Is it OK to wash car mats in the washer?

Not universally advisable, but some mats can be machine-washed with care. Carpeted mats are more likely to tolerate a gentle cycle, while rubber/all-weather mats are typically better cleaned by hand or with a hose. Always check manufacturer guidance and avoid heat when drying.

Car mats vary in material and construction, which affects how you should clean them. This article outlines when machine washing is appropriate, how to do it safely, and what to avoid to protect both your mats and your appliance.

Types of car mats and machine-wash viability

Here is a quick guide to which mat types are generally safe to machine wash and the precautions that apply.

• Carpeted/fabric mats: More likely to withstand machine washing on a cold, gentle cycle with a mild detergent. Remove mats from the car, shake out loose debris, and optionally pre-treat stains. Wash them separately from clothing and place them in a mesh bag or pillowcase to reduce agitation. Avoid bleach and high heat; air-dry completely.


• All-weather rubber mats: Typically cleaned by hose, brush, and soap. Many manufacturers advise against machine washing, as the backing and texture can degrade over time. If you choose to machine wash, use a front-loading washer if possible, place mats in a large mesh bag, use cold water on a gentle cycle, and avoid high heat; air-dry away from direct sun.


• Mat types with delicate logos or sensitive backing: The logos, raised lettering, or foam backing can be damaged by machine agitation. Best to clean by hand or with a soft brush and approved cleaners.

Bottom line: carpeted mats are the most likely to tolerate machine washing when done with cold water and a gentle cycle, while rubber mats are usually safer to clean by hand or with hose-based methods. Always consult the mat’s care instructions and avoid heat during drying.

How to wash car mats in the washer (if you decide to proceed)

If you decide to machine wash your mats, follow these steps to minimize risk to the mats and your machine.

1. Remove the mats from the car, take out loose dirt, and vacuum the backside as well. This reduces mess inside the wash drum.


2. Check any care labels or manufacturer guidance. Distinguish between carpeted fabrics and rubber/backing, as methods differ.


3. Pre-treat stubborn stains with a mild detergent or stain remover suitable for fabrics; avoid bleach on colored carpets and avoid harsh solvents that could damage rubber.


4. Load into the washer with protective measures: use a front-loading machine if possible; place mats in a large mesh bag or pillowcase; add a few towels to balance the load; use cold water and a gentle cycle with a mild detergent; do not use fabric softener.


5. Dry properly: remove mats promptly and air-dry flat in a shaded area; avoid high heat or direct sun, which can warp rubber or fade fabrics. Do not use a tumble dryer for most mats.


6. Reinstall once completely dry. Inspect for any warping or damage before putting back into use.

Following these steps can help minimize wear on mats and equipment, but if in doubt, hand-cleaning remains the safer option, especially for rubber or backing-heavy mats.

Alternatives and care tips

For many drivers, hand-cleaning or hose-only methods offer safer, faster results without risking your washing machine. Use a dedicated car interior cleaner or mild detergent, scrub with a brush, and rinse thoroughly. Ensure mats are fully dry before reinstalling to prevent mold and odors.

Summary

Machine washing car mats is not universally appropriate. Carpeted mats are the most amenable to machine washing when you use cold water, a gentle cycle, and air-dry thoroughly. Rubber mats usually fare better with hand cleaning or hose-based methods. Always check the mat’s care instructions, protect the washing machine with a bag or pillowcase if you proceed, and avoid heat in drying to prolong mat life and appliance safety.

Is it hygienic to wash floor mats in a washing machine?

Yes, it can be hygienic to wash floor mats in a washing machine, provided you check the care label to ensure the mat is machine washable and take precautions. Always shake out loose dirt first, use a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent, and avoid washing mats with rubber or latex backing as it can be damaged and may clog the machine. 
Before you wash

• Check the care label: Always verify that your mat is machine washable according to the manufacturer's instructions, as some mats can be damaged or void their warranty if machine washed. 
• Shake it out: Take the mat outside and shake it vigorously to remove loose dirt, dust, and debris. This prevents clogs and helps the wash cycle be more effective. 
• Pre-treat stains: Address any tough stains with a spot cleaner before putting the mat in the machine. 
• Do not wash mats with rubber/latex backing: These mats can degrade in a machine, and the broken-off pieces can clog the drain. Hand-wash them instead. 
• Avoid over-packing: Don't wash very large or heavy mats that could unbalance your washing machine. Some experts advise against machine washing any large bath mats due to the weight they can absorb when wet. 

This video demonstrates the process of washing a doormat in a washing machine: 1mMake An Entrance LimitedYouTube · Apr 19, 2018
During the wash

• Use a gentle cycle: Use a gentle or delicate cycle to protect the mat's fibers. 
• Use cold water: Cold water is gentler on mat materials and can help prevent shrinkage. 
• Use mild detergent: Choose a mild detergent and avoid harsh chemicals or bleach. 
• Skip fabric softener: Do not use fabric softener, as it can reduce the mat's absorbency. 
• Add towels: To balance the load, especially with smaller mats, wash it with a few towels. 
• Consider adding a disinfectant: To kill germs, you can add a disinfectant like Dettol to the wash cycle. 

After the wash

• Air-dry completely: Always air-dry mats flat or hang them up to dry completely. Using high heat in a dryer can cause damage and shrinkage. 
• Run a cleaning cycle: After washing a mat, run an empty rinse cycle to clean out any lingering debris from the machine. 

How to know if a mat is machine washable?

Look for "machine washable" or similar wording on the tag. Consider the rug's material (synthetic fibers are often machine-safe) Examine the backing for any rubber or non-washable materials. Test colorfastness in an inconspicuous area before washing.

What is the best way to wash car mats?

The best way to clean car mats is to first remove loose debris by shaking and vacuuming, then deep clean using a carpet cleaner or a mild soap and water solution, scrub with a brush, and finally rinse and dry them completely before putting them back in the car. For rubber mats, a quick rinse and scrub with soap is usually sufficient, while carpet mats may require a spray-on cleaner and longer drying time. 
This video demonstrates the full process of cleaning car floor mats, from removing loose debris to deep cleaning and drying: 57sChrisFixYouTube · Oct 8, 2020
For all mat types

1. Remove and shake: Take the mats out of the car and shake them to remove as much loose dirt, dust, and debris as possible. 
2. Vacuum: Vacuum both sides of the mats to remove any remaining loose particles. A wet-dry vac is helpful for pulling out moisture. 
3. Scrub: Apply a carpet cleaner or a solution of mild detergent and water. Use a stiff brush to scrub the mats and work the cleaner into the fabric or treads to remove stains and ground-in dirt. 
4. Rinse: Thoroughly rinse the mats with water to remove all soap and dirt. 
5. Dry completely: Hang the mats to air dry completely. Do not put them back in the car until they are totally dry to prevent a damp smell. 

Tips for carpet mats

• Treat stains with a commercial or DIY cleaner (like a mixture of dish soap and water) before the main cleaning. 
• Let the spray-on cleaner sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the mats to absorb it, then scrub. 
• If using a wet vac, it can help remove excess water and cut down on drying time. 

Tips for rubber mats

• After vacuuming, a simple rinse with a hose works well. 
• Scrub with a mild soap and a brush, then rinse thoroughly again. 
• Avoid using harsh chemicals like chlorine bleach, which can cause damage. 

Can you put a car mat in a washing machine?

It is generally not recommended to put car mats in a washing machine, as the machine may damage or warp the mats. Instead, it is recommended to clean them by hand using a brush and cleaning solution, or to take them to a professional cleaner who specializes in car detailing.