How to Clean Stall Mats for a Fresh, Safe Stall

Clean stall mats are essential for healthier hoof care and easier barn maintenance. This guide explains practical, step-by-step methods using common tools to remove grime, oils, and mildew from rubber stall mats.

Whether you manage a single horse or a larger barn, following a consistent cleaning routine helps prevent slipping hazards and keeps stalls smelling fresh. The techniques below focus on safe, effective methods with readily available products.

Quick Answer

Fast Method: Sweep debris, spray with a rubber stall mat cleaner or horse stall degreaser, scrub with a stall mat scrub brush, rinse with a pressure washer, and dry before returning horses. For stubborn mildew, apply mildew remover and scrub again, then rinse and dry thoroughly.

What You’ll Need

The following tools and products are commonly used to clean rubber stall mats. Gather these before you start to streamline the process.

Rubber stall mat cleaner
Stall mat scrub brush
Horse stall degreaser for rubber mats
Pressure washer for horse stalls
Mildew remover for rubber stall mats

	Swinging arm Horse Wash Attachment – Wall-mounted Spray Boom Preventing Tangling and Trampling While Washing Your Horse. Hose Not Included, Fits Standard Garden Hose
	VIKING Carpet Cleaning and Scrub Brush for Floor Mats, Cleaning Brush for Car Interior and Home, Grey, 6.4 x 2.8 x 1.8 Inch
	Zogics Rubber Flooring Cleaner and Degreaser – Cleaner Concentrate and Heavy Duty Degreaser for Rubber Floors and Mats, Biodegradable and Non Toxic Cleaner (4 Gallons/Case)

Before You Start

Prepare the area by removing horses and any loose bedding. Protect nearby surfaces that could be damaged by cleaners. Ventilate the barn well to avoid fumes, and wear gloves and eye protection. Test any cleaner on a small mat area first to confirm colorfastness and material compatibility. Plan for a thorough cleaning to minimize moisture time and disruption to stall routines.

Step-By-Step: How To Clean Stall Mats

Remove all loose debris from the stall floor using a stiff-bristle broom or brush.
Clear bedding and move mats if possible to access the full surface.
Apply the rubber stall mat cleaner or horse stall degreaser evenly over the mat surface.
Scrub with the stall mat scrub brush, paying close attention to edges and any grooves where grime collects.
Rinse the mat with a pressure washer set to a moderate spray, keeping the nozzle at a safe distance to avoid damage.
Inspect for remaining oil or residue; repeat cleaning on stubborn spots if needed.
If mildew is present, apply mildew remover for rubber stall mats according to label directions and scrub again.
Rinse thoroughly to remove all cleaner residues. Ensure mats are free of slippery soap films.
Allow mats to dry completely in a well-ventilated space before reinstalling bedding or returning horses.
Reposition mats and restore bedding, ensuring seams and edges lay flat to prevent tripping risks.
Establish a regular cleaning schedule to maintain hygiene and reduce buildup over time.
Record any maintenance notes, including cleaner types used and drying times, for future reference.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Likely Cause	Fix	Prevention
Stubborn oily residue	Deep-set oil or grease	Apply degreaser, let sit, then scrub and rinse thoroughly	Schedule periodic degreasing during stalls’ routine cleaning
Mildew or mold growth	Moist conditions and poor airflow	Use mildew remover for rubber stall mats and ensure thorough drying	Improve ventilation and dry mats promptly after cleaning
Mat color fading after cleaning	Harsh cleaners or UV exposure	Switch to milder cleaners and limit sun exposure during drying	Use cleaners tested for rubber compatibility
Slick surface persists	Soap residue or over-application	Rinse more thoroughly; use less cleaner next time	Rinse until water sheets off without suds

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Using high-alkaline cleaners that can degrade rubber mats.
Skipping to rinse thoroughly, leaving slippery soap films.
Allowing moisture to linger under mats; this can promote odor and mildew.
Neglecting edges and grooves where grime hides.

Tips For Best Results

Test a small area first to confirm colorfastness and material compatibility.
Work from the center outward to avoid bringing debris toward clean areas.
Use a stiff-bristle brush for grooves and seams to remove embedded dirt.
Schedule cleaning after a light turnout to prevent sudden moisture exposure indoors.
Keep a dedicated bucket of rinse water; rinse mats promptly to minimize downtime.

Call A Professional

Consider contacting a professional cleaner if mats are severely stained, discolored, or damaged, or if there is persistent mildew that does not respond to standard treatments. Stop and seek expert advice when:

The mat surfaces are cracking or tearing.
There is a strong mold odor that persists after cleaning and drying.
Cleaning attempts cause slipping hazards or surface erosion.

FAQ

Can I use household cleaners on rubber stall mats?

Household cleaners may contain harsh chemicals not suitable for rubber mats and can cause damage. Always follow product labels and use cleaners designed for rubber surfaces.

How often should stall mats be cleaned?

Clean mats on a regular schedule, with a deeper clean monthly or as needed based on use and odor. More frequent cleaning is recommended in high-traffic stalls.

Is it safe to use a pressure washer?

Yes, a pressure washer is effective when used with caution. Use a moderate setting and keep the nozzle at a safe distance to avoid mat damage.

What signs indicate a mat needs replacement?

Cracking, significant deformity, persistent odors after cleaning, or loss of traction despite cleaning indicate mats may need replacement.

Should I remove mats to clean underneath?

Yes, removing mats when possible allows full cleaning and drying underneath, reducing odor and mildew risk.

Do I need to seal rubber mats after cleaning?

Sealing is generally not required; routine cleaning and drying are sufficient. Check manufacturer recommendations for your specific mats.

Buying Guide

When selecting stall mats for a barn, consider key factors to balance comfort, durability, and maintenance. This guide highlights size, noise, energy efficiency of cleaning equipment, control options, and placement considerations to help choose the best setup.

<bSize and thickness: Thicker mats provide cushioning and stability for heavy use; ensure compatibility with stall dimensions.
<bMaterial and texture: Look for solid rubber with a textured surface to reduce slipping and ease cleaning.
<bCleaning compatibility: Choose mats that respond well to common cleaners and are resistant to oils and mildew.
<bNoise and comfort: Mat thickness and texture influence sound reduction and hoof comfort.
<bMaintenance ease: Prefer mats that are easy to maneuver, scrub, and rinse without degradation.
<bPlacement and drainage: Plan for edge alignment, doorway access, and any sloped or graded areas to help water drain away.
<bReplacement and warranty: Consider durability, warranty terms, and the expected lifespan under your barn’s conditions.
<bEquipment compatibility: Ensure compatible cleaning tools such as stall mat scrub brushes and pressure washers.