Correct Cleaning Methods for XPE Mats and EVA Puzzle Mats

2025-08-13

🎉🎉🎉In our previous article, we discussed how to choose between XPE cushions and EVA puzzle mats.Today, we will focus on how to clean these two mats properly. When babies play on Crawling Mats, stains from milk, solid foods, juice, and other substances are inevitable. Using scientifically appropriate cleaning methods not only keeps things sanitary but also extends the mats’lifespan. Because of the material properties, cleaning methods differ for XPE folding mats and EVA Interlocking Mats.

🧩XPE Folding Mat Cleaning Steps

1.Routine light cleaning🧺

Spray water or a dilute neutral cleaner (e.g., baby laundry detergent) onto the stain with a spray bottle. Let it sit for 1 minute, then wipe with a slightly damp soft cloth or sponge.
Due to the closed-cell structure of XPE, liquids do not penetrate, so common juice or milk stains can be wiped away directly without repeated rinsing.

2.Deep cleaning🧺

For mud or oil stains, first gently brush with a soft-bristle brush dipped in warm water, then wipe away the suds with a damp cloth.
After thorough cleaning, stand the mat upright to drain. Avoid direct sunlight (UV exposure can accelerate aging). Air-dry in the shade; folding and storing after drying does not affect performance.

3.Disinfection🌞

Once a week, wipe the surface with 75% alcohol swabs, or spray a diluted baby-approved disinfectant (e.g., hypochlorous acid solution at 500 mg/L). Let stand for 10 minutes, then wipe with clean water. This is suitable for families with sensitive or allergy-prone babies.

🧩Key Cleaning Points for EVA Puzzle Mats

1.Disassembly and wash🧺

Detach the interlocking mats one by one and rinse the surfaces under running water. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with baby wash to gently scrub the seams (avoid hard brushes that could damage the material). When washing individual tiles, do not rub with excessive force to prevent corner cracking

2.Stain treatment🧺

For dried-on solid-food stains, soak in warm water for 10 minutes to soften before cleaning. If colored juice has penetrated the seams, wipe with diluted white vinegar (acetic acid can break down pigments and leaves no residue). Avoid bleach, which can cause EVA discoloration.

3.Drying and reassembly💡

After cleaning, lay flat in a cool, ventilated area to dry; avoid direct sun exposure (high temperatures can make EVA brittle). Reassemble only after complete drying to prevent mold in a damp environment.

General Precautions⭐

Do not use organic solvents such as alcohol or gasoline to clean Eva Mats, as they can cause swelling and deformation. Although XPE mats have relatively strong chemical resistance, prolonged use of highly corrosive cleaners can damage the surface PE lamination.
Cleaning frequency: wipe away dust with a dry cloth daily; perform a deeper cleaning once a week; disinfect immediately after incidents such as baby diarrhea or vomiting.
Before storage, ensure the mats are completely dry. XPE folding mats can be rolled into a cylinder for storage; EVA mats should be disassembled and stacked to avoid heavy pressure (to prevent deformation of interlocking connectors).

A proper cleaning approach not only keeps the mats safe and sanitary but also maximizes their lifespan. Parents can perform regular maintenance according to the material characteristics to ensure a clean and safe space for their babies to play.

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Guangxi Hongle Plastic Products Co., Ltd.
☎️Phone: +86 13509077236
📧Email: lorraine_lao@honloy.com
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