Factors To Evaluate In Anti Fatigue Matting
November 29th, 2011
Anti fatigue mats are intended to reduce the back, knee and foot pain people standing for long periods of time sometimes suffer. Sometimes referred to as ergonomic or stress-reducing mats, anti fatigue mats are often used in factories and similar industrial settings, but they can also be used in the kitchens of homes. They're especially popular for kitchens with cement, wood or ceramic tile floors, which are harder than cushioned vinyl flooring. They are frequently made of rubber, vinyl and, occasionally, foam.
Several types of mats with different features are on today's market, and the wide array of choices might be a bit confusing. The points to consider that are mentioned below could help when you're purchasing anti fatigue mats.
Choosing the Mat's Material
It's important to know the advantages and drawbacks of each type of material that can be used to make anti fatigue mats. Rubber, foam, vinyl and carpet are all different, and you might prefer one material over another. Rubber Mats are easier to wash than mats made of other materials, but rubber mats with grid patterns are frequently difficult to clean. Rubber mats with an interlocking design are also hard to clean, and the color choices might be limited. Foam or vinyl-covered mats, in contrast, can be wiped clean easily with a cloth.
Choosing the Mat's Density and Thickness
A thicker, denser mat will give you better support – and the more support the better. You might initially be tempted to buy a mat that feels soft. Remember, though, that if you stand on the mat a long time, you might find yourself balancing on it, and that can be extremely tiring. But, if you don't stand on your mat for extremely long periods, a marble-patterned or vinyl-covered anti fatigue mat should do nicely. Kitchen mats designed to combat fatigue should not be too thick or too thin, or they could cause you to slip, trip or fall. A thickness of 3/8" to 1" is recommended for kitchen mats.
Size and Shape Matter
Mats used in industrial settings are often square or long runners. However, the perfect size for anti fatigue mats used in the kitchen is 2 x 3 feet long. Simply measure the size of the area where you typically stand and bring that measurement along while you're shopping.
It's All a Balancing Act
The ideal anti-fatigue kitchen mats provide the perfect balance between stability and instability. The mat you choose should give you a slight amount of instability, which will encourage you to shift your position. Small posture changes are important to maintain proper circulation during long periods of standing. A slight bit of instability will also help prevent discomfort arising from over-fatigued foot muscles and pressure points.
Responding to Movements
Quality anti-fatigue mats do not shift their position easily as you move. A mat that responds too much to movements will tend to create a slippery layer of dust. Lightweight mats that move excessively are also the type that would be most likely to cause a slip or fall.
Identifying the right anti fatigue mats is usually a matter of finding the right design, material and durability, but your preferences are also important.