How to Maintain Floor Mats

by Cameron

Overview

Floor mats, which are used in homes, public restaurants, and other areas of high traffic, are useful because they not only provide decoration and comfort to an environment, but also provide safety and sanitation. Bacteria and dirt are common problems in many floor mats as they are subject to daily traffic. However, maintaining and cleaning floor mats can be a simple process and will ensure that the dirt, bacteria and other pollutants don't spread to other parts of the surrounding environment.

Step 1

Keep dirt and soil off mats by taking off shoes when entering a room with floor mats. This can help maintain the mat's appearance without carrying in excess dirt and and hard-to-clean soil from outside.
Step 2

Contact a professional carpet cleaning service. A professional vendor service can properly clean floor mats with specialized chemicals. Enlist a cleaning service at least twice a year to keep the floor mats properly maintained.
Step 3

Clean floor mats every four months if you cannot enlist a professional cleaning service. Use nontoxic cleaning agents to remove dirt or soil from mats. Invest in a carpet cleaner or wet vacuum to thoroughly remove dirt from deep inside the mats' fibers.
Step 4

Use floor drains if available to properly drain dirt from mats. Wash the mats outside or in a utility tube with a water hose to dispose of bacteria that many mats hold. Dispose of all dirty water in a grease trap or interceptor.
Step 5

Only wash floor mats with cotton fibers in a washing machine. Treat floor mats with desired detergent and 1/4 cup of distilled vinegar to remove stains and bacteria. Do not dry floor mats in a dryer as the heat can ruin the fibers. Instead, maintain floor mats' appearance by allowing them to air dry.