Martial arts mats are the foundation of any dojo, gym, or training facility. Proper maintenance and cleaning are essential for safety, hygiene, and longevity. From MMA and BJJ gyms to schools and community centres, this guide will show you exactly how to keep your mats in top condition and extend their lifespan.
Why Martial Arts Mat Maintenance Matters
Martial arts mats endure heavy use, sweat, and contact with multiple athletes every day. Neglecting maintenance can lead to:
Hygiene issues: Sweat, dirt, and bacteria can accumulate, increasing the risk of skin infections like ringworm or staph.
Reduced durability: Dirt, moisture, and improper cleaning can break down vinyl and foam, shortening the mat’s lifespan.
Safety hazards: Worn, slippery, or uneven mats increase the risk of slips, trips, and injuries during training.
Keeping mats clean and well-maintained ensures a safe, comfortable, and professional training environment. For full professional dojo installations, see our Dojo Installs service.
Daily Cleaning Routine
A simple daily routine can prevent dirt and bacteria from building up:
Wipe Down Surfaces: Use a microfiber mop or cloth with warm water and a mild, non-abrasive detergent. Avoid harsh cleaners that can damage the mat surface.
Disinfect: Apply a mat-safe disinfectant spray after wiping. Daily disinfecting helps prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses.
Dry Thoroughly: Use fans or allow mats to air dry completely before the next session. Damp mats can encourage mould, mildew, and unpleasant odours.
Check High-Traffic Areas: Inspect areas that see the most use, like entry points or sparring zones, for any debris or wear.
Weekly or Deep Cleaning
Once a week, take a deeper approach to ensure mats stay in excellent condition:
Separate Mats (If Possible): For interlocking jigsaw mats, lift and separate pieces to clean seams and edges thoroughly. Explore our full range of jigsaw mats.
Inspect for Damage: Look for tears, splits, or worn areas that could compromise safety. Address small issues immediately.
Clean Wall and Post Padding: Don’t forget padding along walls and posts, which can accumulate dust and sweat. Learn more about wall and post padding on our Dojo Installs page.
Rotate Mats: Move high-traffic mats to different areas to ensure even wear across the training surface.
Types of Mats and How to Care for Them
MMA Matting offers several types of mats for different martial arts disciplines. Each
requires specific cleaning and maintenance to ensure longevity and safety:
1. MMA Mats
Designed for mixed martial arts training, MMA mats are high-impact and durable, ideal for grappling, striking, and high-intensity sessions.
Care Tips:
Wipe daily with a microfiber cloth and mild detergent.
Disinfect regularly to prevent bacteria and odours.
Check for tears or worn areas, especially in high-traffic zones, and replace damaged sections promptly.
Avoid dragging heavy equipment across the mats to prevent surface damage.
See our MMA Mats collection for durable options.
2. Traditional Judo Mats
Perfect for judo, BJJ, and other throw-heavy disciplines, these mats provide a thicker, cushioned surface for safe throws.
Care Tips:
Clean after every session with warm water and a mat-safe disinfectant.
Pay extra attention to seams and edges, as these areas receive the most impact.
Rotate mats periodically to prevent uneven wear.
Inspect for compression or dents; replace mats that have lost cushioning.
Explore our Traditional Judo Mats.
3. Roll-Out Mats
Smooth roll-out mats are versatile and ideal for general martial arts or fitness training.
Care Tips:
Wipe with mild detergent and disinfectant after each session.
Roll mats fully when storing to prevent curling or permanent creases.
Check for surface scratches or cuts and repair or replace if needed.
Browse our Roll-Out Mats.
4. Interlocking Jigsaw Mats
Modular and easy to install, jigsaw mats are perfect for flexible training areas or temporary setups.
Care Tips:
Separate pieces periodically to clean seams and edges thoroughly.
Inspect interlocks to ensure pieces stay tightly connected.
Rotate mats to evenly distribute wear.
Avoid excessive moisture between interlocks to prevent mould growth.
General Maintenance Tips
To maintain mat quality over time, follow these tips:
No Shoes on Mats: Only allow bare feet or clean, indoor-only training shoes to prevent dirt and debris from damaging the surface.
Use Protective Covers: Vinyl mat covers protect foam from wear and make cleaning easier. Browse our range of vinyl mat covers.
Control Humidity and Ventilation: Ensure the training space is well- ventilated to reduce moisture buildup.
Immediate Spill Response: Clean up water, drinks, or other spills immediately to prevent staining or slipping.
Inspect Seams and Interlocks: For jigsaw mats, regularly check that pieces remain tightly connected to avoid gaps or uneven surfaces.
Long-Term Care
Proper long-term maintenance can dramatically extend your mats’ lifespan:
Replace Damaged Sections: Torn or excessively worn mats should be replaced promptly to maintain safety standards.
Professional Servicing: Consider a yearly inspection by a mat supplier or installer, especially if you have a custom dojo layout. Learn more about our Dojo Installs.
Mat Rotation: Rotating mats periodically prevents overuse in certain areas and keeps the surface even.
Cleaning Products and Tools
Using the right tools makes maintenance easier:
Microfiber Mop or Cloth: Gentle on vinyl and easy to clean.
Mild Detergent or Mat Cleaner: Avoid harsh chemicals that could degrade foam or vinyl.
Mat-Safe Disinfectant: Essential for killing bacteria and viruses.
Fans or Air Drying: Helps prevent moisture build-up that can cause mould or odours.
Tips for Schools and Community Gyms
For school gyms or community centres, maintaining mats is even more critical due to
multiple users:
Daily Supervision: Teachers or coaches should wipe mats after each session.
Student Awareness: Encourage students to wash hands and feet before training.
Dedicated Storage Area: Mats not in use should be stored properly, keeping them clean and dry.
Regular Checks: Schedule weekly inspections to identify damage or areas that need extra cleaning.
Why Choose MMA Matting
MMA Matting provides high-quality mats, vinyl covers, and dojo installations designed for durability and safety. Our products are easy to maintain, and we provide guidance on proper cleaning and care. Investing in quality mats and following a structured maintenance routine ensures your facility remains safe, hygienic, and professional.
Conclusion
Maintaining and cleaning martial arts mats is simple but essential. By following daily, weekly, and long-term routines, using the right cleaning products, and inspecting mats regularly, you can extend the lifespan of your mats, protect athletes, and keep your dojo or gym in top condition.
Start today: Keep your mats clean, safe, and ready for action with MMA Matting’s high-quality matting solutions.