To thoroughly clean a diatomite bath mat, simply brush its surface gently , lightly sand any stubborn stains, and allow it to air dry to preserve its absorbency. Regular maintenance will remove dirt , prevent limescale buildup , and restore the natural stone's shine , while maintaining its matte appearance and unique mineral texture.
Why is it necessary to regularly maintain your diatomite mat?
Diatomite, an ultra-porous stone, acts as a natural absorbent and purifying material . It captures moisture, traps impurities, and neutralizes odors, much like a multi-purpose bathroom mat. Without maintenance, the micropores become clogged and absorption slows down. A simple ritual is all it takes: clean with a dry cloth to remove dirt and let the surface breathe. This maintains perfect hygiene, prevents stubborn stains from setting in, and extends the mat's lifespan while preventing the formation of limescale or dust mites .
Daily cleaning
After each shower, allow the rug to air dry. Once a week, wipe it with a damp cloth or sponge to remove dust and soap. Rub gently without using any chemicals. This dry or wet cleaning, as needed, prevents soiling, maintains the material's porosity, and ensures quick drying. If necessary, use a little sparkling water or a mild cleaning product . You can also lightly mist the surface with water before finishing with a dry cloth .
- Brush lightly once a week to remove dirt
- Allow to dry naturally for effective cleaning
- Avoid prolonged immersion or soaking
In case of stains: the right action
For stubborn stains (soap, ink , blood , or tar ), light, localized sanding is all that's needed. Use fine sandpaper (400–600 grit) and gently rub in circular motions. This will remove the thin layer of grime and restore the stone's original appearance. Then, rinse thoroughly or wipe with a cloth dampened with clean water to remove any residue. Let it rest and dry flat. This simple step regenerates the surface and restores the carpet's shine without altering its mineral texture.
- 400–600 grit sandpaper for deep cleaning
- Use gentle, even movements to avoid damaging the surface.
- Leave on for a few minutes after rinsing before drying
Mistakes to avoid during cleaning
Avoid soaking, steaming, and using harsh detergents : these cleaning products can damage the microporous structure of diatomite. Never use turpentine , chemical stain removers , or wire brushes . If you wish to remove limescale from your mat, opt for light dry sanding. Never boil or immerse it. A simple dry cloth or soft sponge is sufficient for thorough cleaning without causing damage. This method preserves the material's natural antibacterial properties and avoids altering its absorbency.
Reviving a worn diatomite mat
Is your surface smooth, dull, or yellowed? Give it a thorough cleaning : even sanding reactivates the pores and restores its original whiteness. You can lightly dampen the stone with a sponge or spray it with a little water before sanding. Then, wipe it with a dry cloth to finish cleaning and let it dry. This process removes ingrained dirt and restores shine without damaging the texture. To prolong its lifespan, clean the underside of the mat and the areas in contact with the floor as needed , just as you would a sink, basin, or toilet bowl, to remove sodium and soap deposits . To discover durable and elegant designs, visit our diatomite bath mat collection .