Your car really goes through it. You and the family track in dirt, mud, pollen, debris, spill food and beverages, and create a mess that can end up bringing down your vehicle’s resale value. So why not protect your investment by using the best car floor mats to keep the interior intact?
Shopping around, you’ll notice there are dozens of sets to choose from, but finding that right set, one that’s durable, attractive, and can offer the type of protection your car’s carpet needs, isn’t as easy as it sounds. Because of this, I decided to test out many of the leading sets of floor mats on the market, narrowing it down to four sets that are built tough and perfect for a wide range of carpet styles. I’ve also put together an in-depth buyer’s guide that lists many of the features you’ll want to pay attention to, so you can be sure you purchase the right type of floor mats for your vehicle. Below, you’ll find a comparison chart that includes each of the models that made it onto my must-have list, including their rating and best features
Car Floor Mats Comparison Chart
| Product | Material | Pieces | Colors | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Motor Trend Car Floor Mats Set  Shop On Amazon! |
Rubber | 4 | 3 | |
AmazonBasics Rubber Floor Mats  Shop On Amazon! |
Rubber | 3 | 3 | |
YITAMOTOR Floor Mats  Shop On Amazon! |
Rubber | 3 | 1 | |
BDK MT202 Carpet Floor Mats  Shop On Amazon! |
Carpet | 4 | 7 |
Motor Trend Car Floor Mats Set
Our Rating:
The latest tortoise mats by Motor Trend are designed with durability in mind. The mats are heavy, thick, and include a trunk/cargo mat, two front mats, and a rear liner. The rubber is 100% odorless. The mats are also semi-custom, so you can trim them to fit the footwells perfectly. This set is easy to clean and features flexible contours so they will slide right in. They’re a great choice for anyone looking for all-weather mats.
Pros
- Durable
- Four-piece set
- All-weather design
- Odorless
Cons
- 3 color options only
- 1 size option
Conclusion
This mat set will work to protect your vehicle’s carpet from stains and spills. They’re durable, semi-customizable, and are available in three color options, so you can choose one that will complement the interior of your vehicle.
Amazon Basics 3-Piece All-Season Rubber Floor Mats
Our Rating:
These rubber floor mats are perfect for every season. The set consists of three pieces, including one full-coverage back mat, and two mats for the front. The rubber is odorless and BPA-free. The mats are also fade-resistant and will not warp, split, or crack in harsh conditions. The ergonomic design consists of non-slip grooves that will improve foot traction in wet weather. The bottom of the mats are equipped with anti-slip rubber spikes, designed to keep the mats securely in place. This set is also covered by a one-year warranty, which will give shoppers a huge incentive to buy.
Pros
- Rubberized spikes on back prevent mats from sliding
- Odorless BPA-free rubber
- Durable
- Fade-resistant
Cons
- Rear mat is very small
Conclusion
Built tough and perfect for all-year use, these mats will not move or slide as you get in and out of your vehicle, thanks to the rubber spike backing. They’re a great choice if you’re looking for some basic mats that are thick, durable, and designed to not fade, wear, or crack, and can take on any type of weather condition.
YITAMOTOR Floor Mats
Our Rating:
These mats are designed to fit Honda Accord Sedans from 2013-2017. Additionally, these mats are not designed for vehicles with vinyl floors. The mats are made out of nontoxic materials and do not contain lead, cadmium, or latex. They’re designed to provide all-weather protection and feature a non-slippery design. The mats are designed to be easy to clean, simply spray them down with a hose and shake them out, leaving them on a flat surface to air dry in the sun. Their thickness is what makes them so durable, while the unique channels on the surface will trap sand, dirt, snow, and liquids, protecting your interior against spills.
Pros
- Durable
- Channel design traps spills
- Made out of nontoxic materials
- All-weather use
Cons
- Only compatible with Honda Accords
- Not designed for use on vinyl floors
Conclusion
These mats utilize advanced technology and provide all-weather protection from sand, mud, spills, and snow. They’re only compatible with Honda Accords, and cannot be used in vehicles with vinyl flooring, which will be a deal breaker for some potential buyers. Overall, the all-weather design and their top of the line durability are what makes this set a top seller.
BDK MT202 Fresh Carpet Floor Mats
Our Rating:
These carpet car mats can handle mud, snow, and rain. They’re equipped with ergonomic grooves that provide comfort and improved foot traction, while also working to trap liquids and minimize messes caused by spills and wet weather. The heel rest station consists of a thick pad that’s made to improve the driver’s traction and comfort. These mats are also available in seven color options, so you can choose a set that will complement your interior.
Pros
- Seven color options to choose from
- Heel rest stations
- Ergonomic grooves
- Low price
Cons
- Stitching can start to come out after a few months of use
Conclusion
This set can instantly improve the look of your vehicle’s interior. They’re also a great choice for car owners on a tight budget. The unique design of the mats will improve traction, while also containing spills and preventing them from spreading. However, there have been some complaints that the stitching in some of the mats will begin to unravel after a few months of use. This can be a deal breaker for some buyers, although, considering the low price, it’s not much of a surprise that the mats are not quite as durable as standard rubber mats. Yet, these mats do a great job of improving rider comfort and minimizing stains as they protect the interior of your vehicle.
Car Floor Mats Buyer’s Guide
If you have kids and pets, then your vehicle has tracked in dirt, sand, debris, and whatever else you can imagine. The floors have also probably experienced their fair share of spilled drinks and dropped food. But it’s never too late to protect your car’s carpet. Floor mats can do just that, and can also make routine car maintenance much easier, since instead of shampooing the carpets, all you have to do is clean the floor mats. This buyer’s guide will go over all of the must-have features you need to protect your interior, ensuring you end up purchasing a set that’s tough and designed to last, while providing the level of protection your carpet needs.
If you’re not sure whether you need floor mats for your vehicle, I’ll go over the many benefits they offer and how they can help to prevent stains, spills, and general wear and tear.
Car Floor Mat Benefits
If you’ve recently purchased a new vehicle, then protecting your investment is important. Additionally, if you have small children or pets, you know that spills and accidents are bound to happen, which is why taking preventative measures to protect your vehicle’s interior is essential. Below, I’ll go over the many benefits you’ll enjoy when you purchase a new set of floor mats in your vehicle.
- Even a small spill can leave a mark on your interior. Spilled cups of coffee or soda can leave behind a permanent stain, which automatically decreases your vehicle’s resale value. While you can’t avoid every spill and stain, using floor mats can prevent them from having a major impact on the condition of your vehicle’s carpet.
- Dirt can be found everywhere. Your pet will track it into your vehicle on their paws, you’ll bring it inside your vehicle on your shoes and clothing, and so will any passengers in the vehicle. Heavy foot traffic can also bring more dirt and grime inside your vehicle on a daily basis. If your car is exposed to grime and dirt on a daily basis, then purchasing floor mats will make it easy to clean out your car’s interior at the end of the week, while protecting your vehicle’s carpet.
- Even if you stay on top of car maintenance, carpets that are left unprotected will be susceptible to wear and tear. You may even already have some heel marks on the driver’s side. This happens just by resting your heels against your carpet. This type of friction will wear away at your carpet, leaving it worn and faded. Using floor mats will protect your car’s carpet from general wear and tear, preventing serious damage that can be expensive to repair.
- Buying mats will also allow you to give the interior more of a custom look, allowing you to choose a color that complements the color of the carpet, or you can go for a more monochromatic look.
Difference Between Liners and Car Floor Mats
When you’re shopping around for a new set of mats for your vehicle, you’ll come across liners as well. However, there’s a big difference between both types, in terms of how much they cost and how they work. Floor mats consist of flat pieces of rubber or carpet, or a combination of the two. They’re more affordable than liners and provide better protection. Liners are designed to fit the contours and shape of the footwells, for a specific vehicle. The liner will have a wall or lip around the sides which will trap spills. But they don’t offer the same level of protection that floor mats can, although they’re about as durable.
Must-Have Features
Now, I’ll go over the most important features that can indicate quality and what you’ll need to look for in a new set of mats to ensure you purchase a set that’s designed to last.
Design
Most types of floor mats will feature a traditional design that’s intended to fit most makes and models of cars and SUVs. Their universal design is what makes it easy to find a set that will fit perfectly in your vehicle, but some can run a little small, which will make them a poor choice for larger vehicles, such as trucks and SUVs. Regardless of the style of mats you choose, make sure you measure the floor space in your vehicle to ensure the mats you intend to purchase will fit your vehicle’s footwells. Pay attention to each set’s width and length and compare their dimensions to the dimensions of your footwells to find a set that offers the perfect fit.
Some manufacturers will produce mats for specific makes and models. These custom mats can cost more than universal sets, but they’re often worth the higher price tag.
Carpet
Carpet floor mats are often a more affordable option compared to thick rubber mats. There are also several sets to choose from, so finding a set that matches the interior of your vehicle should be pretty easy. Mats made out of carpet often don’t last very long, at least compared to rubber mats. They can also show signs of wear and tear rather quickly and can be difficult to clean. However, if you’re on a tight budget, then carpet mats are a great choice. They’re also often available in a wide range of color options so you can match the mats to the color of your car’s carpet or go for a most custom look and choose a color that’s flattering to your interior.
Rubber
These mats are more expensive, but they feature a thick, durable design that makes them a total asset in any vehicle. however, they’re often much pricier than carpeted mats and don’t offer much in terms of style or color options. While their durability is the main reason many car owners choose this option, the fact that they’re very easy to clean and maintain is another big reason to go with a set made out of rubber.
Combination
These mats offer the best of both worlds and feature a rubber and carpet design that allows you to choose a custom look that will complement the interior of your vehicle, although they’re not as durable as standard rubber mats.
Nibs, Teeth, And Anchors
The nibs on the bottom of mats are what prevent them from sliding around. When you’re shopping for a new set, make sure you look for mats that come with large nibs, since they will provide a better grip. Some models will also use a car’s mounting point to keep the floor mats in place. Look for a set that comes with nibs or large teeth, both of which will prevent your mats from moving around when people get in and out of your vehicle. Mats that don’t stay securely in place can end up being totally useless.
In most cases the size and number of nibs or teeth, in addition to the stickiness and weight of the material can have a big impact on how much protection mats can offer. The best fit offered is often by sets that have holes that correspond with a vehicle’s factory floor mat mounting points. Anchors will be important, since without them, a mat can move around or fall out of your vehicle.
Ridges and Rims
You’ll also want to pay attention to the ridges and rims on certain mats. Sets with higher ridges can prevent spills from spreading to your carpet and seeping into the fibers. Additionally, some mats will feature grooves that are designed to channel liquid from the back of the pedals, away from your feet and into a type of catch basin. Mats with ridges and rims may be slightly pricier than mats without this extra feature, but considering how much easier they make it to clean up spills, this is definitely a must-have feature.
Thickness
Thicker mats can provide a higher level of protection and can also absorb more liquid. This type of thickness indicates quality. They’ll also feel more comfortable under your feet. However, if you’re shopping for rubber or plastic mats, then search for a set that features deep grooves that are designed to keep your carpet clean and free from spills and stains.
Color Options
If you’re interested in rubber mat sets for your vehicle, you’ll find that there really aren’t many options to choose from as far as color goes. In most cases, a manufacturer will offer a black or gray option. For carpet mats, you’ll have more of a selection, so you can choose a color that will complement your interior.
Warranty
Typically, only the higher priced sets will be covered by a warranty. These are usually the mats that are made out of a thick rubber and have a high rating for durability. Warranty length can range from 6-12 months on average but can vary from model to model or will depend on the manufacturer.
Price
Floor mats can be an affordable and effective way to protect your car’s interior, while also helping to hide old stains and breathe new life into worn carpet. Prices can range from $25 all the way up to $200, depending on the brand, how many mats come in a set, and the type of material they’re made out of. Carpet sets are often more affordable than rubber floor mats.
Rubber Mat Care
If you’ve purchased a set of mats made out of rubber, then the first step is shaking them out to remove any dirt. Doing so will break up some of the dirt and grime that’s stuck in the grooves. This technique will also work for carpeted mats.
Next, wet down the mats using a hose or pressure washer. Use a granule-based laundry detergent for both rubber and carpet styles and spread it onto the surface of the mats. Scrub them using a push broom. Make sure you brush the mats in several directions in order to agitate the dirt and grime. If you don’t have a push broom, then you can also use a stiff hand brush.
Rinse off the soap from one corner to the next, gradually pushing the soap across the surface. Repeat this process until the water runs clear.
Carpet Mat Care
Use baking soda and rub it onto the surface of the mats in order to neutralize odors and remove stains. You can also add some water, applying it with a spray bottle, then take a stiff scrub brush and work the baking soda into the surface.
If there are still stubborn stains left behind, then use some detergent. You can use a stiff brush and laundry detergent to scrub out tough stains. Rinse off the mats until the water runs clear, then hang them on a flat surface in the shade to prevent fading.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Rubber Car Mats Better Than Carpet?
In many cases, choosing rubber can be a more economical choice than carpet. Rubber provides more protection compared to mats made out of carpet. Rubber is also very durable and able to better withstand the elements of harsh climates. In some cases, it will be a matter of personal preference if you’re looking for a set that can give your vehicle a more custom look. Often, you’ll have more color and style options if you go with a set made out of carpet.
How do you Keep Car Mats Clean?
This will depend on the type of material the mats are made out of. For most types, all you’ll need is a scrub brush, a hose, and some detergent. You’ll remove the mats and spray them down with a hose. Then scrub them down with the help of the scrub brush and detergent. Basically, if you stay on top of the mess and rinse your mats off after a big storm, or once a month for routine maintenance, you should have no trouble keeping them looking new.
Why are my car Floor mats wet?
Your mats may be wet due to an issue with the air conditioning system leaking onto the floor on the passenger’s side. While the AC works to keep your vehicle cool, the system creates condensation. The condensation should normally drip down the evaporator hose and into the ground as you’re driving. If there’s an issue with the hose then it may begin to leak inside your vehicle.
Can we put Floor mats in the Washing Machine?
No. This can ruin your mats, causing them to wear out quickly. Avoid placing any type in the washing machine and instead wash them by hand. Always pay attention to the included manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.
Can you put car mats in the Dryer?
No. Mats should be left outside to air dry and should never be placed in the dryer. This will increase their wear and tear and can significantly shorten their lifespan.
Final Thoughts
Floor mats should be looked at as an important investment and one that can protect the interior in your vehicle. The best car floor mats will protect your car’s carpet from damage, wear and tear, dirt, grime, dust, and spills. It’s important to protect your car’s interior, since damage can negatively impact your vehicle’s resale value. The rubber and carpet floor mats that made it onto my top four list each scored well in a variety of areas, thanks to their durability, low maintenance needs, and overall quality. Refer to this guide when you’re shopping online searching for the perfect new set of mats for your vehicle. Remember to pay attention to the type, size, and design, to ensure you purchase a set that’s compatible with your vehicle and one that can provide the type of protection your vehicle’s carpet needs.
from Auto Clean Freak https://autocleanfreak.com/best-car-floor-mats/
via Auto Clean Freak
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