Are you worried about your Cricut cutting mats losing their adhesive properties? The only solution is prevention, which can only be achieved through cleaning. If your machine mats start losing their sticky nature, throwing them away should not be your first instinct.
Also, did you know that proper cleaning can increase the life of your mats fourfold? You may wonder how to regain the stickiness; fear not! With this how to clean Cricut mat guide, you will be a pro at keeping your mats in top-notch condition!
So, without further ado, let’s start the cleaning process and make your crafting journey enjoyable. Who does not like a well-cleaned mat?
Why Do You Need to Clean Your Cricut Mat?
Uncleaned mats can lead to blunt cuts or a feathered edge during cutting. Proper mat cleaning can solve these problems and save a lot of your time. Dust, pet hair, or remnants of paper or cardstock can hinder the mat’s adhesive nature and cause the transfer material to move during the cutting process, which may lead to an even or fumbled cut.
How to Clean Cricut Mat: 4 Different Methods
There is no better cure than prevention, as stated in the introduction of the video. That is why it is essential to discuss the clear covers that come with your mat. Many people actually throw these away, unaware of their beneficial use. One should keep them while they aren’t using their mat, placing them over the mat on top to prevent particles such as dust and pet hair from building up on the mat.
Another important thing to consider is removing cut material as soon as you finish cutting your project. After a while, it is even harder to remove debris or unwanted particles from paper and cardstock. Therefore, it is advisable that you remove them as soon as you are done with your project.
Below are the four methods for cleaning your machine mats. Be sure to read thoroughly to learn the tips for increasing the lifespan of your mat!
Method 1: With the Help of Scraper Tool
The first step in cleaning your mat properly is to remove the surface dirt on your mat. Any flat-edge tool, such as a scraper, can do this. Remember not to use so much force that you remove the adhesiveness of the mat. The ideal way to do this is to go from one direction to another, pressing the tool on the mat. This will, in turn, remove a lot of dirt and dust, which can contribute to increasing the stickiness of your mat.
Method 2: Using a Sticky Lint Roller
If removing the dirt with a scraper tool does not work for your mat, you are not satisfied. Another way is to use a lint roller. It has a cylindrical periphery; you can use this handy tool by running it over to your mat to pick up dirt, dust, and glitter. One must not use the roller in the opposing direction of the grain of the paper; otherwise, there is a chance that the adhesive will be pulled off. If you are using a new sheet on your roller, rub it on clothes first to decrease the effect of the tackiness of the roller.
Method 3: Through Wet or Baby Wipes
Even after the above two tips, if one is still not satisfied with the stickiness of their mat, they can use a wet wipe. Now, there are many types of wipes available, and it may be confusing which one to use. Fear not; just avoid one with an alcohol ingredient, as the alcohol is injurious to the adhesive in your mat. Any water-only wet wipe is sufficient for properly cleaning your machine mat.
Just rub the wet wipe on the mat’s surface until it picks up excess dirt, and let it dry. Remember that your mat won’t feel sticky as long as it is wet. Stickiness will only return when it is completely dry, so don’t worry if you don’t find your mat sticky for a while. Also, you must avoid using any fabric to push through the drying process; just let it dry naturally, and your mat will be fine as new.
Method 4: With Dish Detergent Water
Now, one can use this last option. If the mat is extremely dry or has not been cleaned for ages, you can use this technique. But remember, you just cannot use any water as it will be detrimental to the mat’s lifespan. You will need warm, soapy water and soft cleaning material such as a sponge to clean properly. If one uses the rough part of the sponge, the mat’s surface can be damaged. Follow the instructions below to clean your mat properly by washing it.
Step 1: Submerge the sponge in the soapy water.
Step 2: Next, scrub your mat gently with the sponge, gradually building up a good lather.
Step 3: Focus on scrubbing the areas that are most damaged and maintain a circular flow.
Step 4: Once done with the scrubbing, wash it with clean water or under a tap.
Step 5: Now, let it dry naturally, and don’t try to speed up the drying process.
Following the above steps, you should be able to clean your mat properly and retain its stickiness. If the adhesiveness does not return even after following these, know that it is time to change your mat.
A Few Extra Tips on How to Clean Cricut Mat
Here are some additional tips and techniques for increasing the lifespan of your mat:
Remember to store the mats only on flat surfaces and avoid rolling, folding, or setting on their ends. Using a hook works best, and you can hang it on it away from any surface touch. This will ensure that your mats are saved from falling on the floor and getting dirty.
You must remove the protective cover before putting the material on the mat. You can keep it safe while cutting, but remember to replace it or put it back on as soon as you finish cutting your project.
There are generally three kinds of mats: purple, blue, and green. Each one is used for different purposes, so remember to use the right mat for your material. If any confusion arises, use the required stronger mat.
To spread the wear and tear of the mat evenly, you must use different areas on the mat for cutting. Most often, people use the top left corner of the mat, such as when dealing with small designs. So, avoid using a particular area for different designs.
Following the above tips can increase the lifespan of one’s mat. But remember that if the stickiness still has not recovered after all these methods, it is time to change your machine mat altogether!
Wrapping Up
With this full guide on how to clean Cricut mat, I hope that your view of changing your mat as your first instinct might change. Make sure to follow these steps, and the life of your mat is sure to extend, thereby giving optimal performance to your machine. Happy crafting! Moreover, I hope that you will enjoy learning this crucial aspect of cleanliness!
FAQs
How do I clean and maintain my Cricut mat?
To maintain your mat, first remove any surface debris with a flat instrument such as a scraper or ruler edge. Next, you can use a sticky lint roller to remove dust and debris while rolling in the direction of the paper grain. Wipe off the mat with an alcohol-free baby wipe or damp wipe in small circles until clean, then allow to air dry. For really unclean mats, use warm, soapy water and a gentle sponge, avoiding the scouring side. Finally, to increase the longevity of your mats, store them flat and choose the appropriate mat for your material. By following these procedures, you can keep your mat sticky and ready for precise cuts every time.
Can I use alcohol wipes to clean a Cricut mat?
Yes, machine mats can be cleaned using baby wipes. Wipe the mat in circular strokes to remove debris and restore its stickiness. Avoid using baby wipes containing alcohol. Scrape out larger chunks from your mat after each usage, then wipe with soapy water, baby wipes, or a paper towel.
What is the best Cricut mat cleaner?
Wet wipes or baby wipes without alcohol work best for cleaning mats. Just give the mat a quick wipe down in small circles until it’s clean, then let it dry. Use a soft sponge and a mild dish detergent combined with lukewarm water for a deeper clean; do not use the scouring side. Rollers with sticky lint are also useful for clearing surface debris. Dish soap might lessen the stickiness of the mat, so avoid using it by itself. You may prolong the life of your mats before having to replace them by properly cleaning them.
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Source: How to Clean Cricut Mat
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