From October to May, the entry takes the beating. The goal is to stop grit at the door, because grit is what scratches oak and dulls tile.
Two mats: a coarse scraper outside, an absorbent washable runner inside, both wide enough that nobody has to aim. A boot tray with river stones drains and looks intentional.
Sweep or vacuum the entry every couple of days; mop weekly with a wood-safe cleaner. Never leave standing water on hardwood.
If you have pets, a small towel on a hook by the door changes everything.
