IT’S TIME TO GIVE YOUR CUTTING MAT A BATH.

HOW DO YOU CLEAN YOUR CUTTING MAT?

Do you need to give your cutting mat a clean? Learn how right here!

Today’s post is a bit embarrassing. My cutting mat has been neglected for quite some time and needs a refresh. There are fibres stuck in grooves, it has something that I think are tea stains (oops), and it needs a BATH.

Shop Notions & Supplies
how to clean and wash your cutting mat
wash your cutting mat tips

1. Prep your cutting mat

First step is prep. I take an eraser and go along all the lines and grooves to get out any fibres. Mmm dusty! You can also use a lint roller, or packing tape if you don’t have an eraser on hand. 
cutting mat clean with eraser steps

2. Give it a wash with your cloth

Next, I use a soft damp cloth to give it a good wash, using a mild dish soap. I like this cloth because it prevents more fibres from attaching themselves to the mat.
cutting mat cleanup wash off with cloth

3. Fill up your bathtub and put in your mat!

Next stop is the tub. It’s a good idea to hydrate your cutting mat once in a while, in room temperature water with a bit of white vinegar. I use about a cup for the amount of water I add to my tub.  Never use warm, hot, or very cold water as this can cause warping and cracking to your mat. We are trying to prolong life here, not shorten it!

NEVER USE WARM, HOT OR VERY COLD WATER!

cutting mat wash in bath

My mat doesn’t fit flat in my tub so I just do 5 minutes and then turn it. Since we are using room temp water here this is fine for where I live. Use your best judgement if you are in a hotter or cooler environment. 

4. Gently dry your cutting mat with towels

Finally, take your mat out and gently dry with towels. Leave it to dry for about half an hour before use, keeping it away from direct, bright sunlight. 
cutting mat step dry off with towel
It’s all refreshed now and ready to go back into service!
 
I’ve learned in life that good tools (and shoes!) are worth the investment, but we have to invest a bit of time into their care as well. 

Happy cutting and stitching!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Michelle Brassens

Hi, I’m Michelle! I’ve never met a craft I didn’t like. Sewing however was where I really found my groove! So I left behind life as a pastry chef and concentrated on making things with fabric instead of food. I work at Dinkydoo Fabrics now and get to write about sewing and quilting for work. Stick with me and I’ll show you all kinds of tips and tricks, from beginner to expert maker level. Can’t wait!