Washable Mats

Washable Mats: The Perfect Solution for Clean, Hygienic Floors

Discover our premium collection of washable door mats and machine washable mats designed to keep your home or business spotless whilst maintaining style and durability. Our washable mats combine functionality with aesthetics, offering the perfect solution for high-traffic areas that demand both cleanliness and visual appeal.

Why Choose Washable Door Mats & What are the Benefits?

Superior Hygiene and Cleanliness

Our machine washable mats ensure your entrance areas remain hygienic and free from harmful bacteria. Washable mats can be thoroughly cleaned, eliminating germs and maintaining a fresh, welcoming environment.

Effortless Maintenance

Maintaining washable door mats couldn’t be simpler. When your mat begins to show signs of wear or accumulates dirt, simply place it in your washing machine and let the machine do the work.

How to Properly Wash Your Washable Mats

Machine Washing Instructions – always check manufacturer guidelines.

Preparation: Take your mat outside and shake to remove loose particles and surface dirt. For stubborn stains, apply a small amount of gentle detergent directly to the affected area before washing.

Washing Process: Place your washable mat in the washing machine and select a 30°C cycle (check individual product specifications, as some can handle 40°C). Use a gentle, non-biological washing detergent without optical brightening agents to prevent colour fading. Reduce the spin speed to 400 RPM or lower to protect the mat’s construction.

Drying Your Washable Mats: After washing, hang your mat or place outside to air dry completely before returning it to service. Air drying is generally recommended to prevent potential shrinkage or damage. Always check individual product specifications for tumble drying compatibility.

Alternative Cleaning Methods: For larger washable mats that won’t fit in domestic washing machines, consider using a commercial laundry facility or carpet extraction machine. These alternatives ensure thorough cleaning whilst protecting both your mat and washing machine from potential damage.

Choosing the Right Washable Mat Material

Synthetic Materials

The most effective washable door mats typically feature synthetic materials such as P.E.T. nylon, polypropylene, or rubber. These materials resist moisture absorption, dry quickly, and maintain their structure through repeated washing cycles.

Rubber-Backed Options

Many of our washable mats feature rubber backing for enhanced stability and anti-slip properties. Rubber-backed washable mats, such as Shades Heavy Duty, are generally machine washable, provided they’re made from synthetic materials and are appropriately sized for your washing machine.

Maintenance Schedule for Washable Mats

High-Traffic Areas

For entrances experiencing heavy footfall, wash your washable door mats monthly and shake them out weekly. This schedule ensures optimal performance and maintains the mat’s appearance and hygiene standards.

Standard Traffic Areas

In moderate-use locations, washing every few months or as needed will suffice. Regular vacuuming with a roller brush vacuum cleaner helps maintain effectiveness between deep cleans.

Professional Cleaning Tips

Reserve machine washing for deep cleaning or when mats become saturated or stained. Regular maintenance with vacuum cleaning and periodic shaking will extend the time between wash cycles whilst maintaining mat performance.

FAQ’s about Washable Mats

Are all indoor mats washable?
Not all indoor mats are machine washable. Whilst many synthetic mats are designed for machine washing, natural fibre mats such as coir or PVC-backed mats are generally not suitable for washing machine cleaning due to their water absorption properties and potential for damage. Many PVC mats have backings which can crack or split if placed in a washing machine.

Can I use bleach on washable mats?
Always check the manufacturer’s instructions before using bleach or harsh chemicals on washable door mats. Generally, it’s best to avoid bleach, particularly on natural fibre components, as it may cause damage or colour fading.

Can I put washable mats in the dryer?
While some washable mats can be tumble-dried, it is best to air-dry mats if possible to prevent shrinkage or damage. Check the manufacturer’s instructions first to ensure that the mat is suitable for tumble drying and do so on low heat.

What size washable mats are available?
Our washable mats range from small indoor door mats to large commercial installations. We offer standard sizes and can create custom washable mats up to 2 x 6.6 metres, ensuring we can accommodate virtually any space requirement. Shades Custom Heavy Duty is a great option if you’re looking for custom sizes.

Are washable mats suitable for high-traffic areas?Yes, washable mats are a great choice for high-traffic areas, as they can help to trap dirt and moisture and keep your floors clean and dry. However, it’s important to choose a mat that’s specifically designed for high-traffic areas and to clean it regularly to ensure it stays effective.

What are the best materials for washable mats?
The best materials for washable mats depend on your specific needs and the environment in which the mat will be used. Kitchen mats, outdoor mats and mats in wet areas are typically all rubber mats. Indoor Door mats are typically fabric on rubber. Some popular materials for washable mats include P.E.T. nylon, polypropylene, and rubber.

How long do washable mats last?
The lifespan of washable mats depends on several factors, including the quality of the mat, the amount of traffic it sees, and how well it’s maintained. In general, a high-quality washable mat should last for several years with regular cleaning and maintenance. Our Shades Custom Heavy Duty Mats typically last at least 5 years in high-traffic areas.

Do you offer autoclavable mats?
Autoclavable mats are specialised mats used in medical, laboratory, and other sterile environments. These mats are designed to withstand high temperatures and pressure and can be sterilised using an autoclave. We recommend our Cushion Flow mat for use as an autoclavable mat. This mat is made from high-quality grease-proof and anti-slip rubber, making it ideal for use in medical and laboratory settings.