How to Clean Rubber Matting: Step-by-Step UK Guide
Last updated: April 2026
Last updated: April 2026
Browse our complete range of gym flooring UK — rubber tiles, rolls and mats for home and commercial gyms. Free UK delivery.
How to Clean Rubber Matting
To clean rubber matting: sweep loose debris, mop with warm water and mild detergent (pH-neutral, not bleach), scrub stubborn stains with a stiff brush, rinse thoroughly, and allow to dry completely before use. For stable mats, a pressure washer on low setting works well. Avoid solvents, bleach, and silicone-based cleaners — these degrade rubber over time.
Step-by-Step Rubber Matting Cleaning Guide
- Remove loose debris — Sweep or vacuum the rubber surface to remove dust, dirt, hair, and loose material. For outdoor or stable mats, use a stiff brush or broom.
- Mix your cleaning solution — Use warm water with a few drops of pH-neutral dish soap or a specialist rubber floor cleaner. Avoid bleach (degrades rubber), ammonia-based cleaners, or oil-based products.
- Mop or scrub the surface — For smooth rubber matting, a microfibre mop works well. For textured or raised-stud rubber, use a scrubbing brush to work the solution into the grooves.
- Treat stubborn stains — Apply a paste of bicarbonate of soda and water to oil stains; leave for 10 minutes then scrub. For scuff marks, a melamine sponge (magic eraser) works on most rubber surfaces without damage.
- Rinse thoroughly — Remove all soap residue with clean warm water. Soap left on rubber matting attracts more dirt and can make surfaces slippery when wet.
- Dry the surface — Use a squeegee to remove excess water, then allow to air dry. In gyms and high-use areas, ensure mats are fully dry before use to prevent slip hazards.
- Apply rubber conditioner (optional) — For premium rubber matting, a rubber conditioner applied every 6–12 months keeps the material supple and extends lifespan.
Cleaning Frequency by Environment
| Environment | Daily | Weekly | Monthly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial Gym | Sweep + spot clean | Full mop | Deep scrub |
| Home Gym | Wipe down | Mop | Full deep clean |
| Horse Stables | Scrape + sweep | Pressure wash | Lift and clean underneath |
| Entrance Matting | Vacuum/sweep | Mop | Full shampoo |
| Industrial Floor | Brush | Mop with degreaser | Deep scrub |
| Kitchen Anti-Fatigue | Wipe + rinse | Full clean + sanitise | Lift and clean underneath |
What NOT to Use on Rubber Matting
- Bleach — Degrades SBR and EPDM rubber, causes cracking and discolouration
- Ammonia-based cleaners — Strip the surface coating and cause premature wear
- Silicone sprays — Make rubber dangerously slippery when wet
- Petrol or white spirit — Solvents dissolve the rubber compound
- Very hot water (above 60°C) — Can cause rubber to warp or delaminate from backing
- Acetone or nail varnish remover — Attacks the rubber surface, causes permanent damage
How to Clean Different Types of Rubber Matting
Gym Rubber Tiles and Rolls
Gym mats accumulate sweat, chalk, and shoe rubber marks. Use a specialist gym floor cleaner or diluted white vinegar (1:4 with water) for weekly cleans. This is effective against bacteria without damaging the rubber compound. For heavily soiled commercial gyms, a rotary scrubber with a soft pad works efficiently across large areas.
Stable Mats
Stable mats need lifting 2–4 times per year for proper deep cleaning. Pressure wash both sides at medium pressure (not high), allow to dry fully before reinstalling, and check the substrate for moisture or mould underneath. A rubber-safe disinfectant (iodine-based or accelerated hydrogen peroxide) can be used after washing for biosecurity.
Entrance Matting
Entrance mats handle the most soil load. A wet/dry vacuum is ideal for initial cleaning, followed by a hot water extraction clean (carpet cleaner style) monthly in high-traffic commercial buildings. For rubber-backed entrance mats, avoid soaking — clean the top surface only and allow thorough drying before replacing.
Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Mats
Kitchen anti-fatigue mats accumulate grease and food residue. Use a food-safe degreaser (diluted) and scrub thoroughly. Always sanitise with a food-safe disinfectant after cleaning in commercial kitchens. Rinse and allow to air dry flat — do not fold or stack wet mats.
Outdoor Rubber Matting
Outdoor rubber can be cleaned with a garden hose or low-pressure washer. Algae and moss can be removed with a diluted outdoor cleaner (not bleach). For decking rubber strips, a stiff deck brush with soapy water works well — always rinse to prevent soap residue making the surface slippery.
Rubber Matting Cleaning Products: What Actually Works
| Cleaning Task | Recommended Product | Dilution | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| General clean | pH-neutral floor cleaner | 1:50 with water | Weekly |
| Gym mat disinfection | White vinegar solution | 1:4 with water | Weekly |
| Oil/grease stains | Washing-up liquid or degreaser | Neat on stain | As needed |
| Stable mat sanitising | Iodine-based disinfectant | Per label | Monthly |
| Kitchen mat sanitising | Food-safe QAC disinfectant | Per label | Daily |
| Outdoor algae/moss | Patio cleaner (chlorine-free) | 1:10 | Seasonally |
How to Extend the Life of Your Rubber Matting
Proper cleaning is only one part of extending matting lifespan. Additional steps to maximise durability:
- Rotate reversible mats periodically to even out wear patterns
- Apply a rubber protector/conditioner annually on indoor premium mats
- Avoid dragging heavy equipment across rubber — lift and place
- Ensure substrate is clean and dry before laying — moisture under mats causes mould
- Remove outdoor mats in extreme winter weather if possible
Cleaning Rubber Matting FAQ
Can I use a pressure washer on rubber matting?
Yes, on outdoor rubber, stable mats, and heavy-duty matting. Use medium pressure (1500–2000 PSI) and keep the nozzle moving. Avoid high-pressure on thin indoor mats as it can damage edges and cause lifting.
How do I remove oil stains from rubber matting?
Apply a degreaser or washing-up liquid directly, work in with a brush, leave for 5 minutes, then rinse. For old set-in oil stains, a bicarbonate of soda paste left for 30 minutes before scrubbing is effective.
How often should I deep clean rubber gym flooring?
Commercial gyms: monthly deep clean minimum. Home gyms: every 1–3 months depending on use. Regular sweeping and weekly mopping significantly reduces how often a full deep clean is needed.
Can I put rubber mats in a washing machine?
Small rubber-backed rugs can sometimes be machine washed on a gentle cycle, but most rubber matting is too large and too heavy. Machine washing can also damage the rubber backing over time. Hand washing is safer and more effective for most rubber mats.
Why does my rubber matting smell after cleaning?
A temporary smell after cleaning is usually from the rubber compound reacting with soap residue or moisture. Ensure thorough rinsing and allow the mat to dry completely in fresh air. If the smell persists, a diluted white vinegar rinse (1:4) helps neutralise odours without damaging the rubber.
How do I clean rubber matting that has gone sticky?
Stickiness is usually caused by the rubber compound degrading — often from contact with oils, incompatible cleaning products, or age. Clean with warm soapy water and a nylon brush. If stickiness persists after cleaning, the surface may be breaking down and replacement should be considered. This is more common with cheap nitrile-free rubber grades.
Can I use steam cleaners on rubber matting?
Steam cleaning is not recommended for most rubber matting. The high heat (typically 100–120°C) can cause rubber to swell, warp, or delaminate from backing material. Stick to warm water (below 60°C) for safe effective cleaning.
🛒 Shop Easy-Clean Rubber Matting
Browse our range of rubber mats and matting, all cleanable with standard products:
- → Rubber Matting UK — heavy duty rolls and cut lengths
- → Gym Flooring — easy-clean rubber tiles and rolls for sports areas
- → Stable Mats UK — easy-clean horse and equestrian rubber matting
- → Anti-Fatigue Mats — kitchen and workshop matting, easy to maintain
James Ashworth
Head of Flooring Specifications, Rubberco
James has 18 years of experience in commercial rubber flooring and was formerly a technical adviser to the British Contract Flooring Association (BCFA). He specialises in HSE compliance, gym flooring specification and industrial rubber matting. Read James's full profile →
Shop Related Rubber Flooring & Matting
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a pressure washer on rubber matting?
Yes, on outdoor rubber, stable mats, and heavy-duty matting. Use medium pressure (1500–2000 PSI) and keep the nozzle moving. Avoid high-pressure on thin indoor mats as it can damage edges and cause lifting.
How do I remove oil stains from rubber matting?
Apply a degreaser or washing-up liquid directly, work in with a brush, leave for 5 minutes, then rinse. For old set-in oil stains, a bicarbonate of soda paste left for 30 minutes before scrubbing is effective.
How often should I deep clean rubber gym flooring?
Commercial gyms: monthly deep clean minimum. Home gyms: every 1–3 months depending on use. Regular sweeping and weekly mopping significantly reduces how often a full deep clean is needed.
Can I put rubber mats in a washing machine?
Small rubber-backed rugs can sometimes be machine washed on a gentle cycle, but most rubber matting is too large and too heavy. Machine washing can also damage the rubber backing over time. Hand washing is safer and more effective for most rubber mats.
Why does my rubber matting smell after cleaning?
A temporary smell after cleaning is usually from the rubber compound reacting with soap residue or moisture. Ensure thorough rinsing and allow the mat to dry completely in fresh air. If the smell persists, a diluted white vinegar rinse (1:4) helps neutralise odours without damaging the rubber.
How do I clean rubber matting that has gone sticky?
Stickiness is usually caused by the rubber compound degrading — often from contact with oils, incompatible cleaning products, or age. Clean with warm soapy water and a nylon brush. If stickiness persists after cleaning, the surface may be breaking down and replacement should be considered. This is more common with cheap nitrile-free rubber grades.
Can I use steam cleaners on rubber matting?
Steam cleaning is not recommended for most rubber matting. The high heat (typically 100–120°C) can cause rubber to swell, warp, or delaminate from backing material. Stick to warm water (below 60°C) for safe effective cleaning.
🛒 Shop Easy-Clean Rubber Matting
Browse our range of rubber mats and matting, all cleanable with standard products:
Shop Rubber Flooring at Rubberco
Rolls, tiles & mats for gyms, garages, industry & commercial use. Cut to any size. R11 rated. Free UK delivery.
View Rubber Flooring Range →Shop Rubber Sheet at Rubberco
SBR, EPDM, nitrile, neoprene & silicone rubber sheet. 0.5–25mm. Cut to any size. Free UK delivery.
View Rubber Sheet Range →
