How To Clean Your Car Floor Mats
The mats on the floor of the car seem to get so out of hand with girt and grime. In the summer it is mud that takes over while the winter brings wet snow and rock salt that leaves stains on your floor mats.
Cleaning your floor mats often helps to make them last longer and get rid of the dirt and grime that will get all over anything you sit on the floor of your car.
What do you need to clean car floor mats?
To clean car floor mats, you will need a few basic items: a vacuum cleaner, a stiff-bristled brush, a mild detergent or carpet cleaner, a bucket or container for mixing the cleaning solution, and a hose or a bucket of water for rinsing the mats.
You may also want to use a protectant or conditioner specifically designed for use on car floor mats to help protect them from future stains.
How to clean car floor mats
Step 1: Remove the mats from the car and shake them off to remove any loose dirt or debris. This can be done easily by hand or by using a mat-beating tool to remove any deep-seated dirt.
Step 2: Use a vacuum cleaner to remove any remaining dirt or debris. Be sure to use the attachments to get into the nooks and crannies of the mats. This is a great time to vacuum inside your car as well to get the areas under the mats.
Step 3: Apply the cleaning solution, mix a small amount of mild detergent or carpet cleaner with water in a bucket or container.
Use a stiff-bristled brush to apply the cleaning solution to the mats, working in small sections. Be sure to scrub the mats thoroughly, paying extra attention to any stained or soiled areas.
Step 4: Rinse the mats thoroughly with a hose or bucket of water to remove any remaining cleaning solution and dirt. Make sure to rinse out both sides of the mats and all the nooks and crannies.
Step 5: Dry the mats and place the mats in a well-ventilated area to dry. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as this can cause the mats to fade or become stiff. Once the mats are completely dry, replace them in the car.
Step 6: (Optional) Apply protectant, An optional step is to use a protectant or conditioner specifically designed for use on car floor mats to help protect them from future stains and make them look new. Use it following the instructions on the product.
Rubber vs cloth floor mats
Rubber floor mats are typically made of a durable, waterproof material that is easy to clean and maintain. They can be wiped down with a damp cloth or hose, and can also be scrubbed with a brush and soap or cleaner to remove tough stains. Rubber floor mats are also resistant to most chemicals and can withstand heavy use.
Cloth floor mats, on the other hand, are usually made of a more delicate material that is not as resistant to water and chemicals. They may become discolored or damaged if exposed to too much moisture or harsh cleaning agents.
To clean cloth floor mats, it is best to vacuum them first to remove any loose dirt or debris, and then use a mild detergent and water to spot clean any stains. They can also be put in the washing machine if they are machine washable and it is recommended to air dry them.
Overall, rubber floor mats are more durable and easy to clean, while cloth floor mats require more delicate care and cleaning.
How to protect your cars floor mats
There are several things you can do to help protect your floor mats and make them last longer and make them easier to clean.
Regular cleaning: To keep your car’s floor mats in good condition, it is important to vacuum and wipe them down regularly to remove dirt, debris, and spills. This will help prevent stains and odors from setting in.
Use a floor mat protector: A floor mat protector is a clear plastic film that is placed on top of the floor mat to protect it from spills and stains. These are easy to install and remove, and can be trimmed to fit any size or shape of floor mat.
Use a specific type of mats: Some floor mats are made of materials that are more resistant to stains and wear, such as rubber or vinyl. These can be good options for those who are looking for a more durable and easy-to-clean floor mat.
Regular maintenance: check for damage and wear regularly and replace them if needed.
Keeping the car clean: keeping the car clean overall can help protect the floor mats as well, keeping it dry and not carrying big loads that might scratch the mats in the long term.
