Naturally harvested coir fibers are hand-woven using traditional looms and then sheared to create a dense pile that helps to trap dirt and moisture and to clean shoes. Elegant designs are hand stenciled on the mat using fade-resistant dyes. Heavy coir backing keeps the mat in place and locks the fibers in to minimize shedding. Coir fiber is naturally mold and mildew-resistant. Handmade from coir fibers, a renewable resource, coir mats are environmentally friendly and made with a minimal carbon footprint. Coir mats are completely biodegradable and compostable. For optimal results, the manufacturer suggests using this doormat in a sheltered area such as a covered porch, and keeping exposure to extreme moisture and sunlight to a minimum. If the mats are excessively exposed to the elements, some color transfer may occur onto natural stone, concrete, or other surfaces and stenciled designs may eventually fade. Slight variations in size, color, and texture of the fibers are normal and add a special character to each individual mat. During the first few weeks, it is normal for the coir doormat to shed fibers.