by
Lawton Brothers
| Apr 21, 2022
Floor mats are the first method of protection for your floors from dirt, debris, and water, meaning they need extra attention for effective cleaning. While there are a variety of types of floor mats with varying materials, structures, and depths that can influence the most effective cleaning procedure, the following guide can help get any mat cleaner.
Ensure Safety
When you clean your mat, be sure to place signs and alert employees in the area to the potential fall risk due to the absence of the mat. If necessary, you can place a towel or similar mat in the area until the original can be returned. Additionally, you will need to find a location for the cleaning process that is (ideally) an outdoor, concrete area with hose access and adequate drainage.
Remove Large Debris
Before applying anything to the mat, we want to remove as much of the debris and contaminants as we can. Depending on the type of mat, it can be shaken, swept on both the front and back sides, or smacked with a hand or other blunt object. Oftentimes you can use a combination of these tactics to remove larger dirt particles. For example, sweeping the rug, then shaking it out can remove twice as much debris and help better prepare it for the next step.
Deep Cleaning
Interior mats with pile, such as welcome mats, can be cleaned using any method recommended for carpeted floors. Particularly for carpeted mats, use a neutral, solvent-free cleaner. For most other mats, a mild detergent and water can be enough for a beautiful clean. For scraper or industrial mats, it’s important to spend time focusing on scrubbing cracks and crevices. When it comes time for rinsing, be sure to remove all the soap to prevent a slipping hazard or potentially corroding the mat.
Finally, possibly the longest step, is drying the mats. This can be particularly time-consuming for carpeted mats as a damp carpeted mat can lead to a slipping hazard as well as the growth of mold and mildew. The recommended method for drying mats is by hanging them up in a sunny and well-ventilated area or placed near a fan to help the drying process.
More Matting!
Whether you’re looking for products or answers, Lawton Brothers is the one to call! With certified professionals and over 75 years of experience, we’ve got what you’re looking for. Give us a call with your questions or ask us about a free cleaning audit at 800.432.0813.