How to Clean Outdoor Mats - Outdoor Cabinets

Introduction

Outdoor mats are essential for providing a clean and inviting entryway to your home. However, due to their location and exposure to the elements, outdoor mats tend to get dirty quite easily. Learning how to properly clean outdoor mats will help extend their life and keep your entry looking its best. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about keeping your outdoor mats looking like new.

Assessing the Type of Outdoor Mat

Before cleaning, it’s important to identify what type of material your outdoor mat is made from, as different materials require different cleaning methods. Here are some of the most common outdoor mat materials:

Natural Fiber Mats

Mats made from natural fibers like coir, sisal, sea grass, and jute are environmentally friendly options. However, they tend to absorb moisture and can develop mildew if not cared for properly.

Rubber Mats

Rubber mats are durable options perfect for high-traffic areas. They resist moisture well but can collect dirt in crevices.

Plastic Mats

Plastic mats like polypropylene are waterproof and easy to clean. However, they tend to fade over time.

Coir Mats

Coir mats made from coconut fibers are tough and effective scrapers. But they are prone to mold growth when wet.

Nylon Mats

Nylon mats dry quickly and are resistant to mildew. However, they can collect dirt in woven textures.

Polyester Mats

Polyester mats are fade-resistant. But lint and dirt can stick to the fabric.

Once you’ve identified your mat material, you can proceed with the proper cleaning method.

Cleaning Natural Fiber Mats

Natural fiber mats require gentle cleaning methods to prevent damage. Here are some tips:

Shake off loose dirt and debris regularly with an outdoor mat beater. This prevents buildup.
Use a hard-bristled broom to give the mat a thorough sweep every few days. This lifts embedded dirt.
Mix a mild soap like Castile soap in warm water. Use a soft-bristle scrub brush dipped in this solution to spot clean stains.
Rinse with clean water. Avoid excessive moisture, which can cause mildew in natural fibers.
Allow the mat to fully air dry in sunlight before replacing in the entryway. The UV rays help kill germs.
For stubborn odors and stains, use an oxygen-activated bleach solution. Rinse thoroughly after 15 minutes of dwell time.
Salt, baking soda, and vinegar can help remove unpleasant odors. Sprinkle liberally, let sit 10 minutes, vacuum up.
Avoid chlorine bleach and harsh detergents which may degrade and fade natural fibers over time.

With routine cleaning and shake outs, natural fiber mats can provide years of service.

Cleaning Rubber Mats

Here’s how to keep rubber mats looking fresh:

Remove loose dirt with a broom or vacuum attachment frequently. Don’t allow buildup in the crevices.
Mix dish soap or laundry detergent with warm water in a bucket. Use a soft-bristle scrub brush dipped in this solution to clean.
For stubborn stains like oil, sprinkle baking soda on the spot, allow to sit 5-10 minutes, then scrub with a brush. Rinse clean.
Use a pressure washer every few months to deep clean crevices and textures. Move steadily to avoid damage.
Allow the mat to dry completely before replacing in the entryway, moisture trapped underneath can cause mold.
To restore faded color, use a vinyl/rubber protectant product every 3-6 months.
Avoid bleach and abrasive brushes which can break down the rubber over time.

With regular cleaning, rubber mats can stay looking fresh for many years. Replace if cracks or tears develop.

Cleaning Plastic Mats

Plastic mats are easily cleaned using the following techniques:

Shake or sweep away loose debris with a broom daily. This prevents dirt from being ground in.
Mix a mild detergent with warm water in a bucket. Use a soft nylon scrub brush and rinse clean. Avoid abrasive brushes.
For tough stains, spray with full-strength laundry detergent and let soak for 15 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.
Bleach can be safely used on most plastic mats to remove stubborn stains and disinfect. Rinse thoroughly.
Use a power washer every few months to clean deeply in textures. Move steadily to prevent damage.
Allow to fully dry before replacing in the entryway. Trapped moisture can cause odors and mildew.
To restore faded plastic mats, use a vinyl protectant product. Re-apply every 2-3 months.
Avoid using oil-based cleaners, citrus solvents or harsh chemicals which can degrade plastic.

With regular care, most plastic mats will retain their color and durability for many years.

Cleaning Coir Mats

Coir mats require a thorough cleaning routine:

Shake or beat the mat outdoors regularly to prevent dirt and moisture buildup in the fibers.
Sweep frequently with a stiff-bristle broom to lift out embedded dirt and debris.
Mix a solution of oxygen bleach and hot water. Scrub stains gently with a soft brush and rinse clean.
Use a wet-vac to suction away grime from the fibers. Allow to fully dry in sunlight.
For mildew prevention, periodically mop the mat with a borax solution: 1⁄2 cup borax per gallon of hot water. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
Sprinkle liberally with baking soda after cleaning, let sit overnight, vacuum up. This helps control odors.
Avoid using excessive water when cleaning coir mats, as moisture retention can lead to mold growth.
Don’t use chlorine bleach, which will weaken fibers over time. Discard mat if mold growth cannot be remediated.

With proper care, a coir mat can provide reliable service for 2-3 years or longer before needing replacement.

Cleaning Nylon Mats

Here are tips for keeping nylon mats looking their best:

Shake or sweep regularly to prevent dirt from becoming embedded.
Spot clean stains immediately with a soft brush and mild detergent. For oil stains, apply liquid dish soap and let soak before rinsing.
Deep clean every 1-2 months with a pressure washer. Move steadily and avoid direct spray on seams. Allow to completely dry.
Mix white vinegar and water in a 1:1 ratio and scrub into the mat with a soft brush. Rinse clean to remove odors.
Use an all-purpose cleaner recommended for nylon if mat appears dingy. Rinse thoroughly.
For bleaching, dilute 1⁄2 cup oxygen bleach per gallon of cool water. Scrub gently with a soft brush and rinse.
Allow the mat to fully air dry before replacing in the entryway to prevent mildew odors.
Avoid using chlorine bleach, which can degrade nylon over time. Discard if excessive fraying develops.

With routine cleaning, a nylon entry mat can last for many years without showing excessive wear.

Cleaning Polyester Mats

Polyester mats clean up easily with the following routine:

Shake or sweep daily to prevent lint, hair and debris from accumulating. Use a vacuum attachment for best results.
Mix liquid laundry detergent with warm water. Use a soft bristle brush dipped in this solution to spot clean. Rinse thoroughly.
For occasional deep cleaning, spray with an all-purpose cleaner recommended for polyester. Allow 5 minutes of dwell time before rinsing.
Bleach can be safely used for stain removal and brightening. Mix 1⁄4 cup bleach per gallon of cool water. Rinse thoroughly.
Work a degreasing dish soap into oil stains. Let soak 5-10 minutes before rinsing clean.
Allow mats to fully air dry before replacing at the entryway. Trapped moisture encourages odors and mildew.
Avoid using solvents or citrus-based cleaners which can weaken polyester fibers over time.

With regular shake outs and prompt stain removal, polyester entry mats will retain their vibrant color for many years.

Seasonal Outdoor Mat Maintenance

In addition to routine cleaning, seasonal maintenance helps prolong the life of outdoor mats:

Spring:

After winter weather, deep clean mats with a thorough scrubbing using the methods outlined for each material type.
Allow mats to dry completely in sunlight to remove musty odors.
Flip mats over periodically to evenly distribute wear and extend lifespan.

Summer:

Clean mats frequently to prevent buildup of dirt, pollen, and grass clippings.
Check for mildew growth under mats caused by accumulated moisture. Treat with a bleach solution if necessary.
Consider placing water-permeable mats like natural fiber and coir upright against a wall to dry out thoroughly.

Fall:

Remove piled up leaves, pine needles, and debris from mats frequently.
Use a wet-dry vacuum to clean dirt from textures and crevices.

Winter:

Switch to a water-proof rubber or plastic mat to prevent salt, snowmelt, and chemical residue at entryways from damaging natural fiber mats.
Shake snow and slush off mats instead of allowing it to melt in place and soak fibers.
After a snowmelt or rainfall, hang mats to dry completely before replacing to avoid mildew.

Basic Supplies for Cleaning Outdoor Mats

Having the right supplies on hand makes cleaning outdoor mats faster and easier:

Broom with stiff/soft bristles
All-purpose cleaner or dish soap
Scrub brushes with natural and plastic bristles
Sponges or scrub pads (non-abrasive)
Wet-dry vacuum
Pressure washer
Garden hose, buckets, spritzer bottles
Oxygen bleach (non-chlorine)
Distilled white vinegar
Baking soda
Borax powder
Laundry detergent
Mat beater, carpet rake

All of these supplies are relatively inexpensive and handy for tackling dirt, odors, and stains on outdoor mats.

Tips for Preventing Outdoor Mat Stains

While occasional cleaning is expected for outdoor mats, you can take some preventative steps to minimize stains:

Shake or beat mats frequently to prevent dirt from accumulating and becoming embedded.
Encourage people to wipe or scrape their shoes before entering. Consider placing a boot scraper or bristle brush outside the entryway.
Blot spills and stains immediately with an absorbent cloth before they have a chance to set.
During rainy or snowy weather, check mats periodically and hang to dry if they become soaked. Water causes mildew.
Rotate mats seasonally to spread wear evenly. Place waterproof mats at entries during rain and snow.
Check mats for mold/mildew growth monthly, especially in shady or damp areas. Treat immediately to inhibit spreading.
Replace damaged or heavily stained mats which cannot be rejuvenated through cleaning. Worn mats detract from the entry’s appearance.

With vigilant cleaning and periodic replacement, outdoor entry mats can maintain their function and aesthetic appeal for many years. Following the tips in this guide will help maximize their lifespan.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Outdoor Mats

How often should outdoor mats be cleaned?

Outdoor mats should be cleaned weekly at a minimum. Daily sweeping, shaking out, and blotting of spills is ideal to prevent stains from setting. Clean immediately when dirt, leaves, or other debris accumulates.

Can outdoor mats be cleaned with a power washer?

Power washing is an effective deep cleaning method for most outdoor mat materials when used properly. Avoid direct high-pressure spray on natural fiber mats which can damage fibers. Use a wide spray pattern and keep the nozzle about 6 inches above the mat, moving steadily.

What is the best way to clean mildew from an outdoor mat?

Mix 1 part bleach to 4 parts water and scrub into affected areas with a soft brush. For wider areas, spray with the solution, allow 10 minutes of contact time, then rinse thoroughly. Allow mats to dry completely in sunlight.

How can I remove oily garage stains from a rubber mat?

Liberally sprinkle baking soda over the oily stain and let sit for 10 minutes. Scrub with a soft brush dipped in warm, soapy water to lift the oil, then rinse clean. Repeat if needed for tough stains.

How do I get rid of pet urine odors from an outdoor mat?

Mix equal parts water and distilled white vinegar and pour liberally over the affected area. Let soak 10 minutes then blot with towels. Allow mat to fully air dry in sunlight then vacuum. Repeat if odors persist.

What’s the best way to thoroughly dry a natural fiber outdoor mat?

After cleaning a natural fiber mat, allow it to dry completely in direct sunlight rather than replacing in a covered entryway. Sunlight naturally sanitizes and fully dries fibers to prevent mildew. Flip periodically while drying.

Can I put my nylon outdoor mat in the washing machine?

Nylon mats without rubber backing can be machine washed in cold water on a gentle cycle. Use a small amount of mild detergent. Air dry thoroughly before replacing in the entryway to avoid mildew. Check manufacturer instructions.

How do I getlint and hair out of my outdoor polyester mat?

Work a small amount of liquid laundry detergent into the mat with a soft brush. Allow 5 minutes of dwell time then rinse clean. Use a wet-dry vacuum to extract debris from the polyester fibers.

Conclusion

Outdoor entry mats provide an important function by trapping dirt and absorbing moisture at exterior doors. Keeping them looking fresh requires regular cleaning tailored to the material type. With routine shake outs and vacuuming, spot stain removal, and periodic deep cleaning, outdoor mats can retain their function and aesthetic appeal. Establishing effective cleaning habits can extend the lifespan of quality doormats for many years.

Following the detailed tips provided in this guide will help you keep all types of outdoor mats – from natural fiber to rubber – looking great. With the proper supplies and techniques matched to your specific mat material, you can maintain a welcoming and dirt-free entry to your home.