Whether you own a business or are simply an appreciator of eco-friendly interiors, the chances are you might be familiar with the trend of using natural fibres, specifically coconut matting. Its unique blend of aesthetics, functionality, and durability has made it an increasingly popular type of entrance mat for both home and commercial settings, but like any type of matting, coconut mats require specific maintenance to keep them looking fresh and new. This guide will provide a step-by-step process on how to clean and maintain your coconut mat, extending its lifespan and keeping your space looking sharp.
Understanding Coconut Matting
Before diving into the cleaning methods, it's important to understand what makes coconut matting, also known as coir, unique. Made from the fibres of a coconut husk, these mats are not just aesthetically pleasing, but also naturally tough and abrasive. The fibres have excellent scraping qualities, which effectively scrape the soles of shoes, accumulating dirt within the surface of the mat. Its absorbency, anti-bacterial, and hardwearing properties have made it a favoured matting solution amongst many of our customers. However, their natural fibrous composition also means they require special care when cleaning – here are some step-by-step instructions.
Step 1: Regular Dusting and Shaking
Coconut mats should be regularly dusted and shaken to dislodge any dirt or dust trapped in the fibres. For loose-laid mats, you can take your mat outside and shake it vigorously to remove any debris. If you're dealing with a large commercial mat, it may require two people for this step.
If your coconut mat is fitted within a mat well or recess, you can also use a vacuum cleaner on a low-suction setting to remove dirt particles. We recommend using a brush attachment if possible, to prevent damage to the natural fibres. When vacuuming, be sure to clean the surrounding area too, to remove any fibres that might have shed and to keep your entrance looking pristine.
Step 2: Spot Cleaning
All kinds of matting solutions can suffer from occasional spills or stains, including coconut matting. To clean these, it is important to let them dry first. Once they have dried completely, you can use a brush to agitate and remove the stain. If the stain does not lift, we suggest using a cloth dampened with soapy water to gently blot the stain, being careful not to rub it in further - it will likely be an oil-based stain. After cleaning, rinse the soap off by blotting the area with warm water and a dry towel. You might have to repeat this if the stain is stubborn.
Step 3: Deep Cleaning
For a deep clean, coconut mats can be scrubbed lightly with a brush and a mixture of warm water and mild detergent. Once scrubbed, the mat should be thoroughly rinsed with water to remove all soap residue. Remember to never fully immerse your coconut mat in water as it can weaken the natural fibres and cause the mat to fall apart.
Step 4: Drying
After any form of wet cleaning, it's crucial to properly dry the coir out. Start by blotting excess water with a clean towel, then allow the mat to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area but avoid direct sunlight as it can cause the mat to fade.
Step 5: Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to extending the life of your coconut mat. This includes rotating the mat periodically to even out wear and tear and keeping it dry as much as possible to prevent mildew growth. If your mat is located outdoors, consider moving it indoors during inclement weather to protect it.
Some Don’ts to Keep in Mind
When it comes to cleaning coconut matting, remember never to bleach, tumble dry, or iron your mat. These can severely damage the natural fibres and reduce the lifespan of your mat. Also, never machine wash or dry clean your coconut mat, unless the manufacturer’s instructions say so. These cleaning methods are generally too harsh for the fibres and may cause them to unravel or disintegrate.
Here at Commercial Matting, all of our coconut mats are backed with durable PVC for non-slip resistance, however, due to this, it is important to avoid using solvent-based products for cleaning. Solvents can lead to expansion of the PVC, resulting in damage and potential loss of pile.
With this step-by-step guide, you can now confidently maintain the cleanliness and durability of your coconut matting. While coconut mats require a bit of extra care, their myriad benefits, from enhancing aesthetics to increasing cleanliness, make the extra effort worthwhile! If you require additional information about maintenance tips or want more help with our product line, please contact us 01772 330051 or email [email protected] and we will be happy to help.