Home » Anti fatigue mats » Do your feet ache after standing for hours on end? Well, fear not my friends, for the solution to your fatigue woes is here – anti-fatigue mats! But wait, before you go out and buy the first mat you see, let me give you some tips on how to choose the correct one. Because let’s face it, not all mats are created equal. You don’t want to end up with a mat that’s as useful as a chocolate teapot. So, sit back, relax, and let me guide you through the world of anti-fatigue mats. Trust me, your feet will thank you.
What is an Anti fatigue mat?
Well, it is a specially constructed mat that can be very useful in fighting against the fatigue that is caused by standing for prolonged hours on concrete or hardwood floors.
If you are buying an anti fatigue mat for the first time and don’t know “how to choose right anti fatigue mats?”
It won’t be a problem for you if you go through this detailed guide and follow the instructions while choosing the mats.
How to Choose the perfect Anti Fatigue Mat for Standing Desk and Kitchen?
Here we are listing down some important factors that you should consider while buying the perfect anti-fatigue mats for standing desks or at home.
1. Thickness
The number one factor in choosing an anti fatigue mat is its thickness. You should make sure that the mat you are buying for your office or kitchen is not too thick or thin. The thickness of most of the mats that you will find both online and offline is 3/4 inches. The 3/4″ anti fatigue mat is ideal for concrete, cement, and hardwood floors, whereas, for soft flooring, a 1/2 inches mat is sufficient.
2. Size
Like all other mats available in the market, anti fatigue mats are also available in different shapes and sizes. Some of the most commonly available sizes are 2×3 feet, 3×5 feet, 3×12 feet, and 3×60 feet. We recommend you buy a mat that is bigger in size because you can move and work without getting your feet off it. Size also depends upon the workspace. If the place you are working in is congested, then you should go for the mat that can easily be adjusted in the limited space.
3. Materials
The material of anti-fatigue mats matters a lot. I hope you don’t want to install a standing mat that releases bad odors or is made of any toxic material that is bad for your health in the long run. Rubber mats and carpeting materials are the most common materials that are used in the construction of fatigue, reducing mats. Here you need to apply a simple formula; choose the one that gives maximum comfort to your feet.
4. Waterproof
Waterproofing is an essential factor to look for while choosing an anti-fatigue mat, but it depends on the scenario in which you are going to use it. If you are buying a mat for office, then you can ignore this feature, but for the kitchen floor, you should ensure that the standing mat is waterproof.
5. Slip Resistant
Last but not least, slip-resistant is another important factor to consider when you are buying anti fatigue mat for the kitchen or standing desk. Most of the high quality mats have a non-skid backing that prevents you from tripping while working or cooking.
To put a nut in a shell, the material, and thickness of anti-fatigue mats play a vital role in providing relief to foot, knee, and back pain.
How to Choose Anti-Fatigue Mats for the Kitchen?
What’s the place where ladies do the magic? Well, obviously the kitchen!
While making meals for your family or the lunchbox for your husband and children, it gets tiring to stand. Even if you have got an Anti-fatigue mat, it does not ensure perfect working unless you choose the one wisely.
While choosing the correct Anti-fatigue mats for the kitchen, keep in mind the flooring environment. The floors of the kitchen are mostly wet and sometimes oily too.
Make sure to select a mat that is not affected by water or oil. The mat should also be firm so that it doesn’t get slipped if the floor is wet.
How to Choose Anti-Fatigue Mats for Office?
For this, I shall prefer to mention some statistical data taken from different sources. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics underwent a survey in 2016, focusing on the timing of a worker standing and sitting. The survey results were contrary to what we usually expect. It came out that an average worker in America spends 39% of his time in the office sitting, while the remaining 61% is standing.
The jobs that require the most standing include jobs in food service, cleaning, and retail. A standing workstation helps in changing your standing positions and improving your health. But overdoing it brings fatigue.
If you want to reduce fatigue that occurs due to standing, you should get a thick anti-fatigue mat for a standing desk. The correct anti fatigue mat can increase the time you can stand at your standing desk without having severe fatigue.
How to Choose Anti Fatigue Mats for Shops?
As discussed earlier, a large number of jobs require their employees to be standing for a long time. Talking particularly about the shops, barbers, hairstylists, shopkeepers of a store, dog groomers, etc. spend almost their whole workday on their feet.
These working conditions can be trouble if not properly taken care of. Obviously, these jobs cannot be done while sitting, so other options are checked.
Workers at shops should choose a stylish, thick, and non-toxic anti fatigue mat.
Why Do You Need Anti Fatigue Mat?
As the name suggests, these mats are solely for the purpose of reducing fatigue and pains in the lower limbs of the body that happens due to standing for a long time. One other option that most people consider is the use of soft and comfy shoes. It also helps in this regard. But in the long run, standing desk mats have proven to be the most effective solution yet.
Other Health Tips for Standing Desk Employees
- Alternatively changing standing positions
One should organize his/her work in such a way that he/she has to change position.
- Footwear
You can also use shoes that provide cushioning under the heel. It helps in reducing heel fatigue and increases the time for comfortable standing while working.
- Flooring
The type of flooring has a significant impact on the comfort of workers. Especially if the floor is hard as concrete, it will provide the least support and increase fatigue. Flooring at working places should be of wood or rubber, any material that provides a gentle impact on the feet while walking or standing.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How thick should an Anti-fatigue mat be?
The optimum thickness of an Anti-fatigue mat should be 3/4 inches, as it provides the correct results. If your floor is not hard, 0.5 inches mat would be sufficient.
2. Do I need an Anti-fatigue mat?
When your floor and shoes do not provide enough comfort to your feet, it is time to use an anti-fatigue mat. Also if you are suffering from knee and heel pain, these mats can help in reducing it.
3. How long does an Anti-fatigue mat last?
Most Anti-fatigue mats last between 1 and 3 years. Overall there is no general rule of thumb for the lifespan of an Anti-fatigue mat.
Final Words
Choosing the right anti-fatigue mat is no laughing matter. But that doesn’t mean we can’t have a little fun with it. Remember, when selecting your mat, consider the size, thickness, and material. And don’t forget to think about the color and design – after all, you’ll be staring at it all day! But most importantly, don’t be afraid to get creative. Maybe you want a mat with a picture of your favorite celebrity or a motivational quote to keep you going.
Whatever you choose, just make sure it’s comfortable and supportive. Because let’s face it, nobody wants to be the office clown with sore feet. MatsCorner.Com will keep you posted about the latest tips, guides, and reviews of the perfect anti fatigue mats.
