Entrance Mats Cleaning Guide

The entrance mats constitute the first defense of your space against the entry of dirt and mud. For this reason, cleaning them is extremely important. They are one of the dirtiest items in any home or business. Therefore, if you want to keep your environment clean and safe, follow the instructions below to maintain your entrance mats in excellent condition!

Before starting the cleaning process for your mat, check if there are specific cleaning instructions from the manufacturer.

1. Make sure to shake out the mat daily

By hitting the mat against a surface, you will be able to largely remove dust, mud, and small debris. You can hit it on the sidewalk, railings, or a wall that you don't mind getting dirty. However, the mat must be durable and suitable for such a procedure.

2. Weekly Vacuuming

Vacuum the entrance mat at least once a week, using a traditional or electric vacuum cleaner. Vacuum with lengthwise movements, following the direction of the fibers. This will help you remove dirt more effectively.

3. Remove stains with detergent

You can use a specialized detergent or a mild dish soap to remove stains on your mat. Alternatively, use baking soda or white vinegar. After applying the detergent, scrub with a soft cloth or a soft brush and leave it for a few minutes before rinsing it with lukewarm water. Faster treatment of stains yields better results. Baking soda will also remove unpleasant odors from the mat.

4. Deep Cleaning

Using a mild detergent and running water, you can deep clean your mat. To proceed with this process, make sure the washing instructions on the packaging allow it. Washing this way should be done once or twice a month. If you want to avoid using water for your mat, you can sprinkle it with baking soda and rub it in well. Then vacuum the soda with an electric vacuum cleaner.

5. Dry the mat thoroughly

Allow the mat to dry naturally, avoiding direct sun exposure, as this can cause undesirable damage to its fibers and backing. Make sure the mat is completely dry before placing it back at your entrance; otherwise, mold may develop. 

6. Freshen up the mat

To make your mat look like new and smell pleasant, it will need a freshening up. You can use special products that refresh it or, alternatively, sprinkle baking soda on it, and after letting it sit for ten minutes, rub it with a brush and then vacuum it with an electric vacuum cleaner after five minutes.

Tips for Clean Entrance Mats

• Use the appropriate entrance mat depending on the season. During the rainy season, it is preferable to use a non-slip and waterproof rug, while in the summer you can use a straw or fabric one. 
• If you notice cats lying on your mat, filling it with hair or even feces, wash it with water in which you have dissolved a small amount of bleach. Cats cannot stand the smell of bleach, and thus they will not approach your mat. This method is recommended for straw rugs. 
• The entrance mat will require a long time to dry, so you should have more than one so that you can replace them. 

To choose the ideal entrance mat for you, consult the corresponding entrance mat buying guide of designdrops and visit our category entrance mats to find rugs, carpets, and many other quality products at unbeatable prices!