Naturally harvested coir fibers are hand woven in traditional looms and then sheared to create a dense pile that helps trap dirt and moisture and clean shoes. Elegant designs are hand stenciled on the doormat using fade-resistant dyes. Vinyl backing keeps the mat in place and locks the fibers in to minimize shedding. Coir fiber is naturally mold and mildew-resistant. Handmade from renewable resource coconut husks, coir mats are environment friendly with a minimal carbon footprint. They are completely bio-degradable 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 doormats are excessively exposed to the elements, some color transfer may occur onto natural stone, concrete, or other surfaces and stenciled designs may eventually fade. The texture of the fibers is normal and adds a special character to each individual doormat. During the first few weeks, it is normal for a coir doormat to shed fibers.