So, funny story—last Halloween I put out this brand-new witchy doormat, and within about ten minutes my dog tracked mud all over it. Classic. Still, every trick-or-treater that came up to the door commented on it, so I guess muddy witches are still witches. Point is: the doormat is the first thing people notice when they come over, especially on Halloween. It sets the mood before they even knock.
Let me walk you through some of my favorite finds—some are spooky, some are silly, and a few are downright “Grandma, cover your eyes.”
1. The “I Smell Children” Mat
You know the line. If you don’t, I’m not sure we can be friends (kidding… sort of). It’s the “Hocus Pocus” classic, stamped in bold letters across a coir mat. I put one out once, and every parent who dropped off kids did a double-take, half chuckling, half side-eyeing me. It’s witchy humor without scaring the toddlers.
2. The Cute Ghost Welcome
Okay, not all Halloween has to be jump-scare territory. There are these mats with big, goofy ghost faces that basically say “Boo!” but in the way your grandma might say it. Kids love them, and it keeps things light. (Also, pro tip: the white prints on these mats actually hide powdered sugar if you’ve been baking… ask me how I know.)
3. Horror Movie Throwbacks
Ever had Jason or Freddy stare up at you while you’re fumbling for your keys? I have. It’s… unsettling. These mats are perfect if you secretly (or not so secretly) want to show off your scary-movie obsession. Guests either laugh nervously or say, “Nope, not stepping on that.”
4. The Ouija Board One
Listen, I know, I know—you’re not supposed to mess with Ouija boards. But on a doormat? It’s kind of brilliant. All the letters and “YES/NO” are printed out, and the whole thing looks like it belongs in a Victorian séance. Half my friends think it’s cool, the other half refuse to walk over it. Which, honestly, makes it even funnier.
5. “Not All Witches Live in Salem”
This one always makes me smirk. It’s sassy without trying too hard. Put it down and you’re basically saying, “Yep, witches are everywhere—maybe even in this house.” Cue the neighbor’s raised eyebrow.
6. Dancing Skeletons
Skeletons are like the little black dress of Halloween—you can never go wrong. I’ve seen mats where the skeletons are cha-cha-ing, others where they’re just standing there like they’ve had a long day. Either way, it’s a classic. And somehow the bones don’t fade in the sun, which feels a little ironic.
7. “Definitely Not a Trap Door”
Okay, this one kills me. You lay it down, and people instantly stop, look at the ground, and go, “Wait, should I…?” It’s pure prankster energy. Ten out of ten recommend if you enjoy making your Amazon delivery guy chuckle.
8. Pumpkin Patch Designs
Sometimes simple is best. Big orange pumpkins, little patch scenes—basically fall in doormat form. I like layering one of these with a bigger plaid mat underneath (yes, I’m that person). It just feels cozy, like apple cider and crunchy leaves.
9. Spider Web Vibes
Now, these can actually be gorgeous. Black mats with silver spider webs spun across them—kind of elegant in a haunted-mansion way. Throw in a fake spider or two for bonus points. Just don’t forget where you put them, or you’ll scream at your own handiwork later.
10. Witchy Cauldrons & Potions
If your Halloween leans more “magical apothecary” than “blood and guts,” this is your lane. Cauldrons bubbling over, spell books open—it’s basically inviting your guests in for a potion (which, let’s be real, might just be mulled wine).
11. “Hello Pumpkin”
Sweet, simple, and—dare I say—wholesome. It’s less spooky, more “Welcome to our autumn wonderland.” The kind of mat that makes you want to bake a pie and host family movie night.
12. Black Cat Crossing
Classic. Mysterious little feline silhouettes, tails up like they’re about to dart into trouble. If you’ve ever had a black cat cross your path in real life, you know the mix of bad-luck chills and “aww, kitty!” this brings.
13. Haunted House Scenes
I love these. They’re like mini storyboards at your feet—spindly trees, looming mansions, bats against a full moon. Step on it and you almost expect a creaky door sound effect to play.
14. Candy Corn Chaos
Say what you will about candy corn (people either love it or… passionately don’t), but it screams Halloween. A mat with bright yellow, orange, and white stripes just feels cheerful, like the holiday version of confetti.
15. Custom Name Mats
Here’s where you really show off. Imagine: “The Johnsons’ Haunted House” right at the doorstep. I had one made once, and my mailman said it was “the most extra thing he’d seen all week.” Worth it.
Final Thoughts
A Halloween doormat isn’t just for wiping your shoes—it’s the little drumroll before the big reveal of your decorations inside. Pick one that makes you laugh, or spook your friends, or just makes your porch feel festive. And hey, worst case? Even if your dog tracks mud all over it, at least it’ll be a muddy Halloween mat. That’s still on theme, right?
