How To Clean Car Mats

News & Events - 28/05/2024

Your car mats get used every time you step into your vehicle, so it’s natural that they will gradually accumulate dirt. Other than just normal debris that comes off your shoes, they are also liable to stains from your to-go cup of coffee or a stray piece of food.

To keep them looking in pristine shape, we at Grand Wash Auto advise giving them regular cleans, to not let any stains build up and worsen over time. To help with this, we have developed some easy suggestions that will make the floor of your car look like it’s straight out of the dealership.

How To Clean Car Mats At Home

Vacuum Your Car Mats

Before anything else,  grab your car mats and give them a thorough shake over an area you don’t mind getting a bit dirty. This initial step ensures that before we dive into the deep clean all loose and excess dirt that has built up on the mat is removed. 

Next up is vacuuming your mats. It’s crucial to vacuum before washing, as scrubbing can embed dirt deeper into the mat fibres. 

If your home vacuum has the option for an upholstery attachment, that’s ideal; if not, a regular vacuum should do the trick to suck up any remaining dirt. If the vacuum you have at home isn’t fit for this task, consider visiting us at Grand Wash Auto– there, you can use car-specific vacuums free of charge with every car wash.

Scrub Your Car Mats

Now it’s time to tackle those mats with a little bit of elbow grease! For this step, you’ll need some dish soap and a bucket of lukewarm water. If the stains on your car mat are particularly persistent, a bit of vinegar or baking soda can give your scrub an extra punch. 

We recommend steering clear of harsh chemicals such as bleach or ammonia to avoid damage. 

Dip your car mat into your bucket of soapy water and use a soft brush to scrub in circular motions. Get into all the nooks and crannies for a thorough clean. Rinse and repeat until you have given all your car mats a deep clean.

Give Extra Attention To Stubborn Stains

Didn’t get all of the stains out on your first try? The next step is to apply a spot cleaner or a pre-treatment spray designed for laundry to any persistent stains. Let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing again.

Rinse & Dry Off Your Car Mats

After giving your mats a deep scrub, it’s time to rinse them thoroughly. Use a hose with high pressure to ensure you wash away all the soap residue. Once they’re clean, set them aside to air dry in a well-ventilated spot. 

While the temptation might be to leave your car mats in the driveway to dry quickly, we’d advise against leaving them in direct sunlight, as this can cause their colour to fade.

Last Steps

If your mats have metal parts, wipe them down with a cloth dipped in mild detergent to prevent dirt buildup. Once clean and dry, place your mats back in the car and enjoy!

Cleaning your car mats is straightforward and keeps your car’s interior fresh and tidy. By following these steps, your mats will be spotless and ready for whatever comes their way!

Questions You Might Have On Cleaning Car Mats

Can I Put My Car Mat In The Washing Machine?

Generally, it’s best to avoid tossing your car mats into the washing machine, as there is a chance it could damage or affect their shape. That’s why we always opt for a good old-fashioned hand wash. This way you can control the clean at each step of the process.

Are There Any Alternatives For Baking Soda and Vinegar?

Absolutely! If you don’t have any baking soda or vinegar in the pantry, you can always try out lemon juice and water, or if you’re looking for a more earthy substitute, some people have had success with a few drops of tea tree oil solution.

What Should I Avoid When Cleaning My Floor Mats?

– Find the balance between thorough scrubbing and aggressive scrubbing. While you do want to make sure you give your mats a deep clean, be sure not to scrub so fiercely that it causes fraying or tearing on the mat’s surface.

– Rushing the process. While it can be tempting to try and get your mats clean as quickly as possible, be sure to give each step the adequate time required. For instance, if you don’t let your mats dry out properly, they can start to smell or even worse begin to mould.

When Should I Get New Car Mats?

Over time, even well-cleaned car floor mats can wear out. If you notice fraying edges, holes, or persistent odours and stains that don’t come out despite your best efforts, it might be time to invest in a new set of mats. This is a clear sign they’re past their prime and ready for a replacement.

Looking for a complete car clean that will leave your vehicle looking brand new? Visit Grand Wash Auto in Thornbury for a revolutionary express wash that combines speed, convenience, and eco-friendly technology, ensuring a spotless shine every time.