Top Care and Maintenance Tips for Coir Mats
Coir mats can last a long time, as long as it is maintained and cleaned correctly. Do you remember the last time you washed your mat? Don’t worry, mats are often something people overlook when it comes to cleaning tasks around their home, despite mats having to deal with regular foot traffic. However, here are some of our top care and maintenance tips for coir mats to make the job simple.
What is coir matting made of?
Coir mats are made of husks of coconut shells, and this rough material is ideal for creating a durable mat that is hard-wearing, absorbent and perfect for removing stubborn dirt off shoes before it has a chance to be dragged through your home.
Top coir mat care and maintenance tips
PVC backed mats
Place them indoors
It is important to note that PVC-backed coir mats are NOT made for external use. When it rains, the water will pool on the PVC backing and soak the natural coir fibres, causing them to rot.
Fit them in a mat well
Our PVC-backed coir mats do not have inherent borders, making them ideal to be fitted into a mat well. Not only does this look great, but it also helps protect the edges of the mat and can help them last longer.
Turn upside down
Every now and then, turn your mat upside down and give them a shake. This will remove the dirt that has built up over time, without damaging the coir fibers.
Avoid direct sunlight
If your mat has coloured coir, avoid placing them in direct sunlight. Extensive sun exposure can lead to the mat fading.
Printed Coir Mats
Place indoors
All our printed coir mats should be placed indoors or in a sheltered area outside such as a porch. Being careful with where you are placing can help make your mat last a lot longer.
Avoid moisture
Part of the reason why indoor locations are best for printed coir mats is that excessive moisture will make the mat degrade quicker and you may find the design starts to wear off.
Woven-Backed Coir Mats
Allow Draining
Whilst our woven-backed coir mats are best placed indoors if they are kept outside and become wet, lift the mat from time to time and allow the mat to drain and dry out. The excess moisture will cause the mat to degrade at a quicker rate so keep them dry as much as possible.
Avoid vacuuming
It can be tempting to grab your vacuum straight away when your mat needs cleaning but don’t do this. A vacuum can pull and cause the coir strands to unravel. This can lead to “rat tails” forming or gaps appearing in the coir which is unsightly. If you do use your vacuum, use it with caution and opt for the brush attachment.
Synthetic Coir Mats
Start with vacuuming
Unlike traditional coir mats, synthetic mats can be vacuumed to remove the surface dirt and are the perfect place to start when it comes to cleaning.
Use water for spot cleaning
Water mixed with a mild detergent can be used to spot clean. However, you mustn't use too much water or get the mat too wet. Saturating the mat regularly can reduce the life of your doormat over time. If it does become drenched, lift the mat and allow excess water to drain away.
General Coir Mat Care and Maintenance Tips
Don’t worry about shedding
As coir is a natural material, you should expect a bit of shedding. This is completely normal and will settle. Give the mat a shake as this will help remove any loose pieces. Do not be tempted to overly vacuum the mat or pull at the threads as this could cause damage.
Avoid strong detergents
Strong detergents and solvents should be avoided as they can end up causing marks and discolouration over time. Solvents can also cause the PVC backing to expand which can damage the coir fibres.
Use dry cleaning products
Also, opt for a dry cleaner as opposed to something water-based. You can easily create your own cleaning powder by mixing cornstarch with baking soda (or purchasing a specific cleaner) Sprinkle the powder on, leave for atleast 30 minutes, and then vacuum to remove. This will keep the mat fresh, and remove odours, whilst also protecting the colour.
Don’t put it in the washing machine
As tempting as it can be, you cannot put your traditional coir mat in the washing machine. They are heavy which can be too much for the washing machine drum to handle and you could end up damaging the mat and machine at the same time.
Invest in a brush
With all dirt that comes onto your mat, it is best to let it dry. Then once it has dried use a stiff brush to remove the dirt. Then just give it a shake outside.
Use freeze spray when necessary
For tough stains such as chewing gum, get the freeze spray which can help remove it from the coir fibres.
How often should I clean coir mats?
Whilst there is no one rule as it depends on how much foot traffic the mat sees, you should aim to deep clean the mat atleast once a month with regular vacuums in between. You may want to increase deep clean frequency during muddy winter months.
Cleaning doormats can be a pain however doormats are the first line of defence for keeping the rest of the floors in your home clean. Therefore, you must incorporate your mat into your regular cleaning routine to keep it looking its best.