHog apart isn’t just the performance; it’s the values behind our brand and products. WaterHog mats are made in the USA by a workforce earning a livable wage, using recycled materials like rubber and PET materials that give new life to discarded car tires and plastic bottles. Add in rigorous testing, industry certifications, and a satisfaction guarantee, and it’s clear WaterHog stands by its promise to deliver quality you can trust.
So go ahead, disrespect it. Stomp on it. Spill on it. Put it to the ultimate test. Because the world’s most disrespected mat was designed for exactly that—and it wouldn’t have it any other way.
After all, it is the most battered, yet beloved mat in the world.
