Recent Blog Posts

Spoilt for choice? If you are facing a dilemma between the numerous choices available on the market, the one tip you should keep in mind is to choose a floor mat that can easily be installed or removed, as you would want to regularly clean and upkeep your floor mats to prevent odours from occurring within your car. Now that you know this, you’re all ready to find a floor mat that fits your car and ensure it is properly secured in place!

Houses get dirty over time as dust and grime accumulate. It is no different for your car’s interior. The carpeting is subject to the occasional spill caused by messy toddlers, or perhaps from the dirt from the bottom of your shoes as you go about your daily commute. Especially so if you live somewhere with colder temperatures, as snowfall can lead to the appearance of whitish stains on the carpet. This is due to the minute amounts of salt tracked into your car. Fret now, as the white stains are removable once the snow thaws out. If you need new car mats, head on over to Simply Car Mats.

Wondering how snow leads to salt stains? The answer is simple. Salt is naturally occurring in snow. Not just that, in countries up north, they also tend to salt the roads for increased traction and to reduce the chances of an accident occurring on the roads. This means that the salt can then stick to your shoe sole, eventually transferring over to your car carpet. This is made worse by how the salt used to salt the roads are often made of a mixture of other chemicals as well, such as calcium chloride and magnesium chloride, and is not just the usual table salt we eat. This highly alkaline substance is good at withstanding freezing temperatures but eventually leaves behind a whitish blemish when the melted snow water dries out. Removal is easy, despite the nasty look of the stains.

It can be expensive to send your car into an automotive shop for stain removal, so consider our solutions before trying this option, or even going so far as to reupholster your vehicle.

Here are two easy ways to do so on your own:

Though it may smell sour, vinegar has long been an effective and organic cleaner which is easily available in most households. If you don’t have a bottle on hand, it should be readily and cheaply available at your nearest supermarket or grocery shop.

You will need a scrub brush, a spray bottle, a towel, water and white vinegar for this method.

Step 1:

Fill half an empty spray bottle with vinegar, and the other half with water to make the solution. This mixture will be strong enough to get rid of the stains, while still being weak enough to not have an overly acidic odour. Lukewarm water may be used, to allow for the vinegar to mix quickly with the water.

Step 2:

Spray the salt-stained areas of your carpet generously with the solution. If you have removable floor mats, these should be removed for cleaning and for treatment of possible salt stains. Once the mats are properly cleaned, they can then be returned to where they are supposed to be within the car. Take this chance to also thoroughly clean your floor mats of any dust, dirt and grime that may have accumulated.

Step 3:

Using a brush, gently scrub the affected areas, ensuring that there isn’t the use of excessive force. This brings the salt up to the surface for easier removal. If excessive force is used, the salt will instead sink into the carpeting fibres, making removal of the stains more difficult; as the fibres will be scrubbed away and result in a permanently damaged carpet.

Step 4:

Blot a clean, dry towel over the stained area to get rid of the moisture. Use a dry towel whenever the current one you use becomes too wet. If the carpet still feels wet despite the towel not blotting any more moisture, consider leaving your car doors open for better ventilation and faster drying.

If there seems to be a lingering smell of vinegar after the cleaning, take out your floor mats if you have any, allowing them to dry outside of the car. If you don’t have anywhere to hang out your mats to let them air dry, consider rolling down the car windows to allow for better ventilation. If a vinegar smell still exists, an air freshener can be sprayed to mask the unpleasant sourish smell.

Step 5:

Repeat steps one to four as many times as needed until there is no sight of the salt stain.

If you prefer a method which doesn’t smell as acidic, consider the carpet cleaning method. Foaming carpet cleaners usually have a less intrusive scent than vinegar. It is also quite easily available on the market, with some brands of carpet cleaner even coming with an integrated brush on its cap.

You will need to purchase the foaming carpet cleaner, a scrub brush if your carpet cleaner does not come with one, and a vacuum.

Step 1:

Liberally spray the foaming carpet cleaner on the part of the carpet which has been stained by salt.

Step 2:

Using the integrated scrubber or a scrub brush, gently scrub the stained area. Take care not to use excessive force to prevent permanent damage to the carpet due to the removal of carpet fibres.

Step 3:

Air-dry the carpet to prevent any mould or odours from forming. This is especially important if you have carpet floor mats or if you live in an area with high humidity.

Step 4:

Using either a wet or dry vacuum, vacuum the dried cleaner residue of the surface of your carpet. Also take this opportunity to generally vacuum off any dust and debris found inside your car, to ensure that the interior of your car remains as clean as possible.

Step 5:

Repeat the above-mentioned steps on all areas with salt stains, until no more stains remain.

Though you may prefer one method over the other, it is not uncommon to have to repeat the process with a mix of both just so your carpet comes out as clean as possible. Have patience when you do the cleaning, as salt stains can be difficult to remove, though they do eventually wash out.

Remember, always scrub gently so you don’t worsen the situation; and have faith that with time and patience, your car floor mat or carpet can look as good as new!

If you’re a car owner, you may find your car dirty no matter how often you clean it. From food crumbs to drink spillages from the toddlers to pet hair, messes eventually occur in your car, leading to an accumulation of dirt and grime over time. To keep your car’s interior looking at its best, a car floor mat is a must-have item. Car floor mats can be easy to maintain by removing them for cleaning before replacing them in the car.

The car mats not only protect your car floor from all sorts of dirt and grime but also adds to safety as items placed within are less likely to slip around should an anti-slip mat be used. The mat of your choice should also be durable and comfortable enough for daily use. With so many different options available on the market, and with choices ranging from floor mat material to the design, style and price, we give you an overview of some of the best mats available. If you need a floor mat for your car, Simply car mats has your back. For the best fit, enter your car reg and we will tell you the right mats for your car.

It is usually the norm for floor mats to come in a set of two, four or five mats, with the former costing the least. Floor mats which come in a set of four are the most commonly available, with two mats for the front and two for the passenger sitting area behind. For mats which come in sets of five, the last mat is meant for the trunk of an SUV or truck. Keep these in mind when deciding how many mats you need to purchase.

Carpet floor mats undoubtedly look nicer and more sophisticated than their rubber counterparts but are also more prone to wear and tear. Though the former option absorbs smell and grime, the latter is easier to clean and maintain as dirt and grime stay on its surface. Also, rubber mats look new for a longer period of time as compared to the more trendy carpet mats.

As their name suggests, universal car floor mats are meant to fit within most standard vehicles. They are often cut smaller than the intended area of protection and hence may not fit your car like a glove. On the contrary, custom mats are designed to perfectly fit your vehicle model. As they fit the entire surface properly despite the presence of wheel mouldings or other interior design features, it should come at no surprise that they are also more costly.

The usual method is to purchase a floor mat which matches the interior colour of your vehicle’s fittings. However, there are also other ways to approach this. With textures or eye-catching designs available, it is worth considering if you prefer car floor mats which blend in or which pop out to catch attention.

Now that you have some of these tips in mind, read on to find out four of the best car mats available:

1. Best overall mat: Armor All 4pc All-Season Rubber Floor Mat Set
   This mat set is an all-rounder which has a universal fit, and it’s suitable for use all year-round no matter the season. Made of durable materials, this mat can withstand even the most extreme of temperatures. With an anti-slip backing on its underside, the mat is also not subject to sliding around within the car. Spills are also contained due to a raised edge which surrounds the mat.
2. Best carpet option: OxGord 4pc Mat Set Carpet Floor
   Looking for a carpet option? OxGord’s full set carpet floor with four pieces is your best bet. The hardy mats are made with good quality carpet and will serve you for a long time to come. The universal fit of this set means it fits a majority of vehicles. Maintenance of the mats can be done by washing with water, though the stain and weather resistance of this mat means that cleaning may have to be done frequently lest the carpeting starts to give off foul odours.
3. Most Aesthetically Pleasing: BDK Universal Fit 4pc Mat Set
   BDK’s universal fit 4pc floor mat set is our car mat of choice when it comes to a stylish and trendy mat. Available in four loud colours, the mats are of a universal fit and can be used in most vehicles. An anti-skid rubber backing ensures that the mat stays where you want it to be.
4. Most durable: Motor Trend FlexTough Rubber Floor Mats
   Motor Trend’s heavy-duty floor mats are ideal if you lead a rugged lifestyle, as these mats have been put through extreme conditions to ensure their integrity even under the harshest of conditions. The mats guard against debris and spillage, alongside mud, rain and snow. Having second thoughts if such a mat will be comfortable? Rest assured that comfort wasn’t compromised, as ergonomic grooves on the upper side mean that traction and comfort are available to tired feet, while rubberised nibs on the bottom side ensures that the mat doesn’t slip around when in use. The best part is that this mat can be cut to fit the shape of your car’s interior.

Gone out to buy yourself a mat already? Perhaps you’re still on the fence? Here are some FAQs you may have about your newest purchase:

What is that bad smell coming from my car mats?

That is probably the rubber from your car mats. Rubber mats usually have a chemical odour which ought to lessen as time passes. Air out your mats in an open area for faster dissipation of the odour.

Money is tight. Can I do without car mats?

You could do that, but it might lead to more spending in the future if you need to fix your car’s interior due to scratches, spills or rusting which can occur.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You now know everything there is to know about the importance of car floor mats and how to choose one that suits your needs. Run down to your nearest automotive shop and grab one today!

Your car was probably expensive, so it makes sense that you would want to keep it in top condition. An often overlooked aspect of car interiors is the surface of the interior. Damages and dirty carpets are common if you don’t protect your car with car mats. With various types of floor mats available in the market for cars to protect the interior of your car, we bring you an overview of the types available and which might suit you best. Simply Car Mats is your solution for keeping the floor of your car clean and damage-free.

Having floor mats are essential to relieving you of the stress of scratches or dirt that make your car look old and grimy. Keeping that in mind, it is important to choose a mat that is able to withstand some wear and tear whilst keeping your car protected.

Car mats are designed for various purposes, so you need to ensure that the mat you choose is suited to your needs while remaining affordable. For instance, if you need a mat to protect your car from incline weather conditions, then a car mat that is waterproof might be your mat of choice, as opposed to an anti-slip mat more suited to trucks or vans which keep the goods they are transporting in place.

The most important tip when choosing a car mat isn’t its design, size or shape. Instead, it is important to select one that can be easily installed or removed. It is common to only use car mats for the sitting areas, however; you should consider using floor mats in the car boot to keep goods inside from sliding around, while at the same time protecting your car from scratches that may be caused through wear and tear.

Car mats are usually made of heavy-duty material such as rubber or plastic which are sturdy and can be used for various purposes. The more common types of material used for floor mats are seen below.

1. Fabric
   If you don’t have a high budget, consider getting a fabric mat, though it is important to remember that mats of a lower price often also have fewer benefits to them.
   Since it was first produced, fabric mats have been the default option for most car owners and are likely to remain the cheapest for years to come. Amongst the various car mats available, however, fabric mats are the highest risk of discolouration.
   As mentioned, the drawbacks associated with a fabric mat are its limited functions as societal trends change.
   Fabric mats often come in various colours and style to suit your preferences, from something shocking to something more muted. They also come with a rubber cover to ensure the mat stays in place.
   These mats are usually available in standard sizes and can be placed in most types of cars.
   Removal for cleaning is easy, but must be done regularly. This, unfortunately, leads to fading of colours, and thus, value.
2. Rubber
   Rubber floor mats are often of a higher quality than their fabric counterparts. This type of floor mat is exceptional for its weather resistance and uncontested durability.
   Made of thick, hard rubber, these type of floor mats have a long usage period as they can endure harsh weather.
   Moreover, they are also easy to clean and maintain due to their dust and water resistance. They also protect the car carpet against roadway sand, which can hasten the wear and tear process. The mat also stays in place.
   However, rubber mats get dirty easily due to their dust and water resistance and are also more costly than fabric mats. Rubber mats are also less trendy than fabric mats.
3. 3D Floor Mats
   Looking for something to jazz up your car? Your ideal mat would be a 3D mat. Though expensive, it is certainly worth every penny as it gives a premium fit to your car. Available in most neutral colours, it carries the dust, water and mud, thereby protecting your carpet from them.
   As 3D mats are waterproof, they will have to be routinely cleaned and maintained.
   The fit of your mat is easily adjustable to ensure that it does not hinder your drive. This is the best option for car owners looking for something that fits their car like a glove, and to go along with any internal decor.
   The drawback however would be its high price. Be prepared before making any inquiries to avoid wasting your time.
4. Nomad Mats
   If you are keen to own a mat which is custom-made, consider the Nomad mats.
   Nomad mats come in various styles and colours and are made of lasting materials which stay in place, ensuring your driving comfort and convenience.
   Unlike other types of car mats, the Nomad mats are able to absorb water, mud and dirt quickly, protecting your car against even insects. Easy to clean and maintain, this mat type does not need to be regularly cleaned.
5. Vinyl
   When it comes to the convenience of driving, the weather is an important factor affecting your experience. It is never fun to drive in bad weather, and here is where the All-weather vinyl mats come in handy.
   Made of thick vinyl, this mat type is hardier than even regular rubber mats. They suit even the most extreme weather conditions, and you can rest assure that the effects of bad weather such as slippery pedals or mud in the carpet are minimised by using a vinyl mat.
6. Transparent Plastic
   Unique and affordable, this floor mat is impressive and easy to install, clean and maintain inside your car.
   The plastic mat ensures that your carpet stays dry and is not at risk of water damage. It also prevents snow from melting through to the carpet and prevents surface rust from occurring.

We can’t stress enough the importance of car mats in keeping your car’s interior protected. Keep an eye on prices while you choose one that suits your needs best.

Being in an area of high footfall, floor mats are bound to be subjected to damage. It is hence important to maintain them regularly and replace them over time. Maintenance is the secret to a long-lasting mat.

Now that you know more about the various car mats available, don’t wait any longer! Go get one today!

It doesn’t matter how meticulous you are about ensuring that your car is spotlessly clean inside, it’s just a matter of time before dirt and grime accumulate and the occasional crumb or drink spill occurs. Though the effects of these can be mitigated by keeping some paper towels or wet wipes handy, a bit more effort is needed if you want to ensure your car looks like it was the day you got it from the showroom. Do so by thoroughly cleaning your car floor mats.

The area of your car which is subject to the most accumulation of grime is the car floor, as dirt and dust which is stuck to your shoe soles, spillage from that snack or slushie and loose debris from anything that has been in your car accumulates on the floor. Regardless of the material of your car floor mat — be it rubber or cloth, the residue will be retained. Start your cleanup process by first getting rid of any visible items on the floor, before cleaning the floor mats for a complete cleanup. Simply Car Mats is the best choice for new car mats.

This choice of floor mat material is prevalent in areas with chillier climates, and where rain and snow are common. The waterproof rubber mats ensure that moisture cannot seep through to spoil the car’s interior, and is able to dry off quickly. The downside to this is that dust and dirt accumulate as time passes. Follow these six steps for easy cleaning of your rubber mats:

1. Take the mats out of the car. In the cleaning process, water and harsh cleaning products will be used. Remove your mats before you do the cleaning to ensure that the water and chemicals do not get into your car mat.
2. Hit the mat against a hard surface or the ground to allow debris to be removed. Use a scraper to scrape off any stubborn materials which remain stuck to the surface.
3. Hose down the mat with a pressurised water hose. This should displace any loose dirt or crumbs. Ensure that the side which comes into contact with the car floor is not washed. Only the dirty side facing upwards should be hosed down.
4. Add soap to the floor map with a rag or spray bottle. If unavailable, substitute the soap and water with wet wipes, sanitiser spray or even a mixture of baking soda with soap. This gets the grime off the mats.
5. Using a hose, thoroughly rinse the soap off.
6. Ensure that the mats are fully dried before replacing them in the car. If needed, hang them on a wire, hanger, railing or chair to allow the mats to air dry.

More effort may be needed to clean car mats made of cloth compared to their rubber counterparts, and this is worsened if the mats are already wet. If your cloth mats have been left wet for a while and were never properly dried, it is not uncommon for an odour to be noticed. Tough stains may also reveal themselves on cloth mats. Read on for how to give your cloth mats a proper cleaning.

1. Take the mats out of the car. Similar to the rubber mats, water and harsh cleaning products will be used. Removal of the mats to do the cleaning ensures that these items do not get into your car. It is also easier to use a vacuum outside of a car compared inside, where the car seats will get in your way.
2. Using a vacuum, ensure both sides of the mats are vacuumed to get rid of any dirt or grime on the surface.
3. Mix baking soda with water and rub it into the upholstery. This ensures that stains and unpleasant odours are removed. A stiff brush may also be used to aid you in scrubbing the mat.
4. Use something soapy. These could be easily made by adding two tablespoons of washing powder to two tablespoons of shampoo. A stiff brush should then be used to scrub the mat with this mixture. If you have a spray cleaner, use that and wait 30 minutes so the cleaning solution has time to sit in the mat and be absorbed. Use a hand brush if desired to ensure the cleaner is properly absorbed by the mats. A spray carpet cleaner is usually available for purchase at most garages or car shops.
5. Wash the mat clean of the solution used by using a steam cleaner, power wash or a washing machine. At car washes, it should be easy to find the former two. If you prefer a cheap alternative, simply stick the mats in your washing machine and run it as you would a usual laundry load.
6. Vacuum the mats for the second time. This helps to suction off moisture and any dirt particles which may still remain. A regular vacuum will work for this purpose, though a vacuum specially designed for moisture sucking will be the optimal option.
7. Ensure that the mats are fully dried before replacing them in the car, lest a damp odour occurs. If needed, hang them on a wire, hanger, railing or chair to allow the mats to air dry, or toss them in the dryer if you want to save time.

Options are aplenty when it comes to the soap used for your car floor mat. From regular laundry detergent to shampoo, they all serve the purpose of getting the grime out of your mats. If you are thinking of getting something meant specifically to clean your car floor mats, here are some recommendations:

• Automotive Carpet Cleaners: Available in a spray bottle, these cleaners are easily found at most car shops.
• Blue Coral DC22 Upholstery Cleaner Dri-Clean Plus: With odour-elimination technology, this cleaner comes with an integrated brush cap which can be used to brush out the debris and dirt particles in your mat.
• Car Guys Premium Super Cleaner: This odourless cleaner is water-based and doesn’t leave residue behind to boot.
• Turtle Wax T-246Ra Power Out! Upholstery Cleaner: This cleaner beats out its competitors by not only having odour-elimination technology but also being soil-repellent. The cleaner comes with a scrub brush that is detachable for easy cleaning of your car floor mats.

If you find that your car mats are worse for wear, it’s time to either clean or change them out for new ones. Remember that depending on what type of car mat you have, you will need to use different methods to clean them efficiently.