How do you clean Subaru floor mats?
Remove the mats from your Subaru, shake out loose dirt, and vacuum. For cleaning, rubber mats respond best to a soap-and-water scrub followed by a thorough rinse, while carpet mats benefit from pretreatment and a carpet-safe cleaner before rinsing and air-drying. Dry completely before reinstalling to prevent mold and odors.
Subaru floor mats come in two common types—rubber and carpet—and each requires slightly different care. Rubber mats are rugged and washed with basic cleaners, whereas carpet mats trap more dirt and stains and need stain treatment and careful drying. The steps below outline practical methods you can perform at home, in a driveway, or at a car wash bay, with tips to avoid typical pitfalls like lingering moisture or harsh chemicals.
Rubber floor mats
What you’ll do for rubber mats: remove, rinse, scrub, and dry thoroughly to prevent slipping and odor.
- Remove the mats from the vehicle and shake out loose dirt and debris.
- Rinse the mats with a hose or spray nozzle to loosen embedded grime.
- Mix a solution of mild dish soap or automotive cleaner with warm water.
- Scrub both sides of the mats with a stiff-bristle brush, paying extra attention to grooves and ridges.
- Rinse thoroughly until all soap is removed and the water runs clear.
- Wipe or shake off excess water, then blot with a towel to remove remaining moisture.
- Air-dry the mats completely in a shaded, well-ventilated area before reinstalling. Avoid direct high heat or a dryer, which can warp rubber.
- Reinstall the mats when fully dry and check for any remaining dirt or odor.
Following these steps helps keep rubber Subaru mats non-slip, clean, and free from residue that could track back into the car.
Carpet floor mats
What you’ll do for carpet mats: pretreat stains, clean with a carpet-safe cleaner, rinse or blot, and dry completely to prevent mildew and fiber damage.
- Remove the mats and vacuum both sides thoroughly to lift dirt, dust, and hair.
- Inspect for stains and pretreat with a carpet stain remover or a baking soda paste (baking soda mixed with water) for 5–10 minutes.
- Apply a carpet-safe cleaner or a mild detergent solution; scrub in gentle, circular motions with a soft brush.
- Rinse with a clean damp cloth to remove soap residue, or use a carpet-cleaning machine if you have one; avoid saturating the backing.
- For odors, sprinkle baking soda on the mat and let it sit overnight, then vacuum.
- Allow the mats to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area before reinstalling. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct heat that can shrink or warp carpet fibers.
Carpet mats require thorough drying and odor management to prevent mildew. If mats are heavily soiled, machine washing may be an option in some models, but always follow the Subaru owner's manual and mat manufacturer recommendations. If in doubt, or if staining is persistent, consider professional cleaning or replacement to keep the cabin fresh.
Summary
Whether you have rubber or carpet Subaru floor mats, a routine of removal, cleaning, and complete drying keeps the interior clean and protects the mats from wear and odor. With the right cleaners and a mindful drying process, your mats stay functional and look newer for longer.
