I have sewing rooms in two houses. One has a hard surface and the other one carpet. I much prefer a hard surface. I have to set my foot control on a hard surface in the carpeted room or it overheats because there is no circulation of air around it even though it has little feet on it. The carpet is too plush. This room also serves as the guest room otherwise I would take the carpet out. I have gel mats in the kitchen. I believe they came from Sam's Club but I've seen them other places too like office supply stores.