A dirt trapper mat looks its best when it’s freshly unpacked and placed in your hallway. You can often tell when a doormat is brand new. But soon enough, the first feet will be wiped, leaving behind dirt and grime. Regularly cleaning your dirt trapper mat is therefore a must to keep it looking and functioning its best.
View our dirt trapper mats; fully custom-made
Regularly cleaning your dirt trapper mat is important
You often hear people say that something is “as good as new” after a thorough cleaning—like a sofa or a rug. The same applies to doormats. Cleaning a dirt trapper mat restores its fresh appearance. Compared to an absorber mat, a dirt trapper mat endures more wear and tear because its primary function is scraping dirt from your shoes. Fine particles like sand get trapped between the fibers, while larger debris like twigs, leaves, and stones remain on the surface. Cleaning your dirt trapper mat is essential for maintaining its effectiveness and longevity. Moreover, accumulated dirt left on the mat can eventually end up on your floor.
How do I clean a dirt trapper mat?
There are several ways to clean a dirt trapper mat. A hallway mat gets plenty of use and inevitably collects dirt and grime that needs immediate attention. A common, though unpleasant, example is dog poop. If you notice this, remove it and clean the stain right away. Dried mud, another frequent culprit, can also be found on your doormat. You can pick it up and dispose of it, just like other dry debris.
Smaller particles can be removed with a vacuum cleaner. A powerful vacuum will do an excellent job of extracting embedded dirt. If your custom-made dirt trapper mat isn’t too large or heavy, you can also shake it out. For stubborn stains, use a cloth or brush with soapy water to scrub the affected area.
View our dirt trapper mats; fully custom-made
Can a dirt trapper mat be washed in the machine?
The easiest way to clean your dirt trapper mat is by using a washing machine. However, check first if the mat is machine washable. Also, ensure that your washing machine’s drum has enough space for the mat. Large dirt trapper mats might not fit. If you can clean the mat in the machine, use only detergent and avoid fabric softener. Fabric softener reduces the mat’s absorbent capacity. Curious about which doormats are machine washable? Read our blog on washable doormats for more information.
Outdoor dirt trapper mats are often not machine washable due to their coarse structure and material. For example, spaghetti mats are not suitable for the washing machine. However, they can be easily cleaned with water and a stiff brush.
Benefits of cleaning your dirt trapper mat
Regularly cleaning your dirt trapper mat comes with several advantages. It extends the lifespan of your doormat and ensures that it maintains its optimal functionality. Additionally, it prevents excess dirt from ending up on your floors.