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Expert Advice

How to clean an entrance mat

A clean entrance mat is more than a finishing touch – it’s the first line of defence for your building. By keeping dirt and moisture out, mats protect the interior, reduce maintenance costs, and safeguard users. But like any hardworking system, they need care themselves to keep performing at their best.
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Designing for all

Independent testing shows that in dry conditions, 100 grams of dirt can be carried into a building each day per 1000 people. In wet conditions, that figure increases twelve-fold. Without an effective mat – and without regular cleaning – that dirt finds its way onto flooring surfaces, creating unnecessary wear and potential hazards.

Regular cleaning as the baseline

Routine is everything. The right schedule depends on where the mat is located, how much traffic it receives, and the weather conditions outside. For some sites, that means daily attention; for others, weekly. The goal is to stop dirt and moisture from building up to the point where mats stop protecting and start contaminating.

For effective everyday cleaning, use a vacuum cleaner with power-driven brushes. On aluminium strip systems, work lengthwise along the infill to lift out grit. Axis and Shuttle Entrance Matting Systems should be cleaned both lengthwise and sideways for a thorough result. Always allow mats to dry before vacuuming to ensure maximum removal.

Next-level cleaning for long-term performance

Routine vacuuming is the baseline. For stains like food, drink, grease or blood, immediate treatment with a mild detergent and warm water is usually enough. For tougher issues such as paint or wax, specialist solvents or techniques may be needed.

For best results, periodic deep cleaning by a certified carpet care professional is recommended. Methods such as wet foam or spray extraction restore appearance and maintain long-term effectiveness, helping mats do their job day after day.

Whatever method is used, it’s important not to damage the mat itself. Harsh scrubbing can harm fibres, while cleaners with a pH higher than 10 may leave residues or cause discolouration. Always test on a small, hidden area first.

Protecting the first impression

Entrance matting is designed to work quietly in the background, protecting people, interiors and investments. With the right care, it does more than keep a building clean – it helps create safer, healthier environments and supports the flooring beyond it.

For Advance Flooring, this isn’t just about maintenance. It’s about making flooring easy, extending product life, protecting buildings and people, and ensuring a great first impression.

Key points: how to clean entrance mats

  • Entrance mats are the first defence against dirt, moisture and floor damage.
  • Regular cleaning prevents contamination, slip hazards and premature wear.
  • Daily or weekly vacuuming (depending on traffic) is essential for performance.
  • Use vacuum cleaners with power brushes; clean lengthwise (and sideways for Axis/Shuttle systems).
  • Treat stains immediately with detergent and water; use specialist solvents for tougher marks.
  • Periodic professional cleaning (wet foam or spray extraction) restores appearance and function.
  • Avoid harsh scrubbing or high-pH cleaners to protect mat fibres.
  • Well-maintained mats support safer, cleaner and longer-lasting flooring environments.