How To Clean A Doormat

Your doormat is the first line of defence for keeping dirt and debris out of your home. But after a while, it needs a bit of TLC to maintain its effectiveness and appearance. If you’re wondering how to clean a doormat properly, this guide will walk you through the process with simple, effective steps. Let’s get started!

Why You Should Clean Your Doormat Regularly

Cleaning your doormat isn’t just about keeping it looking fresh. It also helps improve hygiene by preventing dirt, allergens, and bacteria from being tracked indoors. A clean doormat can protect your flooring by capturing dirt more effectively, preventing damage to the surfaces inside your home.

Regularly cleaning your doormat also extends its lifespan. Whether it's a bristle doormat or a fabric one, a little upkeep will help maintain its functionality and appearance for longer, saving you money in the long run.

What You’ll Need to Clean Your Doormat

Before you begin cleaning your doormat, gather these supplies.

Basic Supplies for Cleaning a Doormat

A stiff-bristle brush or broom

Mild detergent or dish soap

Water (either a hose or bucket of water)

Vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment

Rubber gloves (optional, for sensitive skin)

Scrubbing brush (for deeper stains)

A place to dry the mat flat

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning a Doormat

Now that you have your cleaning supplies ready, follow these simple steps.

Step 1: Shake Out the Dirt

Take your doormat outside and give it a vigorous shake. This will help remove loose dirt, dust, and debris trapped in the fibres. For best results, hold the mat firmly and hit it against a hard surface like a wall or railing.

Step 2: Vacuum Both Sides

After shaking out the loose debris, vacuum both sides of the doormat. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to lift embedded dirt. Pay special attention to the bottom side, as dirt tends to get stuck there which reduces the doormat's grip on the floor.

Step 3: Scrub and Wash (For Fabric or Rubber Mats)

If you have a Ruggable doormat, you can simply put it in the washing machine on a cool wash, and it will come out good as new. But if your doormat just needs a spot clean, or if it’s very dirty and needs built-up debris removed, it’s a good idea to give it a handwash.

For fabric or rubber doormats, mix a small amount of mild detergent or dish soap with warm water. Use a scrub brush to clean the surface, working in circular motions. Be sure to rinse the mat thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. If the doormat is especially dirty, you can also use a hose to rinse off excess dirt.

For bristle doormats, use the stiff-bristle brush to gently scrub away any dirt. Bristle mats are usually made to withstand rougher cleaning, but be careful not to be too harsh, as you don’t want to damage the fibres.

Step 4: Dry the Doormat

After scrubbing, allow your doormat to air dry completely before placing it back in front of your door. If it's made of rubber or fabric, hang it up on a railing or clothesline. Make sure it’s flat to prevent creasing, and avoid direct sunlight which can cause discolouration. Don’t place the mat back on your doorstep while it’s still damp, as this can lead to mould and mildew growth. Wait until it’s totally dry before returning to its nonslip pad.

How Often Should You Clean Your Doormat?

Regular cleaning keeps your doormat functioning effectively and looking good, whether it’s welcoming guests or simply keeping dirt at bay. The frequency of cleaning depends on the type of doormat and where it's placed. Here’s a quick guide:

Outdoor Doormats: Clean at least once every two weeks, especially during rainy or snowy seasons, when they collect more moisture and mud.

Indoor Doormats: Every three to four weeks should suffice, but increase this frequency if your household sees a lot of foot traffic.

Bristle Doormats: These can handle a heavier load of dirt and should be cleaned monthly.

Reduce Hassle with our Machine Washable Rugs

If maintaining a doormat feels like a hassle, why not try our machine washable rugs? With Ruggable's washable rugs, cleaning becomes a breeze. Just pop them in the washing machine, and they’ll come out looking as good as new. Not only do they make cleaning more convenient, but they also retain their quality after repeated washes.

Discover how our machine washable rugs work by checking out our machine wash guide.