How to Clean Car Mats Like a Pro

A good set of car mats does more than protect your carpets from everyday wear and tear; they also add a polished, professional look to any detail. The great news is that cleaning and sanitizing your mats is simple. As for those signature pattern stripes that everyone asks about? Here's how to achieve them...

Start by removing the mats from the car and shaking off any loose dirt (best done outside, of course). Next, give them a good beating on the reverse side to dislodge any embedded dirt trapped in the fibres. Once that's done, lay the mats flat on a clean, even surface.

Take your vacuum cleaner and crevice tool to remove the loosened dirt from the carpet, using your fingers to gently separate the fibres as you go. If any dirt remains trapped, give the carpet a firm tap with the palm of your hand in front of the vacuum to help dislodge it.

After your mats are dirt-free, lightly mist them with a 1:5 dilution of Verso All Purpose Cleaner or Total Interior Cleaner. There's no need to soak them—just a quick spray will be sufficient.

Next, gently work the Verso into the carpet using an upholstery brush. Unless there are stubborn stains, avoid using too much pressure—this step is more about sanitising and deep cleaning the fabric. Don't forget to brush the cleaner into plastic clips, vinyl heel patches, or metal plates as well.

While the mats are still damp, use your Upholstery Brush to add the finishing touches. Creating a striped pattern is simple once you know the technique—start by brushing all the fabric in one direction to lay the fibres flat.

Next, create your pattern by brushing the fibres in the opposite direction, allowing them to stand up. The contrast is formed by the light catching the flat or raised fibres, giving the mats a striking, professional look.

Once you're satisfied with the stripes, let the mats dry completely. This will help stiffen the fibres and add extra durability to your design.

And that’s it! After finishing your mats, you'll be eager to tackle the carpets with the same level of detail.