6 Frequently Asked Questions About Anti-Fatigue Mats

What are anti-fatigue floor mats?

The basic aim of Anti-Fatigue Floor Mats (also called Comfort Standing Mats) is to reduce the risk of fatigue and strain from long periods on hard surfaces. For example, there may be people with foot and lower limb issues that struggle to stand for a long time on hard floors. This can be a problem in kitchens, where seniors may experience pain, cramp and other problems while cooking, washing dishes or doing other chores

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 Comfort Floor 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 won’t 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.

What is the maximum reach zone?

You also have to think about the length of the mat and the area that it covers. This isn’t 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 don’t want to find themselves stepping on or off the matt repeatedly.

Do anti-fatigue mats 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.

How long do Comfort Floor Mats last?

The longevity of these Comfort Floor Mats 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.

Are they worth it?

This is a common question from relatives and carers paying out for the installation and up-front costs of these standing mats. Is it going to be worth all that time and effort for a little light relief? The answer here depends on the occupants of the home and the placement of the mats. A well-made mat in precisely the right place can provide great support for homeowners. This extra padding could allow them to perform tasks in the home and remain more active. This, in turn, can increase the likelihood of them retaining a sense of independence in their own home.