How to Clean Your Car Mats

Did you know, your car mats are the often the dirtiest part of your vehicle?

Without regular cleaning, they can harbour bacteria, cause bad odours, and even start to rot.

Cleaning your car on a regular (ideally monthly) basis not only protects your car’s interior and value, but also ensures your car stays hygienic and odour-free.

The method you use to clean your car mats will differ depending on whether they are carpet or rubber mats, lucky for you we’ve created a handy guide to help explain how to clean both carpet car mats and rubber car mats.

Skip to the good bit:

• Why clean
• Before you clean
• How to clean carpet car mats
• How to clean rubber car mats

Why should you clean your car mats?

Just a quick FYI in case our introduction didn’t convince you, there are actually several other important reasons to keep your car clean, which may surprise you.

They’re dirtier than you think

Besides the obvious removal of dirt, mud and debris, and therefore prevention of damage to your car’s interior, you’ll be shocked to know that Nottingham Trent University researchers found that E.coli, the food poisoning causing germ, existed among the nasty bacteria that builds up in your cars mats.

You might save on fuel

A study by MythBusters, found that a cleaner car achieves more miles per gallon due to its reduced weight and drag. In times where fuel prices are constantly on the rise, increasing from 132 ppl in May of 2025 to 134.24 ppl in August 2025, the better fuel consumption is a real reason to keep your car polished. Not only would you save money due to better fuel consumption when keeping your car clean but will also save money on car mat replacements by prolonging their life through cleaning.

They can worsen allergies

If you or anyone you know is an allergy sufferer, cleaning your car mats becomes even more important. Removing dust, pollen, pet hairs and other allergens is crucial for ensuring a more comfortable, healthier in-car experience for those who suffer from allergies.

It could make all the difference

If that wasn’t enough to convince you, a study by Intelligent Car Leasing found that drivers with clean cars are actually involved in fewer car accidents than those with messier, dirtier cars.

Alongside this, keeping your car clean in general means a clearer mind, improved comfort for you and your passengers, as well as an improved, slick, car appearance.

What you need to do before cleaning your car mats

Cleaning your car mats is actually a very simple process, but before you get started, here are a few things you’ll need to do before you get started.

Check your car mats

Firstly, you’ll need to remove the mats from your car and check a few things:

• Identify the type of mat: carpet or rubber.
• Look for signs of wear, damage, or stubborn stains.
• Check the manufacturer’s cleaning recommendations if available.
• Check you have the appropriate materials:
  • For carpet mats:
    • A stiff brush
    • A stain remover or baking soda paste
    • A bucket of warm water
    • A car shampoo or mild soap
    • A towel
  • For rubber mats:
    • A hose or bucket of water
    • A car shampoo or mild soap
    • A stiff brush
    • A microfibre towel
    • Optional: a rubber conditioner

Additionally, check the manufacturer’s cleaning recommendations if available.

Remove surface debris

• Remove the mats from your car to avoid soaking or damaging the car’s interior.
• Shake mats outdoors to loosen dirt before deeper cleaning.
• For rubber mats, shake off debris before washing.
• Use a stiff brush to dislodge dried mud, grass, or gravel.

How to clean carpet car mats

Carpet car mats trap more dirt, dust and liquids than rubber mats meaning they require more thorough cleaning.

1. Brushing & Vacuuming

• Use a stiff brush to loosen trapped dirt and pet hair.
• Vacuum slowly, focusing on seams and grooves.
• Flip and vacuum both sides for best results.

2. Wash Your Mats

• Mix warm water with car carpet cleaner or mild detergent.
• Scrub mats with a brush in circular motions.
• Treat stubborn stains (coffee, mud, salt) with stain remover or baking soda paste.
• Avoid soaking excessively to prevent mildew.

3. Drying

• Pat with a dry towel to absorb excess moisture.
• Air-dry in a sunny, well-ventilated area.
• Avoid putting back in the car until fully dry to prevent mould growth.

How to clean rubber car mats

Rubber mats are durable and easier to clean but still need proper care to avoid lingering dirt or odours.

1. Remove Any Debris

• Shake off any mud, stones, and dirt outside.
• Rinse your car with a hose to dislodge any larger particles.

2. Washing

• Use a car shampoo or mild soap with warm water.
• Scrub the mat with a stiff brush to remove grime and salt stains.
• Avoid harsh chemicals that can crack rubber.

3. Drying

• Wipe the mat down with a microfibre towel.
• Allow mats to air-dry completely before placing back in the car.
• Optional: Use a rubber conditioner to restore shine and prevent cracking.

Car Mat Cleaning FAQs

Can you put car mats in the washing machine?

Carpet mats: It is not recommended to clean your carpet car mats in the washing machine as it can damage fibres or backing. The heat damages the backing, warping it, whilst the spin cycle roughens and destroys the edges.

Rubber mats: Do not wash rubber car mats in the washing machine. The weight and imbalance of the rubber mats risks breaking the washing machine.

What soap should I use to clean my car mats?

For carpet mats, use a car carpet cleaner or mild detergent to clean the mat. Mix warm water with car carpet cleaner or mild detergent and then scrub the mats with a brush in circular motions.

For rubber mats, car shampoo or dish soap diluted in water works well.

How often should I clean my car mats?

• Light cleaning (vacuum/brush): weekly.
• Deep cleaning: every 1–2 months, or more often in winter.

How do I get rid of bad smells in car mats?

• Sprinkle baking soda, let sit, then vacuum.
• For stubborn odours, use an enzyme cleaner.

The most effective technique for getting rid of bad smells in car mats is to sprinkle baking soda, let it sit for 15 minutes for a quick refresh, or overnight for best results, then vacuum.

For stubborn odours, use an enzyme cleaner. Spray the enzyme cleaner onto the affected sections of the car mat, saturating the area. Allow the cleaner to work for at least a few hours, after which, blot the area clean with an absorbent cloth and then allow the car mats to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area.

Can I pressure wash my rubber car mats?

Yes, you can pressure wash your rubber mats. However, avoid using high pressure too close to the mat, as this may damage the mat surface.

How do I stop my mats from slipping after cleaning?

In order to stop your mats from slipping after cleaning, ensure they are fully dry and do not have any residual water present.