Car floor mats are something we rarely think about, but they provide protection for your vehicle and should be shaken out and washed periodically. Since they’re often expensive we’d like to show you several different ways to clean them easily whether they’re rubber or cloth.
First and foremost, regardless of the type of floor mats used in your vehicle, you’ll want to remove them and place them on a clean, dry surface, such as a patio, paved drive, or garage floor.
If your floor mats look like this, you’ll love this simple DIY cleaning solution.
Here’s a shot of the after!
If your car mats are carpeted or have areas of carpet, use a shop vac to remove as much dust and dirt as possible before shampooing.
Rubber or Vinyl Car Floor Mat Cleaner
1/4 c. mild dishwashing detergent, we prefer to use Original Dawn
2 gallons of warm water
Stiff Bristled Brush
Mix the detergent in the water and gently scrub the mats using a stiff-bristled brush.
- To remove tar spots, rub w/ a tablespoon of baking soda.
- To remove Pine Pitch, rub with rubbing alcohol. Rinse.
Dry thoroughly on both sides. To give a nice shine as well as added protection, apply a thin protective coating of petroleum jelly.
Car Floor Mat Severe Stain Remover
If the floor mats are older, chances are they have some deeper stains that need attention.
You’ll Need:
1/2 c. of Dawn Dishsoap (Original) Don’t waste your time with the girly scented versions of dawn, they won’t work!
1/2 c. White Vinegar
1Â spray bottle
1 cup of baking soda
In a glass dish heat the vinegar in the microwave until it’s hot. Remove from microwave and stir in the Dawn dishsoap, mixing well. Transfer the mixture into a spray bottle.
Remove the mats from the vehicle, shaking out all excess dirt. Sprinkle the mats liberally with baking soda, then spray with the vinegar/dawn mixture until saturated. Let the mixture sit for 20-30 minutes. Using a stiff-bristled brush, scrub the mats lightly.
Rinse with a hose until the mixture is completely washed away.
Here’s a quick after shot of 10-year-old car mats! Now, if you’d really like to add a nice gloss or sheen to the mat, you can apply this homemade tire shine to them.
Always dry the mats thoroughly before putting them back in the vehicle, otherwise, mildew or mold could grow. Check out these other helpful car care tips for getting your car ready for summer!
