How to Find the Right Floor Mats for Your Ford

Floor mats are a simple yet powerful accessory for your Ford car, truck, or SUV. They’ll keep your car clean and minimize the fallout from spilled drinks or dirty shoes. Finding the best floor mats will help you get the best possible coverage and performance from your investment.

Understanding the Importance of Floor Mats

Quality floor mats provide effective protection from the elements. Macon sees a little of everything, from spring rains and dusty summers to the occasional winter snow. Whether you’re tracking sand back from Sandy Beach Park or coming home dirty from the Macon Mud Run, there’s no end to the messes you might find in your vehicle.

Floor mats keep your carpeting pristine and streamline cleanup when your floors get dirty. The right product will help you retain the value of your Ford so you can get a better price if you trade your vehicle in.

Key Considerations Before Purchase

Focus on functionality when you’re choosing floor mats for your Ford. Though you can find some eye-catching options with bright colors or engaging designs, these usually detract from the durability and life span of the product. Consider how you typically use your vehicle, and get mats that can tolerate wear and tear. If you engage in a lot of outdoor activities, frequently have food and drinks in the car, or travel with pets and kids, you need sturdy floor mats that can handle the mess.

Understanding Your Ford Model’s Specifications

Floor mats are not a one-size-fits-all product. You need to purchase mats designed for the exact year and model of your Ford. If you purchase floor mats from the manufacturer, you’re guaranteed a great fit. If you’re buying from another company, read the specifications carefully and make sure your vehicle is listed as a compatible option. Close won’t cut it for this accessory.

Climate Considerations for Floor Mat Materials

In Macon, we see more rain than snow, but both can and do occur. In the winter of 1972-73, Macon saw a record-breaking 16.5 inches of snow. Our precipitation types, combined with the potential for sand and mud, mean that you need a heavy-duty, waterproof product to protect the floor of your Ford. Only choose carpet if you’re meticulous about where you walk and rarely get dirt in your vehicle.

Types of Floor Mats

Ford floor mats are generally either carpet or rubber. The material you choose makes a huge difference in the functionality of this accessory.

Rubber

Rubber floor mats are the best choice for capturing spills, catching debris, and keeping your car clean. They’re often textured with grooves or ridges that give your feet a slip-proof place to rest. Beware of tiny grooves, however, as they’re difficult to clean properly. All-weather rubber is typically built for hot and cold conditions and offers excellent water resistance. Rubber mats with sidewalls offer the best protection, providing a basin deep enough to hold a spilled soda or coffee until you can lift the mat and pour it out.

Carpet

Carpet floor mats are the most affordable option, but you’ll need to replace them more often, so you might not save money in the long run. They require more care and attention to retain their appearance and won’t catch spilled liquids. However, some people prefer the upscale look of carpet floor mats. You’ll also find premium carpet products that are slightly more durable, but this comes with a higher price tag and still has many of the cons mentioned here.

Custom Fit vs. Universal Floor Mats

Car floor mats are either designed with a custom fit or sold as universal products. It’s important to understand both options.

Benefits of Custom-Fit Mats

Custom-fit floor mats are designed to your Ford’s exact specifications. If you’re looking for a rubber mat with sidewalls, a custom option will give you full protection and a mat that stays put. A custom fit means you won’t have any unprotected patches or unusual overlaps when you install the mat, which is best for full functionality and protection.

When To Opt for Universal Mats

Universal mats are a more affordable pick. If you’re looking for something cheap with minimal protection, this is a fine choice. You can usually get a more workable fit from a universal carpet mat than a rubber one.

Additional Features To Consider

When you’re shopping for Ford floor mats, there are a few key elements to think about. Floor mats are great when they stay in place, but they can be hazardous if they move around. Anti-slip backing is a useful feature that improves the mat’s functionality and keeps it where you want it. This is especially important if you’re using a universal mat, but even the best custom floor mats sit better when they’re anti-slip.

Consider the cleaning process for your floor mat when you make your selection. Keep in mind that you’ll need to remove and clean your mats regularly. Intricate designs are hard to scrub clean, especially if the mat isn’t waterproof.

How To Ensure Perfect Installation and Maintenance

Thoroughly clean your Ford’s carpets before installing a floor mat. If the carpet isn’t pristine, your mat will only grind the dirt into the fibers. Install the mats carefully to cover as much of the floor as possible. If you can still see carpeting around the edge of the mat, you’ll need to vacuum this area regularly.

Clean your mats at least once each season and more often if they’re visibly dirty. Treat stains immediately — even rubber floor mats are tough to clean if sticky messes melt in the sun or harden in cold weather. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for cleaning your mats, as every product is different.

Find the Right Floor Mats for Your Ford at Riverside Ford

If you’re in the market for new floor mats, our team at Riverside Ford can help. We can custom order the parts and accessories you need for your Ford or offer top-notch recommendations for finding the right fit. Contact us to learn more.

Ford in to the wild by Sven D is licensed with Unsplash License