Clean Floor Mats Outside the Car

The Problem

Your floor mats are grimy, stained, and ground-in with dirt. Vacuuming barely helps.

The Hack

Remove all floor mats. Rubber mats: spray with all-purpose cleaner, scrub with a brush, rinse with hose. Carpet mats: vacuum, spray with carpet cleaner, scrub, rinse, and air dry fully before replacing.

Why It Works

Mats are designed to be removed for cleaning. Cleaning in-place is impossible because you can't apply water and pressure inside the car. Removing them allows proper scrubbing and drying.

Pro Tips

• Rubber mats: hose off, scrub, air dry
• Carpet mats: vacuum, spot clean, or machine wash (delicate cycle)
• Let carpet mats dry COMPLETELY before putting back — moisture causes mold
• WeatherTech or Husky all-weather mats are much easier to clean than carpet