How to Clean Wrestling Mats? [Step by Step – EXPLAINED]

Keeping your wrestling mats clean and safe is an important routine in taking care of your wrestling space. You want to eliminate any odors, particles, and germs that might find their way onto the mat when being used.

Top Reasons for Cleaning Wresting Mats

Wrestling is a body contact game and protection from infections is a top priority for your health. Additionally, cleaning the mat gives you a comfortable and neat place for your favorite recreation activity.  

As the probability of bacterial and fungal infections is highly probable in wrestlers (which were found to be 60% bacterial and 28% fungal), it is worthwhile to include cleaning agents that decisively deal with these two threats.

An effective disinfectant is a key necessity in protecting the wrestlers from any risks of skin infections.

Below, we will discuss step-by-step the best way to clean wrestling mats.

Required Items

All tools and materials required to clean Wrestling mats.

• vacuum cleaner
• Water
• Soap
• An effective disinfecting solution readily available at your local store
• A broom
• Rag or mop that is not too abrasive for the mat’s surface
• Cleaning liquid sprayer for a large gym mat or a bottle sprayer for a small surface

Cleaning Wrestling Mats [Step by Step]

1. Sweeping out the loose dirt on the surface

Begin by sweeping clean the dirt on the surface to remove any loose dirt, hairs, or particles.

After sweeping the loose dirt, pass a dry mop to be sure nothing has been left behind.

Watch out for hidden surfaces or corners that may retain hidden dirt as you sweep.

2. Laying the mat on a clean surface and flattening any folds

Lay the mat on a flat surface leaving no folds that may conceal part of the mat. This allows for uniform application of the cleaning mixture on the entire mat.

3. Mixing the cleaning agents

Put soap or cleaning solution in a bucket of water and stir with a mop for it to completely dissolve.

Ensure you don’t apply too much soap to avoid patches forming after cleaning. Warm water is recommended as it mixes and cleans faster.

Coldwater on the other hand is readily available and does the job as well, you have a choice on that.

4. Wash

Apply the mixture on the mat’s surface and evenly spread it with a mop as you gently rub the surface. Add the mixture where it is inadequate to reach the entire mat. Once done you are done with the cleaning, the mat is ready for disinfecting and drying.

5. Disinfect the mat

Washing with soap and water makes the wrestling mats clean and neat. However, this is not enough. You now need to make it safe from infections by applying a disinfectant.

Mix it in the recommended ratio for use and then apply it to the entire surface of the mat. Once you apply it, leave it to settle for about 30 seconds.

During this time, the disinfectant will kill any germs that may be on the mat. This ensures you’re your mat is free from bacterial and fungi. You apply the disinfectant using a backpack or hand sprayer depending on the size of the mat and the sprayer at your disposal.

After waiting for 30 seconds you need to wipe out the disinfectant with a dry mop or dry cloth.

6. Cleaning the backside of the mat

Turn the mat upside down to clean the lower side. Repeat the steps above to wash and disinfect the other side of the mat.

7. Dry

Store the mat upright while rolled to ensure that it is dry and ready for the next wrestling session.

Final Wrap

Cleaning your wrestling mat regularly keeps it comfortable and safe for use. With the right tools in place, it is a quick and easy exercise to carry out.

Depending on the frequency of use, you want to clean it at least daily for the upper surface and on weekly basis for the lower surface.