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Dycem outperforms shoe covers in every metric—from capture rates to cost savings.
Dycem vs Shoe Covers: Why switch?
Shoe covers may seem like a quick fix, but they fall short in high-traffic environments. They are often improperly fitted or worn inconsistently, reducing their effectiveness. They also contribute to significant single-use plastic waste, increase costs over time, and pose a risk of cross-contamination.
Dycem contamination control mats provide a proven, long-term solution that lasts over 3 years, trapping up to 99.9% of contaminants from shoes and wheels, and up to 75% of airborne particles, reducing contamination right at the source. Organizations switch to Dycem from shoe covers, or use Dycem alongside them, because they need reliable, consistent floor-level contamination control that meets the highest standards without the waste, mess, or maintenance.
Dycem vs Shoe Covers
Dycem doesn’t just compete with sticky mats; we outperform them by delivering up to 99% contamination control in an effective, long-lasting, and sustainable way.
Features | Dycem | Sticky Mats |
---|---|---|
Performance | Up to 99.9% effective | Unknown |
Reusable | Lasts 3+ years | Frequently replaced |
Customizable | Yes | No |
Compatible with Wheeled Traffic | Yes | No |
Warranty | 1-Year | No |
Professionally Installed | Yes | No |
Antimicrobial Technology | Protected by Biomaster | No |

Captures up to 99.9% of floor-level contamination
Unlike disposable shoe covers, Dycem is scientifically proven to capture up to 99.9% of contamination from both feet and wheels. Its naturally tacky, smooth surface attracts, captures, and retains particles, helping to keep them out of your controlled environment.

3+ year average lifespan
Dycem’s washable surface allows for easy maintenance; regular cleaning restores its tacky polymer layer to maintain optimal performance. With correct upkeep, Dycem typically lasts 3 to 5 years.

Antimicrobial technology
All Dycem products incorporate Biomaster, an antimicrobial additive that uses silver ion technology to proactively inhibit and disrupt the growth of microorganisms, including Salmonella, Listeria, and E. coli.
Dycem is the cleanroom flooring trusted by Alcon, NHS, and many more.
“
The finish with Dycem inlaid into the vinyl is excellent. With large amounts of traffic within the aseptic unit, the flooring system ensures a consistent C/D environment.
Martin Rees-Milton
NHS
“
A true game changer for controlling and preventing contamination from entering critical areas.
Dhaval Patel
Alcon
“
The Dycem mats have been an integral part of our microbial control strategy and have allowed us to improve control over time by adding mats in areas with higher hits.