I seem to have read on LaurelBernInteriors blog that she recommend using Sea Grass as other sisal type product cannot be cleaned but Sea Grass can be.....wool is also a go material as the naturaol oils resist dirt.

Jute does not do well in high traffic areas or where there is the opportunity for moisture such as wet shoes and boots. There are some beautiful machine made broadlooms that mimic sisal and jute but stand up beautifully. You can choose from a wide variety of binding materials, colours and sizes.