Top 5 Rubber Car Mat Cleaners: A Quick Review

Does the sight of muddy, grimy rubber floor mats make you cringe? You know they protect your car’s carpet, but cleaning them often feels like a bigger chore than it should be. Picking the perfect rubber car mat cleaner can be confusing. Should you use a harsh chemical, or something gentler? Many products promise deep cleaning, but often leave behind a sticky residue or, worse, damage the rubber over time.

The truth is, the wrong cleaner can make your mats look worse, attracting even more dirt next time. You want mats that look almost new without endless scrubbing. That is why we dove deep into the world of rubber mat maintenance.

This guide cuts through the confusion. We will show you exactly what works best for deep cleaning, restoring that factory-fresh look, and keeping your mats protected. Keep reading to discover the top cleaners and simple steps that will transform your dirty rubber mats into spotless surfaces!

Top Rubber Car Mat Cleaner Recommendations

Bestseller No. 1

Chemical Guys Mat Renew Rubber and Vinyl Car Floor Mat Cleaner & Protectant - Cleans & Restores Rubber Liners, Running Boards, Safe for Cars, Trucks, SUVs, and More - 16 oz

MAT RENEW CLEANER & PROTECTANT (CLD_700_16) – This car mat cleaner cleans and restores rubber and vinyl floor mats, liners, and running boards while leaving a dry-to-the-touch non-slip finish
SAFE FOR RUBBER AND VINYL – This rubber floor cleaner removes dirt, mud, grime, and road salt without fading, cracking, or discoloring the surface
RESTORES FACTORY APPEARANCE – Revives dull, worn automotive floor mats & cargo liners to their original deep black color and supple texture for a like-new look
PROTECTS AGAINST FUTURE WEAR – Car interior cleaner for mats leaves behind a layer of protection to help resist fading, staining, and cracking from daily use and environmental exposure
EASY TO USE – Spray this Chemical Guys interior cleaner directly onto car floor mats, scrub with a detailer brush, and wipe clean for professional detailing results in minutes

SaleBestseller No. 2

Adam's Polishes Rubber Mat & Liner Cleaner 16oz Protectant & Rubber Floor Mat Cleaning Solution for Car Detailing | Deep Cleans & Restores Mats, Truck Bed Cargo Liners, Trunk Mat Accessories & More

✅ CITRUS-BASED CAR CLEANING FORMULA - Specialized formulation rubber liner & floor mat cleaner restores your floor mats and liners back to a rich, deep black OEM finish. Adam’s Rubber Mat & Liner Cleaner is equipped with a special blend of surfactants & cleaners that removes harsh oxidation, dirt, and grime from rubber floor mats
✅ NON-SLIP PROTECTANT & CLEANER - Adam’s Rubber Floor Mat & Liner Cleaner is a solvent-based degreaser that gets to work fast on heavily soiled floor mats. Infused with a non-slip protectant so your floor mats are functional and not too slippery to use.
✅ USE WITH ADAM’S TIRE BRUSH OR ANY ALL PURPOSE BRUSH - The process for cleaning your rubber floor mats is simple, however the choices that you make in selecting your car cleaning supplies is crucial for optimal results. Pair with a quality brush for optimal results.
✅ FOAM ACTIVATED FORMULA - This advanced formula is designed to foam when agitated to maximize cleaning and dirt removing abilities. Simply spray directly on your rubber floor mats & liners, agitate with a brush until foamy, then rinse away for a brand new floor mat look.
✅ 110% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE & USA MADE - At Adam’s, we strive to bring the BEST car cleaning supplies, auto detailing kits, washing accessories, microfiber towels, waxes, sealants, ceramic coatings, mops, brushes, mitts, sponges, garage tools, applicators & other high-quality car cleaning products to the car care industry. If you are not satisfied, let us know & we’ll do everything we can to make it right!

Bestseller No. 3

Chemical Guys Mat Renew Rubber + Vinyl Floor Mat Cleaner And Protectant, Safe for Cars, Trucks, SUVs, Motorcycles, RVs & More, Extra Large 32 fl oz

RESTORE MATS BACK TO NEW - Mat ReNew Cleaner and Protectant is the first product designed specifically to quickly clean and restore rubber floor mats back to original condition without the greasy and slippery feel and look.
CLEANING POWER - Mat ReNew breaks down and releases dirt, oil, grease, grime, and food and beverage residue from rubber floor mats.
THE SAFEST WAY TO CLEAN YOUR MATS - Mat ReNew Cleaner and Protectant is silicone-free, and finishes dry to the touch. Mat ReNew adds no extra slippery feel, and is safe for use on rubber and vinyl floor mats.
FOR EXTERIOR RUNNING BOARDS TOO - Use Mat ReNew to clean and condition exterior running boards on large SUVs and trucks, and exterior truck bed liners.
THE GO TO BRAND IN CAR CARE - Beginners and professionals alike choose Chemical Guys, not only for the finest car care products, but the world class customer support and vast detailing knowledge Chemical Guys is more than a brand it's a lifestyle with a worldwide following

Bestseller No. 4

Viking Carpet Cleaning and Scrub Brush for Floor Mats, Cleaning Brush for Car Interior and Home, Black and Blue, 8.3 inch x 2.5 Inch

Carpet Brush measuring 8.3 inches long and 2.5 inches wide with a special design for cleaning car mats, foot wells, and floor liners
The short and stiff bristles of this detailing brush quickly agitate and loosen dirt and debris from carpeted areas
Long, ergonomic handle makes this stiff-bristled brush easy to use and tough on stains
Use the car interior cleaner brush wet with your favorite carpet cleaner or car cleaning supplies
This brush isn’t only for your car cleaning kit; Perfect to use on an area rug or other small rug in your home or RV

SaleBestseller No. 5

Adam's Polishes Rubber Mat & Liner Protectant (Cleaner & Protectant Combo)

✅ PAIRS WITH ADAM'S RUBBER MAT & LINER CLEANER - Maximize the efficacy of Adam's Rubber Mat & Liner Protectant by using it in conjunction with Adam's Rubber Mat & Liner Cleaner. This perfect pairing ensures a comprehensive cleaning and protection regimen for your floor mats and liners. The protectant's formulation is specifically designed to complement the cleaner, enhancing its protective capabilities for a thorough maintenance routine.
✅ GENERATES A DURABLE, NON-SLIPPERY, SATIN FINISH - Crafted with actively cross-linking acrylic polymers, Adam's Rubber Mat & Liner Protectant delivers an enduring, non-slippery finish. Unlike conventional protectants, this product creates a long-lasting, satin-like appearance that rejuvenates and darkens the mats, restoring them to a like-new condition.
✅ NEVER GREASY OR STICKY - Our protectant has a non-greasy and non-sticky finish. This unique formulation prevents the surface from becoming overly glossy or sticky, delivering a balanced and comfortable touch. You'll appreciate the absence of any residual greasiness or stickiness, providing a pleasant and hassle-free user experience.
✅ WATER-BASED WITH ACTIVE POLYMERS - The water-based formula of Adam's Rubber Mat & Liner Protectant contains active acrylic polymers that swiftly dry upon application. This innovative formulation ensures quick drying without leaving behind any visible residue. The protectant penetrates the surface, forming an invisible, colorless layer that shields your mats against wear, tear, and staining. Unlike some glossy protectants, this product offers a subtle, non-glossy finish, preserving the natural appearance of the mats while effectively safeguarding them against environmental elements.
✅ 110% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE & USA MADE - At Adam’s, we strive to bring the BEST car cleaning supplies, auto detailing kits, washing accessories, microfiber towels, waxes, sealants, ceramic coatings, mops, brushes, mitts, sponges, garage tools, applicators & other high-quality car cleaning products to the car care industry. If you are not satisfied, let us know & we’ll do everything we can to make it right!

SaleBestseller No. 6

Adam's Polishes Rubber Mat & Liner Cleaner 2-Pack Protectant & Rubber Floor Mat Cleaning Solution for Car Detailing, Deep Cleans & Restores Mats, Truck Bed Cargo Liners

✅ CITRUS-BASED CAR CLEANING FORMULA - Specialized formulation rubber liner & floor mat cleaner restores your floor mats and liners back to a rich, deep black OEM finish. Adam’s Rubber Mat & Liner Cleaner is equipped with a special blend of surfactants & cleaners that removes harsh oxidation, dirt, and grime from rubber floor mats
✅ NON-SLIP PROTECTANT & CLEANER - Adam’s Rubber Floor Mat & Liner Cleaner is a solvent-based degreaser that gets to work fast on heavily soiled floor mats. Infused with a non-slip protectant so your floor mats are functional and not too slippery to use.
✅ USE WITH ADAM’S TIRE BRUSH OR ANY ALL PURPOSE BRUSH - The process for cleaning your rubber floor mats is simple, however the choices that you make in selecting your car cleaning supplies is crucial for optimal results. Pair with a quality brush for optimal results.
✅ FOAM ACTIVATED FORMULA - This advanced formula is designed to foam when agitated to maximize cleaning and dirt removing abilities. Simply spray directly on your rubber floor mats & liners, agitate with a brush until foamy, then rinse away for a brand new floor mat look.
✅ 110% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE & USA MADE - At Adam’s, we strive to bring the BEST car cleaning supplies, auto detailing kits, washing accessories, microfiber towels, waxes, sealants, ceramic coatings, mops, brushes, mitts, sponges, garage tools, applicators & other high-quality car cleaning products to the car care industry. If you are not satisfied, let us know & we’ll do everything we can to make it right!

Bestseller No. 7

Meguiar's Foaming Floor Mat + Carpet Cleaner, 16oz BT, 6/CV

EFFECTIVE CLEANING FORMULA: This premium auto carpet cleaner spray is formulated with a high-foaming action to thoroughly clean all types of floor mats & automotive carpets. Use with a towel, brush, or drill brush attachment for effective cleaning
QUICKLY CLEANS: This specialized formula is a high foam cleaner for car interiors that’s fast-acting to quickly remove tough dirt, daily grime, many spills, and more. After use, it leaves behind a clean & original appearance
INTERIOR CARPET & UPHOLSTERY FOAM: Not only does this product excel as a carpet and upholstery cleaner, but it is also the perfect choice for all types of floor mats, including rubber, synthetic, and carpet. This advanced formula also removes tough stains
CAR CARPET CLEANER: Are the floor mats and carpet in your car looking a little dirty with staining? Restore fabric, carpet, upholstery, and floor mats to their like-new former glory. Remove dirt, grime, and staining for professional detailing results
PLEASANT TO WORK WITH: Some car interior cleaner formulas have an overpowering or unpleasant scent, making them less desirable to work with. Not this interior cleaner, Meguiar's Foaming Floormat & Carpet Cleaner is pleasant to work with & delivers results

Bestseller No. 8

Chemical Guys Total Interior Cleaner & Protectant Interior Cleaner, Cleans & Protects Leather, Vinyl, Plastic, Rubber, Glass with a Streak-Free Finish — Cars, Trucks, SUVs, RVs, 16 oz

ALL-IN-ONE CAR INTERIOR CLEANER (SPI22016) – Favored by car care enthusiasts and detailers nationwide, this versatile formula cleans and protects leather, vinyl, plastic, rubber, and glass for a fresh, streak-free finish
SAFE ON MULTIPLE SURFACES – Interior car cleaner designed for dashboards, door panels, seats, trim, infotainment screens, and more; gently lifts dirt, dust, and body oils without causing fading or damage
CLEANS AND PROTECTS – This car cleaner interior removes grime, restores a natural look while leaving behind a layer of protection to help resist dust, fingerprints, everyday wear
QUICK AND EASY APPLICATION – Simply spray and wipe to clean; no rinsing or extra buffing required, making this car detailing spray perfect for fast touch-ups or full interior detailing
FRESH OEM-STYLE FINISH – This auto interior cleaner leaves surfaces looking factory-fresh with a natural sheen, never greasy or slippery, so your interior stays looking new and inviting

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Rubber Car Mat Cleaners

Rubber car mats keep your vehicle’s carpet clean. They trap dirt, mud, and spills. Over time, these mats look dull and dirty. A good rubber car mat cleaner brings back their deep, rich look. Choosing the right cleaner makes a big difference. This guide helps you find the best one for your needs.

Key Features to Look For

When shopping for a rubber mat cleaner, look for specific features that guarantee great results and easy use.

Cleaning Power

Dirt and Grime Removal: The cleaner must break down tough, caked-on dirt and dried mud easily.
Stain Fighting: Look for formulas that specifically target oil stains, salt lines (from winter), and beverage spills.

Finish and Appearance

Non-Greasy Shine: The best cleaners clean thoroughly and leave a natural, low-gloss finish. Avoid products that leave behind a sticky, oily residue that attracts more dirt quickly.
UV Protection: Quality cleaners often include UV blockers. These features help prevent the rubber from drying out, cracking, and fading under the hot sun.

Safety and Smell

Rubber Safe: Ensure the product is pH-neutral or specifically labeled as safe for all types of automotive rubber and vinyl. Harsh chemicals can damage the material over time.
Odor Elimination: Since mats can hold smells (like wet dog or old spills), choose a cleaner that neutralizes odors rather than just masking them with strong perfumes.

Important Materials in Your Cleaner

The ingredients determine how well the cleaner works and if it harms your mats.

What to Look For:

Surfactants: These are the active cleaning agents. They lift dirt away from the rubber surface. Look for mild, biodegradable surfactants for better environmental safety.
Conditioning Agents: Ingredients like natural oils or specific polymers help keep the rubber supple and prevent it from becoming brittle.

What to Avoid:

Harsh Solvents: Strong petroleum-based solvents can dry out the rubber, causing premature cracking.
Excessive Dyes: While some color is okay, avoid cleaners with bright artificial dyes, as these can sometimes transfer slightly onto light-colored interior carpets if you accidentally splash them.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

The quality of the cleaner directly affects how much work you need to do.

Quality Boosters:

Foaming Action: Cleaners that foam well cling better to vertical surfaces of the mat, giving the active ingredients more time to work on tough spots.
Concentration: Highly concentrated formulas mean you use less product per wash, offering better value.

Quality Reducers:

Residue: If a cleaner requires heavy rinsing to remove soapiness, it often leaves behind a hazy film. This film traps new dirt instantly.
Weak Penetration: Cleaners that only work on the surface soil poorly on deeply embedded mud or tracked-in road salt.

User Experience and Use Cases

How you use the cleaner matters just as much as what you buy.

Easy Application:

Spray-and-wipe formulas are excellent for quick touch-ups. If your mats are extremely filthy (after a muddy camping trip, for example), you will need a stronger, soak-and-scrub cleaner that you can agitate with a stiff brush.

Versatility:

The best products work well on both heavy-duty rubber floor liners and thinner, all-weather mats. Some premium cleaners also safely work on plastic trim pieces around the door jambs.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Rubber Car Mat Cleaners

Q: How often should I clean my rubber mats?

A: You should clean them whenever they look visibly dirty, usually every few weeks if you drive daily. Deep cleaning should happen seasonally.

Q: Can I use dish soap instead of a real mat cleaner?

A: You can for emergencies, but dish soap strips the natural oils from the rubber, making it dry and potentially cracked over time. A dedicated cleaner conditions the rubber.

Q: Do I need to rinse the cleaner off completely?

A: Yes, most cleaners require a thorough rinse with water to remove all loosened dirt and cleaning agents. Residue attracts more grime.

Q: Will this cleaner remove black scuff marks from my shoes?

A: Many quality cleaners lift light scuffs. For deep, rubber-on-rubber marks, you might need a specialized rubber restorer after cleaning.

Q: Is it safe to use a pressure washer on the mats after applying the cleaner?

A: Low-pressure rinsing is usually fine. Avoid very high-pressure settings, as they can force water into the seams or potentially damage the mat texture.

Q: What is the best way to dry the mats?

A: Let them air dry completely in the sun or a well-ventilated area before putting them back in the car. Putting wet mats back traps moisture and can cause mildew smells.

Q: Does a ‘super shiny’ product mean it’s a better cleaner?

A: Not necessarily. High shine often means the product leaves a coating behind. A good cleaner provides a deep clean with a low, factory-like sheen.

Q: Can I use this cleaner on carpet floor mats?

A: No. Rubber mat cleaners are formulated differently than carpet cleaners. Using a rubber product on fabric mats might leave behind oils or residues that are hard to remove from carpet fibers.

Q: How do I handle winter salt stains?

A: Salt requires a cleaner with mild acidic properties or strong degreasers. Soak the heavily salted areas for a few minutes before scrubbing vigorously.

Q: Does the cleaner prevent mats from smelling?

A: Yes, good cleaners contain odor neutralizers. They break down the source of the smell, not just cover it up with a fragrance.