How to Clean Cutting Mat

To make your cutting mat last longer, like those for Silhouette or Cricut machines, you should clean it. Cleaning helps keep the mat sticky, which is needed for smooth crafting. This article will give you detailed steps on cleaning your cutting mats to improve accuracy and cleanliness. Keep reading to find out more. Enjoy!

Cleaning your cutting mat can seem not a necessary thing to do but it’s an important part of taking care of your cutting machine. There are a number of things one must have to make the cleaning process smooth and effective.

To get you started, there are several materials and supplies you’ll need for your cleaning project. Most of these materials can be found in your house because they’re the common household items you purchase regularly. They include:

Now that you’ve gathered all the necessary materials for your cleaning process, let's learn how to use them in each step of the cleaning project. Follow these simple steps:c

Begin by addressing the loose debris on your cutting machine's mat that doesn't require water or any solution to clean. Use your fingers, a plastic scraper, or a credit card to gently remove any large debris or particles, such as leftover pieces of vinyl, paper, or fabric.

After removing the larger particles, it's time to tackle the finer ones. Use a lint roller to pick up fine particles, dust, glitter, or small scraps. For the edges of the cutting mat, use painter’s tape to collect fine particles, as it can be challenging to do this with a scraper or lint roller.

After removing the dry debris and fine particles, use a solution to clean your cutting mat thoroughly without affecting its adhesive qualities.

Fill a basin or sink with warm water and add a small amount of mild soap. Avoid harsh detergents, as they can damage the adhesive properties of your cutting mat, leading to inaccurate results in your projects.

If you don't have mild detergents, you can alternatively mix equal parts of water and white vinegar . Submerge the cutting mat in the mixture for 10 to 20 minutes to allow the detergent or vinegar to break down any remaining residues that couldn't be removed by scraping.

After soaking, use a sponge or a soft-bristle brush to scrub in a consistent pattern, such as circular motions, focusing on the dirty areas. Avoid applying too much pressure while scrubbing to prevent damaging the adhesive. Rub gently with consistent strokes and let the detergent handle the rest of the dirt removal.

Concentrate on eliminating dirt, grease, and debris. For tougher spots, instead of scrubbing hard, try using alcohol-free wipes to gently clean the area.

If residues persist, consider using a small amount of a clear eraser like Seam Fix, but ensure you wash it off thoroughly after use. Test the eraser on a corner first to confirm its compatibility with the cutting mat and avoid any damage.

Rub the eraser over stubborn stains in a circular motion, applying light pressure to prevent surface damage.

Use a soft brush or clean cloth to sweep away any eraser crumbs left behind.

After gently removing all the dirt from your cutting mat, rinse it thoroughly with lukewarm water to eliminate any soap residue. Allow it to air dry completely with the sticky side facing up to avoid moisture damage and maintain its adhesive properties." Avoid using a soft cloth or towel to dry the mat, as this can leave lint behind, interfering with your projects. Additionally, do not dry it in direct sunlight, as this may cause warping.

With each wash, the mat may lose some of its tackiness. Therefore, it is important to restore its stickiness, especially if you frequently work on cutting projects. You can use repositionable adhesive sprays such as M3 Spray Mount, Tack-It Over & Over, or Krylon Easy-Tack to restore the stickiness. 

Simply spray a very light layer on the mat's surface and let it dry before using it for your next cutting project. Alternatively, you can apply a very light coating of tacky glue mixed with water in a 1:1 ratio.

A cutting mat is a very important tool for crafters that is used to withstand cuts and provide a protective surface needed in almost all crafting projects. However, improper use of the cutting mat can always lead to damage or shortened lifespan. Here are some of the unintended uses of cutting mats that you should avoid to guarantee longevity and effectiveness.

1. Using Harsh Chemicals & Excessing Force when Cleaning

Using harsh chemicals like bleach or strong solvents when cleaning your cutting mat can damage the mat's adhesive layer. Consider using locally available solvents such as vinegar in your kitchen or mild detergents. Also, be gentle when cleaning and avoid scrubbing vigorously, as this can scratch the mat's surface.

2. Cutting with Excessive Force

Another thing that can interfere with the longevity of your cutting mat is the force you use during cutting. Pressing with excessive force when cutting can cause the craft knife to slice through the mat. This will compromise its high-healing ability over time and you’ll soon render it unusable. So use gentle pressure when cutting and make sure you’re using the right cutting tools. Avoid using serrated blades when cutting because they can gouge or tear the mat.

3. Using Your Cutting Mat as a Heat Surface

Cutting mats are not designed to withstand heat and therefore they should not be used as a heat surface in your projects. Heat causes the mat to warp thereby losing its flatness. Put your cutting mat away from hot items such as iron boxes, heat press machines, or even glue guns. Use a dedicated heat-resistant sheet such as a Teflon sheet or parchment paper as your heat surface.

4. Improper Storage

How you store your cutting mat matters a lot. Do not leave your cutting mat exposed to direct sunlight or in a hot car can cause it to be brittle and even make the cleaning process even harder. I normally store my cutting mats in a cool, flat, and shaded area. This will prevent any damage to the cutting mat. Also, avoid rolling or bending the cutting mat when storing.

5. Using the Mat as a Multi-Purpose Surface

As much as it's tempting to use the cutting mat for different purposes such as writing, painting, or as a hammering surface, these activities will damage the mat. You’re bound to lose the grid lines or create unwanted stains that will be difficult to clean.

By avoiding these unintended uses of your cutting mat, you can prolong the lifespan and you’re sure to keep it in excellent condition even as you go about your project activities.

Now that you’ve learned how to clean your cutting mat, here are some tips and precautions to help maintain it. This ensures accuracy, durability, and reliability in your cutting projects.

Here are some common questions from the crafting community about maintaining cutting mats. You'll learn tips to keep your cutting machine clean for precise cuts. Let's take a look: