Install Footmats in High-Traffic Areas

What happens in this clip

Select additional footmats suitable for indoor use in areas prone to dust and dirt accumulation, like the kitchen, bathroom, or balcony entrances. For the kitchen, place a mat in front of the sink or stove. For bathrooms, place it just inside the doorway. For balconies, position it directly inside the balcony door. Similar to entryway mats, ensure they are flat and securely positioned to collect debris and spills, contributing to a cleaner home and reducing the need for extensive dusting on surrounding surfaces.

Goal: Extend the use of footmats to high-traffic indoor areas such as the kitchen, bathroom, and balcony entrances to further minimize the spread of dust and dirt.

What's used

Materials

• Footmats

About the full video

This project outlines several habits to maintain a dust-free home and reduce allergens. It focuses on preventative measures like using footmats at entrances and in high-traffic areas, implementing shoe racks to store footwear outside living spaces, and opting for minimal decor to simplify cleaning and minimize dust accumulation.

Step 2 of 5: Apply Temporary Mats or Runners

Lay down heavy-duty, waterproof mats or runners in the primary entry area. For stairs, consider using individual stair treads or a long runner that covers the width of the steps. Ensure the mats lie flat and do not create tripping hazards. Choose materials that are easy to clean and can withstand heavy foot traffic and moisture.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Protect Stairs and Entry Floors from Winter Salt and Slush

1. Step 1: Clean Entryway and Stairs

   • 0:30–2:29 Clean the Entryway Floor
   • 3:48–4:50 Sweep Stairs and Entryway
   • 0:25–0:39 Mop Entryway and Hallway Floors

2. Step 2: Apply Temporary Mats or Runners

   • 0:04–0:09 Place Footmats at Entrances
   • 0:09–0:16 Install Footmats in High-Traffic Areas (this video)
   • 7:27–8:00 Strategically Place Entryway Rugs and Mats

3. Step 3: Install Peel-and-Stick Floor Protection

   • 0:09–0:15 Install New Stair Treads
   • 1:09–2:26 Install First Rounded Stair Tread
   • 0:02–0:06 Apply Anti-Slip Strip

4. Step 4: Apply a Protective Coating or Sealant

   • 1:13–1:15 Apply Protective Sealer
   • 8:31–9:28 Applying Water-Based Sealer and Acrylic Floor Finish
   • 1:11–1:14 Apply Protective Sealer

5. Step 5: Maintain Protective Measures

   • 1:55–2:11 Establish a Mat Maintenance Routine
   • 1:40–1:55 Deploy and Secure Floor Safety Mats
   • 0:58–1:29 Vacuum Loose Debris