How to Get Rid of the Smell From Interlocking Flooring

Interlocking flooring, or modular flooring, is commonly made from interlocking tiles and mats. They're easy to set up and reconfigure, like the pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. Ideal for temporary settings, such as fitness flooring, play areas, garage and in construction jobs, interlocking floors are usually made of foam, rubber or polypropylene, and are resistant to water, oil, grease, petroleum and antifreeze. Maintenance is easy: simply wipe off the spills or wash it with a hose. However, if not cleaned promptly, some spills may leak into the seams and cause a foul smell. Even the new mats have a rubbery smell occasionally.

Steam vacuum
Mild dishwashing detergent
Mop
Washcloth
Water hose

Instructions

- 1
  Wash down the mat with a hose immediately after installation. This will help remove the rubbery smell associated with some new interlocking tiles and mats. You may also use a deodorizer to reduce the smell.
- 2
  Check whether the interlocking tiles or mats are glued if the smell is coming from an old mat. Removing the glued mats may damage them. So, try steam vacuuming the area to remove the smell. The steam vacuum may suck up the dirt and debris and remove the source of the bad smell.
- 3
  Remove the unglued tiles or mat pieces carefully. If you haven’t removed the mat for a while, even the unglued pieces may have adhered to each other due to dirt and grime. Hence, remove the locks slowly.
- 4
  Fill a tub with water and wash the tile or mat pieces using a mild dishwashing liquid detergent. Rinse the tiles under running water to remove excess soap.
- 5
  Dry the tiles or mat pieces completely before reinstalling them. Also clean the floor underneath the tiles with a mop or a steam vacuum to remove any residual smell.

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