Save Vehicle Carpets from Patter of Tiny Feet

There’s really no way around filth sneaking into your vehicle during winter. A sturdy set of floor mats protects the interior and reduces musty odors associated with caked mud or damp interior.

“A durable, custom-fitted floor mat puts nature firmly in its place,” said Tara Duncan, director of marketing for Husky Liners, a Kansas-based company designing and developing heavy-duty floor mats.

“Custom-molded liners that fit your vehicle’s floorboards keeps dust, dirt and debris out of your carpet,” Duncan said.

Mats add aesthetic appeal to a vehicle’s interior, but protecting the carpet should be the priority, Duncan said. Clean carpets keep the air in your car from becoming musty by reducing the amount of dust and allergens inside, she added.

Knowing what your needs and expectations are for a product simplifies the selection process, Duncan said.

Unsure where to start? Duncan said look for a product that provides a snug fit and a guarantee from its manufacturer.

“Consumers should look for a floor mat (or floor liner) that is custom to their specific vehicle make, model and year. They should also make sure that the liner will hold all manner or mess, stay in place on the floor and is backed by a lifetime guarantee,” Duncan said.

Unless custom-fitted for a specific make and model, floor mats and liners won’t protect your carpet completely. Contours or creases create uneven terrain, challenging mats and liners to provide coverage in irregular spaces.

Duncan offered the following suggestions to consider when shopping for floor mats:

• Look for a product that comes with a warranty. Such safeguards give consumers peace of mind.
• Insist on custom-fitted mats. A mat designed specifically for your make, model and year fits best and provides maximum protection.
• Check the cleats. Make sure the mat can grip the carpet so it won’t slide around during driving.
• Protect your investment. Durable mats still need a thorough rinsing and the interior should still be vacuumed. Wash the mats regularly and clean the interior as they dry.