How to Clean and Store Your Wargaming Play Mat Properly
By Mats by Mars - Print-On-Demand Wargaming and Role | Published: 2026-10-13
Category: Tips & Care
Keep your wargaming mat looking sharp and rolling flat. Follow this simple, step-by-step routine for cleaning, drying, and storing your play mat so it lasts for years.
Quick answer
Clean your wargaming play mat by wiping it with a damp cloth and mild soap, then let it air-dry completely before storing. For storage, roll the mat loosely with the printed side facing outward, or lay it flat if you have the space. Never fold a mat or store it damp, as both can cause permanent creases and surface damage.
Why proper mat care matters more than you think
A wargaming mat takes a beating: dice, metal miniatures, terrain pieces, and the occasional spilled drink. Dirt and grit act like sandpaper under models, wearing down the printed surface. Moisture trapped in a folded mat can weaken the material and encourage mold. A few minutes of care after each session protects your investment and keeps the battlefield looking sharp.
The exact cleaning method depends on your mat's material. Mats by Mars mats use a heavy-weight matte banner material with a slight texture, which is wet-erase compatible and easy to clean. If you own a neoprene mat, the same basic steps apply, but you should avoid soaking the edges where layers can separate.
Gather your cleaning supplies
You do not need a cabinet full of specialty products. A soft microfiber cloth, a second clean cloth for drying, a spray bottle with lukewarm water, and a drop of mild dish soap cover most situations. For stubborn stains, keep a soft-bristled brush (like an old toothbrush) on hand. Avoid abrasive sponges, paper towels, and harsh chemicals such as ammonia or bleach, which can dull the print or break down the mat's surface.
Your step-by-step mat care routine
- Clear and pre-clean: Remove all miniatures, terrain, dice, and tokens from the mat. Shake it gently outdoors or vacuum with a brush attachment on low suction to lift loose dust and grit. Skipping this step grinds particles into the surface when you wipe. Checkpoint: no visible crumbs or sand left on the mat.
- Wipe with a damp cloth: Mix a drop of mild dish soap in a bowl of lukewarm water. Dampen a soft microfiber cloth, wring it out so it is barely wet, and wipe the entire surface in gentle, overlapping strokes. For sticky spots, let the cloth sit for a few seconds before wiping again. Never pour water directly onto the mat. Checkpoint: the cloth picks up dirt without leaving puddles.
- Spot-clean tough stains: For dried paint, soda, or grease, apply a tiny amount of mild soap directly to the spot and work it in with a soft-bristled brush using light circular motions. Wipe away residue with a clean damp cloth. Avoid scrubbing hard, which can fuzz the texture or fade the print. Checkpoint: stain lifts without visible wear on the design.
- Rinse and dry completely: Wipe the mat once more with a clean cloth dampened with plain water to remove soap residue. Then lay the mat flat or hang it over a shower rod or clothesline to air-dry. Do not use a hair dryer or direct sunlight, which can warp the material. Make sure both sides are dry before storage. Checkpoint: no damp spots remain on either side.
- Store rolled or flat, never folded: For short-term storage, roll the mat loosely with the printed side facing outward and secure it with a strap or place it in a wide tube. For long-term storage, lay it flat in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you must stack items on top, keep them light and evenly distributed. Checkpoint: no sharp creases or heavy pressure points.
- Do a seasonal deep clean: Every few months, or before a big event, repeat the full wash and inspect the edges for fraying or delamination. Store the mat only after it is completely dry. If you notice a persistent odor, air it out flat for a day before rolling it up again. Checkpoint: mat looks and smells fresh, edges intact.
Mats built for easy care
- Mats by Mars: Parched Earth Tabletop Wargaming Play Mat: Mats by Mars Tabletop Wargaming and Role-playing mats are an immersive backdrop printed on ultra-durable heavy weight matte banner material, with a slight texture that keeps models from sliding. The textured surface grips miniatures during play, but it also traps dust and crumbs. A quick wipe after each session keeps that grip working.
- Mats by Mars: Swamplands Tabletop Wargaming Play Mat: Mats by Mars mats are wet-erase compatible and easy to clean. You can use a damp cloth or wet-erase markers without worrying about damaging the print, making cleanup fast and simple.
