Cooling the Traditional Way: How Vetiver Mats Help Beat the Heat in India

In many parts of India, especially in hot and humid regions like the Konkan coast, summers can be intense. To beat the heat, people have long relied on natural cooling methods. One of the most traditional and eco-friendly solutions is the Vetiver Mat, also known as the Khus Mat. These mats are made from the dried roots of the vetiver plant and are known not just for their cooling ability but also for their earthy, refreshing smell.

What are Vetiver Mats?

Vetiver mats are made from the strong, fibrous roots of the vetiver plant, a tall grass that grows in India. The roots are cleaned, dried, and woven into mats by skilled artisans. These mats are usually hung on windows and doors during summer. When sprayed with water, they cool the air that passes through and add a natural fragrance to the room. In earlier times, they were a common sight in Indian homes, trains, shops, and even palaces.
The science behind vetiver mats is simple but effective. When the mats are moistened with water and warm air flows through them, the process of evaporation takes place. This draws heat out of the air, resulting in a cooler breeze entering the room. This natural cooling method works without electricity, making it both cost-effective and environment-friendly.

Additionally, vetiver roots have antibacterial and air-purifying properties, which help clean the air and reduce dust and odours inside the home. In regions like Konkan, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Rajasthan, vetiver mats were a regular part of daily life during the summer. Families would wet the mats in the evening, letting the cool breeze flow into their homes as temperatures dropped. These mats were also used as floor coverings, fans, and even in water containers to keep drinking water naturally cool. Vetiver was not limited to mats; it was present in cooling drinks like khus sharbat and perfumes like itra, especially during festivals and special occasions.

Why the Practice is Declining

Despite all their benefits, vetiver mats are not commonly used today. With the rise of electric fans, air conditioners, and synthetic cooling systems, people have shifted to modern alternatives. Urban lifestyles and modern architecture don’t always allow for open spaces and ventilation-friendly designs, making natural cooling methods harder to use. At the same time, many artisans who once made these mats have left the craft because of low demand and poor income, leading to a decline in both skill and supply.

The good news is that there’s a growing awareness about sustainable living and the need to reduce energy use. Vetiver mats fit perfectly into this idea. They are biodegradable, reusable, and made from natural resources. Unlike air conditioners that use a lot of electricity and release harmful gases, vetiver mats offer a zero-energy, zero-waste alternative. Using them can help reduce your carbon footprint while also reconnecting you with traditional wisdom.
By bringing back the use of vetiver mats, we also support the artisans who keep this craft alive. Many small-scale communities still weave these mats, especially in parts of South and West India. Buying their products not only helps preserve an eco-friendly tradition but also strengthens rural economies. Reviving these mats can bring more income to artisans and encourage younger generations to learn the skill.

Sustainability in an Urban Sprawl

Even in modern cities, there’s room for vetiver mats. They can be used in balconies, reading corners, meditation rooms, and eco-friendly offices. Interior designers and boutique hotels have also started using them for their natural texture, subtle fragrance, and cultural charm. These mats add a unique touch to any space while keeping it cooler, without adding to the electricity bill. Using a vetiver mat at home is quite simple. Just hang it over a window or door where there is good airflow. During the hot hours of the day, sprinkle some water on it. You’ll soon notice the air coming in feels cooler and smells fresher.

To keep the mat in good shape, rinse it occasionally and dry it out properly to avoid mould or damage. With minimal care, a good-quality mat can last through many summers. Choosing to use a vetiver mat is a small change, but it can make a big impact. It’s good for the environment, great for your comfort, and helpful for communities that still depend on this craft. This summer, instead of increasing your electric bill, try switching to a vetiver mat. It’s a natural, simple, and effective way to beat the heat, just like people have done in India for centuries.

Indian Brands that sell Vetiver Mats 

Do you wish to adapt to a sustainable lifestyle, but don't know where to buy these Khus Mats? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. It is difficult to find khus mats, especially in metropolitan cities. However, these Indian brands sell a variety of sustainable products made out of the vetiver plant. Check out the brands below: 

Aayurarogyam 

Right from Khus curtains, Blinds, footwear, accessories, car seats, cushions, and more, Aayurarogyam has all things Khus. The brand aims to make sustainability accessible to city folks.

Khusplaza 

 For all things Khus, Khusplaza for good quality curtains and blinds. The brand also takes orders in bulk and customisations as well.

Indiamart

Indiamart needs to be your go-to for loose poppy seeds and khus, and also decorative mats made out of khus.

Khusmats

 And, lastly, Khusmats, a brand from Gujarat which specialises in Khus curtains and mats specifically.