To clean rubber floor mats in a gym, use a mixture of warm water and mild detergent, scrub with a soft brush, and rinse thoroughly to remove dirt and odors.
Rubber gym floor mats endure heavy foot traffic, sweat, and equipment drops daily. Proper cleaning extends their lifespan and maintains a hygienic workout space. Follow these expert-approved methods to keep your rubber flooring in top condition.
Essential Cleaning Supplies
Gather these tools before starting:
- pH-neutral cleaner or mild dish soap
- Microfiber mop or soft-bristle brush
- Two-bucket system (one for cleaning solution, one for rinse water)
- Vacuum without beater bar (or with soft bristles)
- Scraper for gum removal (plastic only)
For deep cleaning, consider our recommended antibacterial cleaning spray that’s safe for rubber surfaces.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
1. Dry Cleaning First
Always remove loose debris before wet cleaning:
- Vacuum with a rubber-safe vacuum
- Use a soft broom if vacuum isn’t available
- Check corners and edges where dust accumulates
2. Spot Treatment
Address stubborn stains before general cleaning:
| Stain Type | Treatment |
|---|---|
| Gum | Plastic scraper + ice cube to harden |
| Chalk dust | Damp microfiber cloth |
| Protein spills | Enzyme cleaner |
3. Wet Cleaning
For the main cleaning:
- Mix 1/4 cup mild soap per gallon of warm water
- Dip mop and wring thoroughly (damp, not soaking)
- Clean in sections, rinsing mop frequently
- Change water when it becomes cloudy
Choosing the Right Cleaner
Commercial Cleaners
Specialized rubber floor cleaners like Rubber Flooring Inc’s formula offer advantages:
- Pre-mixed proper pH balance
- Anti-microbial properties
- Degreasing capability
Homemade Solutions
Effective DIY cleaner recipe:
- 1 gallon warm water
- 1/4 cup white vinegar (for disinfecting)
- 1 tsp organic castile soap
- 5 drops tea tree oil (optional antimicrobial)
Maintenance Tips
Daily Care
- Dry mop or vacuum daily
- Wipe spills immediately
- Use walk-off mats at entrances
Weekly Deep Cleaning
- Scrub with soft brush attachment
- Use floor scrubber for large areas
- Allow proper drying time
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Harsh chemicals: Bleach and ammonia degrade rubber
- Excess water: Can seep under tiles and cause mold
- Abrasive tools: Steel wool or stiff brushes cause permanent scratches
- Oil-based cleaners: Leave residue that attracts dirt
For tough stains, try Great Mats’ specialized cleaning techniques before resorting to stronger solutions.
Special Considerations
Odor Control
New rubber mats often have strong odors. Speed up off-gassing by:
- Washing with baking soda solution
- Increasing ventilation
- Using odor absorbers like activated charcoal
Textured Surfaces
Diamond plate or coin patterns require:
- Stiff (not hard) bristle brushes
- More thorough rinsing
- Occasional deep cleaning with pressure washer (low setting)