Things To Consider When Buying Car Mats

So you’ve recently purchased a new vehicle and you’re in the market for something that protects the interior of your car from dirt and unwanted debris. With so many brands and products out there, it can be challenging to figure out what you actually need. That is why we’ve decided to share this guide with you to help make things easier.

Protection: Universal-Fit

vs Custom-Fit

Let’s begin with the types of Car Mat protection that are available. Categorically, there are just two types, which are universal and custom-fit mats; custom-fit mats can also be differentiated by semi coverage and max coverage mats. 

Universal mats

• Basic all weather mats that protect the floor of your vehicle, often found at big box retailers
• Most affordable option
• One size fits all with limited protection

Custom-fit car mats

Average Coverage mats

• Car mats that are specific to your vehicle and follows the contours of your footwell, often found at dealerships and/or third party vendors
• More expensive than universal mats
• Better coverage and protection over universal mats, but interior carpet is still partially exposed

Max Coverage mats

• Car mats made to cover the entire floor cabin
• Comparable pricing to semi-coverage custom-fit floor mats
• Extended vertical walls covering max amount of carpeted area, offering a complete protection package

Care: Cleaning & Maintenance

When you’re choosing car mats for your vehicle, you want a product that requires minimal cleaning effort, so you can spend more time enjoying your car. Here are some factors to keep in mind.

Carpeted Mats

• Rather than repelling mud and water, carpet tends to absorb it, so it can easily stain and produce an unpleasant smell, if untreated
• This will require getting your carpets cleaned regularly, not fun to say the least if you’re a DIYer, otherwise it can be taken care of by professionals for a cost.

Mats with Deep Crevices

• Universal rubber mats are typically designed with deep crevices to prevent liquids from flowing, but puddles can form and look unpleasant when they dry up
• This is an easier job as a DIYer, but bringing your mats back to its original state will be extremely time consuming when cleaning out the crevices

Mats with Shallow Crevices

• Designed for cleaning in mind, these mats are easy to clean as debris can be shaken off or wiped clean
• Restoring to its original state requires the least amount of effort. All you need is a cloth and some water, and then air dry 

Which Option Is Best?

As mentioned, it all comes down to your individual needs and preferences. Universal mats may be sufficient for some people, but if you’re looking for the best protection, and also something that is easy to maintain, then custom-fit car mats will be the better option.

If you have any specific questions, feel free to reach out to our team by visiting our website. If you haven't already, remember to subscribe to get regular updates, tips, and learn about our upcoming events!