How To Clean Car Mats?

Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Matthew Lloyd

Cleaning your car mats is essential for maintaining its interior appearance and keeping yourself safe from dirt, grime, mud, and other deposits. While there are a few different methods for cleaning your car mats, the best way to clean car mats is to use vinegar or a dishwasher.

Vinegar is a natural antiseptic that can remove dirt, grime, grease, and oil from the surface of your car mats. This is best for cloth car mats. Dishwashing detergent is excellent for removing tougher stains and will also help break down any dirt build-up on your rubber car mats.

Why Is It Important To Clean Car Mats?

• Clean car mats help maintain your interior appearance and keep you safe from dirt, grime, mud, and other deposits.
• Regular cleaning of car mats helps keep the floor under them clean and free of dirt build-up, which can damage carpets or cause foul odors.
• Keeping your car mats clean prevents the spread of germs and bacteria.
• Clean car mats make your vehicle look more presentable and can even boost its value.
• Clean car mats prevent dirt, grime, mud, and other deposits from getting into the cabin of your vehicle, which can cause damage to upholstery and other interior surfaces.

Cleaning Car Mats

You Will Need

• Vacuum Cleaner
• Dishwashing Detergent Or Vinegar
• Soft-Bristled Brush
• Sponge Or Cloth
• Bucket/Bowl Of Warm Water
• Hose

Instructions

Remove The Car Mats: 

Remove the car mats and remove any dirt and debris.

Vacuum: 

Use a vacuum cleaner to remove dirt and dust from the mats.

Pre-Rinse: 

Rinse the mats thoroughly with a hose to remove any surface dirt and debris.

Clean The Car Mats:

• For cloth mats, mix vinegar with warm water in a bucket or bowl. Soak a clean sponge or cloth into this mixture, wring out the excess liquid, and scrub the mats to remove dirt and grime. Rinse them clean with a hose or bucket of warm water.

• For rubber mats, mix dishwashing detergent into some warm water in a bucket. Use a soft-bristled brush to work up a lather on the mats. Scrub the mats and rinse them with a hose or warm water.

Dry The Mats: 

Leave the car mats in a sunny area until completely dry. This can take several hours, depending on the temperature and humidity.

Replace The Car Mats: 

Once completely dry, replace the mats in the appropriate locations on your vehicle.

Quick Fixers

• Carpet shampoo or upholstery cleaner can be used for tougher stains on cloth mats.
• A power washer can help remove tough stains or dirt build-up from rubber mats.
• Before vacuuming, baking soda can be sprinkled onto the mats to help absorb odors and moisture.
• An automotive vacuum cleaner may also be used to remove dirt from car mats more quickly and efficiently.
• If you want an extra layer of protection for your car mats, consider using a protective spray, such as a sealant designed especially for carpets and upholstery.
• Finally, if all else fails, a professional car detailing service can be hired to help clean your car mats thoroughly and safely.

Treat Stains

• Grease and oil stains can be removed by applying liquid dish soap to the area and allowing it to sit for a few minutes before scrubbing with a brush or sponge.
• For tougher stains, use an upholstery cleaner designed specifically for car mats.
• Coffee or tea spills should be blotted immediately with a clean towel. Soak the area with cold water, and then use a cleaning solution designed for carpets or upholstery to remove any remaining stains.
• If you have pet stains on your car mats, blot the area before applying a carpet cleaner. Rinse thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.
• If you have stubborn stains that won’t come out, try using a mix of water and vinegar to help break down the stain before applying a carpet cleaner specifically designed for tough stains.
• For deep-set odors, sprinkle baking soda over the affected area before vacuuming it. This will help absorb any odors that may be lingering on the mats.

Tips To Keep Your Car Mats Clean

• Regularly vacuum your mats to remove surface dirt and debris.
• Spot clean stains as soon as possible before they set in.
• Place rubber, vinyl, or custom molded mats outside the vehicle on wet days to prevent dirt and moisture from getting inside your vehicle’s cabin.
• Replace car mats that are worn out and no longer functional.
• Regularly clean the floor of your vehicle to prevent dirt and debris from transferring onto the car mats.
• Use automotive vacuum cleaners for a more efficient cleaning job.
• Store car mats in a cool, dry place when not in use.
• It is always best to hang it to air dry.

FAQs

Can You Machine Wash Car Mats?

Yes, most car mats can be machine-washed. However, it is best to check the instructions on the product label to ensure that your particular set of car mats is safe for machine-washing. If not, hand washing is recommended.

How Often Should You Clean Your Car Mats?

Ideally, you should clean your car mats once a week to keep them looking their best.

How Can You Get Rid Of Stains From Car Mats?

The best way to remove stains from car mats is by spot cleaning with carpet shampoo or upholstery cleaner . If the stain persists, use a power washer and detergent solution to help loosen and remove stubborn stains.

Conclusion

Car mats are essential for keeping your vehicle looking new and ensuring that dirt, mud, and other debris do not accumulate inside. It is important to clean them regularly to keep mats in tip-top shape. You easily maintain your car mats and keep them looking their best for years. You can keep your vehicle’s interior looking great with a little effort and the right cleaning supplies.