Door Stops

Door stops keep a door open at the angle you want, prevent slamming when the wind catches it, and protect the wall behind from handle damage. Although generally a functional item that does its job in the background, they do sit in full view - and so come in a range of designs, from cast iron dachshunds to polished marble hemispheres to magnetic wall-mounted mechanisms.

Weighted floor stop are the most common type of door stop. Fabric-covered designs filled with sand or grain are the most decorative of these, often coming in animal motifs, embroidered patterns or novelty character forms that make them popular as small gifts. Fabric door stops in neutral tones like grey, black and white blend into most hallways, although you'll find many brighter colours and more playful designs too. For heavier doors, cast iron, brass, stone and marble stops offer more reliable holding power. These materials also tend to read as more considered pieces of decor, sitting naturally alongside other hallway furniture rather than hiding behind the door.

Fixed designs work quite differently, catching the door mechanically rather than relying on weight. Magnetic stops use a small floor or wall plate that the door catches against at a chosen angle. Spring and rubber buffers mounted at skirting board level protect the wall from handle damage without taking up any floor space at all, and hinge-mounted stops, which slip directly onto the door hinge, are the most unobtrusive option. Adhesive and self-stick versions of several of these suit rented homes where drilling is not an option.

At Flitch, you can browse door stops from more than 100 UK retailers in a single search. Use filters to narrow by material, colour and price, and the price history on each design helps you decide when to buy. Our expert stylists are available if you want advice on coordinating a decorative stop with the wider room scheme.

How heavy should a door stop be?

Most internal doors need a stop weighing 1.5 to 3kg to stay put. Heavier external, oak or solid wood doors call for 3 to 5kg or more. Lighter decorative stops work for cottage-style doors but may shift on heavier panels.

Can door stops be used on fire doors?

No. Fire doors must close automatically and weighted stops compromise that function. Only approved electromagnetic stops linked to the fire alarm should be used, since they release the door when an alarm sounds.

Are door stops safe in homes with small children and pets?

Most weighted and wall-mounted door stops are safe, but soft fabric or rubber designs without small removable parts are the better choice in homes with crawling children or chewing pets. Avoid novelty door stops with detachable beads, buttons or magnetic pieces.

Do door stops scratch the floor?

Quality door stops should have rubber, felt or silicone bases that protect the floor and prevent slipping. Lower-cost designs with bare metal bases can mark hardwood and tile, so check the underside before buying.