Slip-resistant floor mats make the kitchen life much safer, but they can also increase the risk of falling and injuries. Why? When they’re dirty and greasy, they tend to be very slippery, which is why it’s recommended to clean your kitchen floor mat every week if you cook for at least 2 hours each day. [no_toc]
If you cook more often, aim to clean the floor mat at least once in three days. Doesn’t it sound daunting? Nope, because cleaning the floor mat is easier than you think. Check out the tips below.
1. Invest in a self-cleaning broom
Keep your kitchen floor mat cleaner for longer with a self-cleaning broom. I’m not talking about those plastic or silicone brooms that also require cleaning. I’m talking about those old-fashioned brooms made from broomcorn. Sweep your mat with a broom after you finish cooking to remove any dirt, dust, grim, and soil. Unlike plastic and silicone brooms, brooms made from broomcorn are more efficient and self-cleaning. Plus, they’re cheaper than vacuum cleaners.
2. Don’t clean your floor mat in a washing machine
If you clean and dry your kitchen mat in a washing machine on a regular basis, you’ll quickly kill it. The floor mats don’t require harsh cleaning techniques, so use the cleaning method mentioned next.
3. Opt for a mild soap and warm water method
Any mild soap or detergent cleans the grease, oils, and dirt perfectly, so avoid using high pH chemicals, solvents, bleach, or alkalis when cleaning the mat. The aggressive chemicals will only damage the mat surface and your hands.
While the hot water seems to clean the grease and dirt faster and more effectively, it can also damage the mat surface. Opt for warm water or almost hot water instead. If your floor mat isn’t too big, you can place it in the sink with warm water and dissolved mild soap or detergent for 20 to 30 minutes.
4. Treat scuff marks
Scuff marks are inevitable when you have a kitchen floor mat unless you don’t enter the kitchen for weeks. It’s not a reason to throw away the mat, though. Revitalize it with your toothpaste – don’t use the gel type. Just slightly the toothpaste into the mark using your old toothbrush, wipe it away and wash with a damp cloth. Note, this method may not work for certain floor mats. It depends on the material your mat is made from.
5. Allow time to dry
It’s best if you let your mat dry outdoors, but if it’s not an option, lay or hang it in the bathroom. It’ll take some time but allowing it to completely dry rather than leaving in the kitchen will keep your mat cleaner for longer. Don’t use a hairdryer to speed up the drying process. This way, you can damage the mat surface.
Cleaning a kitchen floor mat isn’t as tricky as you think. Just do it regularly and make sure you invest in a high-quality floor mat. The cleaning tips mentioned above will help you keep your floor mat in a tip-top condition for many years to come.
