Keeping your RAM's interior clean is essential for comfort and maintaining its value, and that includes regularly cleaning the floor mats. The process involves a few simple yet effective steps to remove dirt, grime, and restore their freshness.
How Do You Clean RAM Floor Mats?
To effectively clean RAM floor mats, you'll need to first remove loose debris by shaking and vacuuming, then apply a suitable cleaner, scrub problem areas, and rinse thoroughly before allowing them to dry completely.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Fabric/Carpet RAM Floor Mats
For RAMs equipped with fabric or carpet floor mats, a more thorough cleaning approach is needed to tackle embedded dirt and stains.
1. Preparation: Remove Loose Debris
- Take Mats Out: Begin by removing all floor mats from your RAM vehicle. This allows for easier access and prevents re-soiling the car's interior.
- Shake and Beat: Take each mat outside and shake it vigorously. For stubborn, caked-on dirt or dried mud, hit the floor mats against a hard surface (like a wall or post) to dislodge as much dirt, dust, and larger particles as possible. This is a crucial first step to loosen deeply embedded debris.
- Initial Vacuum: After shaking, use a strong vacuum cleaner to thoroughly vacuum both sides of the mats. Focus on areas where dirt tends to accumulate, ensuring you remove all remaining fine dust and dirt embedded in the fibers.
2. Apply Cleaner and Scrub
- Choose Your Cleaner: Select a dedicated carpet floor mat cleaner or an automotive interior shampoo. Always read and follow the specific instructions on the cleaner's container regarding dilution and application.
- Even Application: Spray or apply the cleaner evenly across the entire surface of the mat, ensuring good coverage, particularly on soiled areas.
- Scrub Thoroughly: Using a suitable brush (a stiff-bristled interior detailing brush is ideal), scrub the mats with firm, even strokes. Pay special attention to any problem areas, stains, or heavily soiled spots, working the cleaner deep into the fabric fibers to lift the dirt. For a comprehensive guide on interior cleaning, you might find general car detailing tips helpful.
3. Rinse Thoroughly
- Remove Residue: After scrubbing, it is critical to rinse the mats with clean water to remove all cleaning solution and loosened dirt.
- Rinsing Methods:
- Hose: A garden hose on a low-pressure setting can be used to thoroughly rinse the mats.
- Wet/Dry Vacuum: Alternatively, a wet/dry vacuum can effectively extract the cleaner and dirty water, leaving the mats less saturated.
- Check for Cleanliness: Ensure no soap residue remains, as leftover cleaner can attract new dirt more quickly and leave the mats feeling stiff.
4. Dry Completely
- Air Dry: Allow the mats to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area. Hanging them up can help promote airflow.
- Avoid Direct Sun: While drying, avoid direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can potentially fade the color of your mats over time.
- Prevent Mildew: It is absolutely essential that the mats are 100% dry before placing them back into your RAM. Placing damp mats in your vehicle can lead to mildew growth, an unpleasant musty odor, and potential damage to your vehicle's carpet.
Quick Cleaning Steps for Fabric/Carpet RAM Floor Mats
| Step | Action | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Remove & Shake | Dislodge large debris |
| 2. | Vacuum | Remove fine dust & dirt |
| 3. | Apply Cleaner | Use dedicated carpet cleaner |
| 4. | Scrub | Target problem areas with a brush |
| 5. | Rinse | Use clean water; remove all residue |
| 6. | Dry | Air dry completely before re-installing |
Cleaning All-Weather (Rubber or Vinyl) RAM Floor Mats
All-weather mats, made from rubber or vinyl, are designed for durability and are generally easier to clean.
- Remove & Shake: Take the mats out of the vehicle and shake off any loose dirt, gravel, or debris.
- Rinse: Use a hose to thoroughly rinse the mats with plain water. This will remove most of the surface grime.
- Clean: For tougher dirt or stains, spray an all-purpose cleaner, a dedicated rubber floor mat cleaner, or even just mild soap and water onto the mats.
- Scrub: Use a stiff brush to scrub the mats, paying attention to textured areas where dirt can get trapped.
- Rinse Again: Rinse the mats thoroughly with clean water to remove all cleaning solution.
- Dry: Air dry completely or wipe them down with a clean towel. For an extra touch, consider applying a rubber protectant to keep them looking new and prevent cracking.
Essential Tips for Mat Maintenance
- Regular Cleaning: Don't wait until mats are heavily soiled. Regular vacuuming and occasional deep cleaning will extend their life and keep your interior fresh.
- Spot Cleaning: Address spills and stains immediately with a suitable spot cleaner to prevent them from setting.
- Protectants: For all-weather mats, applying a UV protectant can help prevent fading and cracking over time.
- Rotation: If your mats are identical, rotating them can help even out wear and tear.
By following these steps, your RAM floor mats will stay clean, extending their lifespan and contributing to a more pleasant driving experience.
