Rubber stall mats are durable and comfortable for horses, but keeping them clean requires the right approach. This guide walks American horse owners through effective, safe methods to remove dirt, grease, and mildew from rubber stall mats, preserving their condition and reducing odor.
Quick Answer
Begin with a rinse to loosen debris, apply a rubber stall mat cleaner or horse stall degreaser for rubber mats, scrub with a stall mat scrub brush, rinse thoroughly, and treat any mildew with a mildew remover for rubber stall mats. For stubborn grime, a pressure washer can be used on a low setting, then allow mats to dry completely in a well-ventilated area.
What You’ll Need
- rubber stall mat cleaner or horse stall degreaser for rubber mats
- stall mat scrub brush
- Water source and a tub or bucket
- pressure washer for horse stalls (low-pressure setting recommended)
- mildew remover for rubber stall mats for affected areas
- Protective gloves and eye protection
- Drainage space or outdoor area for drying
Before You Start
Prep the stall to create a safe work area: move horses away, remove manure, and sweep floors to reduce debris. Check mat edges for damage before cleaning; damaged mats should be replaced to prevent injuries. Wear gloves, and avoid mixing cleaners unless specified by the product label. Never use bleach or high-alkaline cleaners on rubber mats, as they can degrade rubber over time. Allow mats to dry completely before returning horses to stalls to prevent slippery surfaces.
Step-By-Step: How To Clean Stall Mats
- Remove loose debris by sweeping or sucking with a shop vacuum.
- Rinse mats with plain water to loosen dried matter and reduce residue.
- Apply rubber stall mat cleaner or horse stall degreaser for rubber mats generously to the surface.
- Scrub with the stall mat scrub brush, paying attention to seams and corners where grime collects.
- Rinse thoroughly with a hose or pressure washer for horse stalls on a low-pressure setting to prevent mat damage.
- For persistent grease or mildew, apply mildew remover for rubber stall mats to affected areas and scrub again.
- Allow mats to air-dry completely in a well-ventilated area before returning horses to the stall.
- Inspect for odor or residue; repeat cleaning if necessary, especially in high-traffic stalls.
- Store any leftover cleaners according to label directions, away from children and animals.
- Reinstall mats, ensuring even surface contact and proper alignment for safety.
- Schedule regular cleaning intervals to prevent heavy buildup and extend mat life.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Fix | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mild odor after cleaning | Residual organic matter | Re-clean with rubber stall mat cleaner and ensure complete rinse | Clean regularly; remove manure promptly |
| Stubborn grease spots | Heavy buildup | Apply degreaser, let sit, then scrub with brush; rinse thoroughly | Address spills promptly |
| Visible mildew patches | Humidity and moisture | Use mildew remover for rubber stall mats; improve drainage | Improve ventilation, dry mats fully |
| Mat surface sticky after cleaning | Leftover soap residue | Rinse with clean water until residue is gone | Use minimal cleaner and thorough rinse |
| Discoloration at seams | Mat wear | Replace affected mats | Rotate mats and monitor wear |
Common Mistakes
- Using harsh cleaners not labeled for rubber mats
- Over-saturating mats with water, especially indoors
- Neglecting corners and seams where grime hides
- Skipping drying time, which invites slip hazards
Regular, moderate cleaning minimizes material stress and helps maintain traction for horses.
Tips For Best Results
- Test any cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure no discoloration or deterioration.
- Work from the center of the mat toward the edges to prevent pushing dirt into cracks.
- Use a stiff but safe brush to avoid scratching the rubber surface.
- Schedule cleaning after manure removal and before feeding to keep stalls hygienic.
- For large stalls, consider using a pressure washer on a gentle setting to save time while protecting mats.
Call A Professional
Consider contacting a stall maintenance professional if mats show deep cracks, persistent mildew despite cleaning, or if the stall layout complicates access. Seek expert help when dealing with extensive mold growth, compromised mat integrity, or if specialized equipment is required for safe cleaning.
FAQ
What cleaner should I use on rubber stall mats?
Choose a product labeled as a rubber stall mat cleaner or a horse stall degreaser for rubber mats, following the label directions for dilution and contact time.
Can I use a pressure washer on rubber mats?
Yes, but use a low-pressure setting and keep the nozzle at a safe distance to avoid mat damage or lifting edges.
How often should stall mats be cleaned?
High-traffic stalls may require weekly cleaning, while less-used stalls can be cleaned every 1–2 weeks, with spot cleaning as needed.
Is mildew dangerous to horses?
Mildew can cause respiratory irritation in horses; promptly treat mildew and ensure good stall ventilation and drying after cleaning.
What should I do about stubborn grease?
Apply a dedicated degreaser for rubber mats, allow dwell time, scrub, and rinse thoroughly to remove grease buildup.
Do I need to replace mats over time?
Yes, inspect for wear, cracking, or persistent odor; replace mats that show significant wear to maintain safety and hygiene.
Is bleach safe for rubber stall mats?
No. Bleach can degrade rubber; use cleaners specifically labeled for rubber mats and follow safety instructions.
Buying Guide
When choosing products for cleaning stall mats, consider factors such as the mat material, cleaning effectiveness, and ease of use. For rubber stall mats, select cleaners and degreasers formulated for rubber to avoid deterioration. A stall mat scrub brush with a stiff yet non-abrasive tip helps remove embedded dirt without scratching. If recurring mildew is a concern, keep a dedicated mildew remover for rubber stall mats on hand and ensure good airflow in the stall. A pressure washer for horse stalls is convenient for large areas but should be used cautiously to protect mat edges.
Size and layout of stalls influence method: larger stalls may benefit from a portable cleaner or a pressure washer, while smaller stalls can be cleaned with a bucket, brush, and hose. Noise level and energy efficiency matter for indoor use; choose tools that minimize disruption to horses and conserve water. Consider storage space for cleaning supplies and a routine schedule that fits barn operations.