Perfect for grilling planks, outdoor furniture, doghouses and more, chances are you're already a fan of cedar. But a lot of people overlook the doormat as an aesthetic object, opting instead for cheap or cheesy mats that fall apart. A cedar wood doormat brings not only an aromatic and natural beauty to your front step, it's also highly functional and gets shoes cleaner than other mats.

Most types of cedar wood doormat come with a separated multiple slat design affixed to three base boards underneath. This slat design serves a couple of purposes. First and foremost, it keeps sand, dirt and mud from entering your home by allowing grit and grime to fall in between the slats. Plus, the slats are spaced far enough apart that mud won't get stuck in the slats but rather fall through to the ground below. This makes these outside doormats perfect for the city, the country, or if you're lucky enough to live by the beach. The second purpose of these slats is to allow air to circulate around the mat so the wood dries quickly. Everyone at one time or another has had to deal with wet, rotted or warped wood. Needless to say, it's not a pretty picture. Plus, a wet mat means a slippery mat, and you don't want anyone taking a tumble at your expense.

There are also some fun add-ons to make your cedar wood doormat even better. For starters, many models come with an attachable nylon boot brush which affixes to the bottom of mats. Use this to scrape boots and shoes for any extra-tough mud that may have gotten stuck on. A second option is to personalize your cedar mat. Aside from the traditional ?welcome? slogan, a lot of companies give you the option of having your name engraved. Others can even engrave and paint on attractive images or patterns of your choosing.

But don't think that a cedar wood doormat is confined strictly to stoops and front porches. Use one out back on your deck or patio, by your hot tub, or even bring the mat inside to use with your bathroom shower. The traction provided is essential and will keep your tootsies off of the cold tiled floor.

Cedar in particular is the perfect wood for doormats for a variety of reasons. Most obvious is its pleasing rich reddish color and unique spicy aroma, although white cedar is an equally popular and attractive variety. There are also more functional benefits, too, in choosing cedar for outdoor construction projects. Cedar is an especially weather-resistant hardwood that will last for decades on end without decaying or splitting. After a time, unfinished cedar will adopt a naturally gray sheen, but many a cedar wood doormat will already come with a protective sealant which will help the wood retain its natural coloration. In addition, cedar, a member of the pine family, is indigenous to North America and can grow upwards of 100 feet tall. By purchasing a mat that was made by a native harvested tree, you'll be supporting national industry and helping with local jobs (which in this economy is a blessing indeed). Greet your guests in style with cedar.