Car Floor Mats: Care & Maintenance

The Ultimate Guide to Cleaning Your Car Floor Mats

Hey there, auto enthusiasts! Let’s talk about a subject that doesn’t often get the attention it deserves: your car floor mats.These brave defenders of your vehicle’s interior are always there, silently taking on whatever dirt and debris our shoes drag in and whatever mess our on-the-go snacking can create. From the annoying little crumbs to the dreaded coffee spills, your car floor mats face them all like unsung heroes. Today, we’re going to celebrate these stalwarts with an ultimate guide on how to clean car floor mats and restore that fresh, out-of-the-showroom vibe.

How do I clean Car Floor Mat

The Daily Grind on Your Car Floor Mats

Read NEXT: The Importance of Fuel Injector Service”

Before we dive into the cleaning methods, let’s appreciate the hard work our mats put in. Whether they’re rubber or cloth, these sturdy floor guardians collect a massive amount of residue day after day. From dust and dirt to spilled food and drinks, not to mention random debris from pockets, bags, and boxes, our mats see it all.

Rubber vs Cloth Car Floor Mats

When it comes to the world of car floor mats, there are two main players: rubber and cloth. Each type has its own cleaning requirements, so let’s look at them separately.

Are rubber car floor mats better

Sprucing up Your Rubber Car Floor Mats

Rubber floor mats are typically found in cars braving colder climates where rain and snow are frequent visitors. They are your car interior’s frontline defense, keeping moisture damage at bay and drying out quickly. However, they’re not immune to the accumulation of dust and dirt. Here’s a quick six-step clean-up for your rubber mats:

Step 1: Evacuate the Vehicle!

First things first, get those mats out of your car. You’re about to introduce them to a good deal of water and cleaning products, and your car interior does not want to be part of that party.

Step 2: A Good Old Fashioned Whack

Give your mat a firm whack against a hard surface. This will dislodge any stubborn debris. For the really tough bits, a scraper is your trusty sidekick.

Can I Power wash Car Floor Mats

Step 3: Water Jet Action

Armed with a pressurized water hose, it’s time to rinse away any loose dirt or crumbs. Remember, you’re only interested in the dirty side, leave the innocent side alone!

Step 4: Enter the Soap

Now, get a rag or spray and introduce some soap to the floor mat. Usually, soap and water are all it takes to wash off the grime. You can also use wipes, hand sanitizer, or even a mix of baking soda and soap for a thorough cleanse.

Step 5: Rinse and Repeat

Grab the hose once more and rinse away the soap. Make sure no soapy residue is left behind.

Step 6: Air Dry for the Win

Now, let the mats dry completely before they re-enter your car. Find a suitable spot to hang them for a natural air dry.

 

Bringing Back the Shine to Your Cloth Car Floor Mats

CHECK OUT THE VIDEO BELOW FOR AN IN-DEPTH EXPLANATION

 

Cleaning cloth car floor mats requires a bit more elbow grease. If they’ve been wet for some time, you might even notice a musty smell. Here’s your step-by-step guide to refresh your cloth mats:

Step 1: Clear the Deck

Just like their rubber counterparts, cloth mats also need to exit the vehicle before the cleaning process begins.

Step 2: Vacuum Magic

Time to unleash the power of the vacuum cleaner. Make sure you vacuum both sides of the mat to pick up all the dirt and grime.

Step 3: Baking Soda to the Rescue

Baking soda not only removes stains but also battles unpleasant odors. Rub it into the mat or create a mixture with water and scrub away the dirt with a stiff brush.

Step 4: The Soapy Solution

Now you can introduce a soapy substance to the mat. Whether it’s a homemade mixture, a spray cleaner, or even a steam cleaner, power wash, or washing machine, the aim is to get those mats spotless!

Step 5: Round Two for the Vacuum

Once the soap is thoroughly rinsed off, it’s time for the vacuum to step back into the ring. It will suck up any remaining dirt particles and some of the water too.

Step 6: Time to Dry

Finally, hang the mats out to dry or put them in a dryer. Make sure they’re entirely dry before placing them back in the car.

The Soap Opera: Choosing Your Cleaning Products

Finally, let’s talk about your soap options. Regular household items like laundry detergent, dish soap, or shampoo can work. Alternatively, automotive-specific carpet cleaners or a homemade concoction can do wonders. Here are a few of my recommendations:

Car Floor Mats Cleaning

Automotive Carpet Cleaners

These cleaners are specifically designed for car mats and are easily available at most automotive shops.

Blue Coral DC22 Upholstery Cleaner Dri-Clean Plus

This product really digs deep to pull out all those stubborn dirt particles. Plus, it has odor-eliminating tech and an integrated brush cap.

Car Guys Premium Super Cleaner

This water-based formula efficiently removes debris without leaving behind any residue or smell.

Turtle Wax T-246Ra Power Out! Upholstery Cleaner

With its built-in soil-repellent and odor-eliminating technology, this cleaner also offers a detachable scrub brush.

DIY Carpet Cleaner

For the do-it-yourself folks, here’s a simple recipe to try:

  • 3 tablespoons of grated soap
  • 2 tablespoons of Borax
  • 2 cups of boiling water
  • 10 drops of lavender essential oil for a pleasing scent (optional)

Just mix until it’s foamy, dip a stiff brush in, and you’re ready to scrub your mats to cleanliness!

With this guide, you’re all set to tackle your car floor mat cleaning like a pro. Remember, a clean car isn’t just about the exterior shine; the inside counts too! Until next time, drive safe and keep that car sparkling!

G&G Auto Repair

What our customers are saying...

Call Now Button