RECLAIMED MARINE ROPE DOORMAT

There’s certainly no shortage of welcome mats on the market. But the best remain those that are easily cleaned and have some sort of personal connection to the homeowner.

For those connected to the water or who just like to see use made of the three R’s – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle – the reclaimed fl oat rope doormat could be your best choice. Handcrafted in Maine, these mats are made from used rope from the marine industry, often from lobster traps. While no longer seaworthy, the fi bers are perfect for scraping off and soaking up the detritus of a long day’s journey, before it all drops off your shoe and onto your fl oor.

Available from a host of retailers online, including Gaiam and Amazon, the mats come in a variety of colors and start at $58. If that seems a bit pricey, remember you’re doing the planet (and your living room) a huge favor.