- There are two different tactics for deep cleaning rubber flooring
- Pressure washing and steam cleaning are two preferred methods
- It’s important to deep clean your rubber mats to keep animals and humans healthy
Once you’ve made the switch to rubber flooring in your barns and gyms, there is no going back. Using rubber mats or rolled rubber in your recreational areas elevates the quality of everyday life for everyone involved.
Now, it’s time to learn the best way to clean rubber floor mats. Don’t worry, this is easier than installing and maintaining them. It’s simply a matter of understanding what rubber can withstand. Cleaning rubber flooring properly will help ensure a long lifespan for your mats.
Why You Clean Rubber Flooring
Before we get into the how, it’s important to understand why it’s important to clean your rubber flooring, whether it be mats or one-piece flooring systems.
One of the benefits of revulcanized rubber from TheRubberman.com is its resistance to curling, buckling, and tearing, as well as stress reduction on joints and moisture resistance. All of these things provide a healthier, safer environment for both humans and livestock.
However, built-up dirt and mud can negate the positive. Cleaning rubber flooring often can reduce allergens and bacteria that may build up on the mats.
Different Ways To Deep Clean Rubber Flooring
The best way to clean rubber floor mats is to alternate methods and be consistent with each one. There are four overall ways we recommend cleaning your flooring, and two methods for deep cleaning. Let’s review them all.
Daily Cleaning
The first step in deep cleaning is daily cleaning, to reduce build up.
- Sweeping: Sweep out your area at least once a day to remove loose dirt or trash. You can also use a leaf blower when applicable.
- Scrubbing: Use a small scrub brush for spot cleaning rubber flooring when needed.
Deep Cleaning
Set a consistent schedule to ensure the situation never gets out of hand.
- Pressure Washing: This should be done once every month or two. Clear out furniture and other items, then pressure-wash off built-up dirt and mud.
- Steam Cleaning: We recommend doing this at least a couple of times a year. The heat from the steam sanitizes the area and is the best way to clean rubber floor mats thoroughly.
Equipment
Knowing how to clean your rubber flooring means nothing without the right equipment. Whether you have the machines on hand or can rent them, deep cleaning rubber flooring is crucial.
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Pressure Washing: This can be done with a simple pressure-washing machine. It does not have to be a large one, just something that can hook up to a water source, such as a spigot, and handle your flooring area. This is best for outdoor flooring, like in a barn.
- If you have a gym, you can still pressure-wash the floors, but make sure you have a wet/dry vacuum on hand to immediately remove any standing water.
- Steam Cleaning: Since you will be cleaning a larger area, do not use a small hand-held steamer. Cleaning rubber flooring requires a commercial-size steamer. These can be rented at local and big-box hardware stores. The water evaporates quickly, but it’s suggested to have rags or a wet/dry vac on hand as well.
DIY Tips
Having equipment on hand and knowing when to clean your flooring is only part of the process. Use these DIY tips to discover the best way to clean rubber floor mats.
- Pressure Washing: Give yourself a day for this process. Start in the morning, when it’s still cool, and clear out the area of any furniture or machines before you begin cleaning rubber flooring in your barn or gym. If you’re outside, first check for any plant growth through cracks or around edges, and pull those ahead of time. Once you start pressure-washing, go slowly in a straight line. You’ll be able to see the dirt and grime disappear as you go, acting as a guideline for what has already been done. Work towards the door so it can act as a sluice for the runoff.
- Steam Cleaning: Sweep off all loose dirt before getting started, and clear out the entire space. If you are cleaning rubber flooring indoors, such as in a gym or playroom, you can use a soap specifically designed for use with steam cleaners. Check the instructions for where on the machine it should be added. Move slowly, giving the steam time to sanitize the flooring.
Conclusion
With these tips for the best way to clear rubber floor mats, the job becomes simple. Our team at TheRubberman.com is always on hand to assist with any other questions you might have, whether it be about cleaning, installing, or ordering your next batch of rubber flooring.
Contact us today to get started!