How to Clean Cricut Cutting Mat: 5 Best Methods

In this blog, we will discuss how to clean Cricut cutting mat using 5 different methods. A Cricut mat is a useful tool that helps crafters keep their materials in place as they go through a cutting machine while crafting. It’s normal for the Cricut mat to lose its stickiness as it is used repeatedly.

In most cases, you can restore your mat’s stickiness with DIY cleaning. Proper maintenance ensures your mat lasts longer, reducing the need for replacements. Let’s explore simple, safe, and effective ways to clean your mat and make it feel like new again.

Essential Supplies for Cleaning Your Cricut Mat

How to clean a Cricut cutting mat? This is one of the most important questions asked by Cricut users. We have listed some readily available cleaning supplies. You may have them at home.

Note: You might not require all the items on the list because the items needed depend on your cleaning method.

Warm water
Mild dish soap
Soft sponge or cloth
Scraper tool
Lint roller
Baby wipes (alcohol-free)
LA’s Awesome Cleaning Spray

How to Clean Cricut Cutting Mat Easily

When your mat no longer has its natural stickiness, it’s time to be cleaned. Here are some methods to clean the machine mat:

Method 1: Using a Scraper Tool

It is the best way to clean the surface of the mat.

First, you have to use a little spray cleaner on your cutting mat.
Then, you have to scrape gently on your cutting mat so that you don’t lose the adhesive on your mat.
Rinse your cutting mat and allow it to dry.

Note: If you don’t have a plastic scraper tool, old plastic gift cards or old credit cards are fine alternatives.

Method 2: With a Lint Roller

If scraping doesn’t completely satisfy you, you can try this method.

First, you have to run your lint roller over the surface of your cutting mat to pick up dust and glitter.
Roll it gently over the mat’s surface. Avoid pressing too hard to prevent damaging the adhesive.
If you have a new sticky sheet on your roller, run it on your clothes first to reduce the gumminess.

Method 3: Using Baby Wipes

If there are still bits on your mat that you need to remove, this method is convenient since we have baby wipes in our homes. Use water-only wet wipes, which you can easily find in supermarkets.

Rub the wet wipe gently over the surface of your mat until you are satisfied. Let it pick up as much dirt as possible.
Be patient and let your mat dry naturally.
Don’t try to speed up the method by wiping it down with a towel, as this will add more fibers.

Note: Avoid wet wipes, as they contain alcohol content, which breaks down the stickiness of the glue on your mat.

Method 4: With Dish Soap

If the mild cleaning methods mentioned above didn’t perform well, you can opt for a little more rigorous cleaning. For this, you’ll need warm, soapy water and a soft sponge.

Find a plastic table on your kitchen counter.
Dip the sponge in the soapy water and start scrubbing it in a circular motion on your mat, building up a good lather.
Try to focus on the areas that are most worn and torn.
Once you’re done scrubbing, rinse your mat with lukewarm water and leave it to air dry.

Method 5: With La’s Totally Awesome Spray

This method requires caution as it may affect the adhesive of your mat. There are two sides to this. Some users have claimed that it is a good way to tackle greasy, dirty mats, while others say it hampers the mat’s stickiness.

Here’s how you can clean your mat with LA’s Totally Awesome Spray.

First, spray the cleaning spray on the cutting mat.
Wait for 10-15 minutes and allow the spray to sit on the mat.
After you let the mat soak in the spray, you can gently scrape the dirt with a scraper, using little pressure.
Rinse your machine mat with lukewarm water and then place it in a dry and clean area.

Final Thoughts

A Cricut mat is a treasure tool for every crafter. Hence, it should be kept in the best condition so that you have a great working space. You should keep your mat clean and well-maintained.

Each cleaning method mentioned above is quick and simple, and it’s a great way to extend the life of your mat. Once the mat is dry, the sticky surface will return, and you will be ready for your next project.

Frequently Asked Questions

When Should You Clean Your Cricut Mat?

You should clean your mat when it’s losing its stickiness or is covered in debris. However, it depends on the type of material you’re cutting. If you are using a messier material, like felt, or performing a lot of intricate designs and cuts with a lot of tiny pieces, you must clean it after every project.

How often: If you use your machine mat daily, you must clean it more often than someone who uses it once a week.

How to Make Your Mat Sticky Again?

Here are some quick DIY steps to restick your mat:

Clear your mat.
Use masking or painter’s tape around the non-sticky part of the mat.
Then, you can use some adhesive spray (like spray glue or quilt basting spray).
After spraying, leave it to dry for 10-15 minutes.

Note: Resticking the cutting mat cancels the Cricut machine warranty.

How Many Times Can I Use Cricut Mat?

A Cricut cutting mat typically lasts about 50 uses before it loses its stickiness and needs cleaning or replacement. However, with proper cleaning, it can extend its lifespan. If you want to increase the lifespan of the mat, you need to take some basic precautions: