Built for Seasonal Owners
Some homeowners use a garage mat year-round. Others use it mainly during winter, rainy months, or muddy seasons.
If you store the mat during warmer months, the way you store it matters. A clean, dry, properly folded mat is easier to reinstall and more likely to lay flat when the next season begins.
Clean Before Storage
Never store the mat dirty.
Mud, salt, snow residue, oil drips, and debris become harder to clean after sitting for weeks or months. Before folding the mat, sweep loose dirt and clean any visible mess.
Storage preparation checklist:
|
Step |
Why It Matters |
|
Sweep dry debris |
Prevents grit from rubbing against the mat |
|
Clean salt residue |
Helps reduce winter buildup |
|
Wipe oil or fluid marks |
Prevents long-term contamination |
|
Remove standing water |
Reduces odor and moisture issues |
|
Check the drainage outlet |
Make sure the foam and hook-and-loop closure are clean and dry |
If the mat was used during winter, pay extra attention to road salt and slush residue.
Let It Fully Dry
A mat should be fully dry before storage.
If you fold it while wet, moisture may stay trapped inside. This can create odor or make the mat unpleasant to reinstall later.
Let the mat air dry in a ventilated area. If needed, lift sections of the mat carefully to allow moisture underneath to dry.
Do not store the mat immediately after rinsing.
Fold
Before folding:
Make sure the surface is clean.
Make sure the mat is dry.
Remove loose debris from the underside.
Keep the drainage outlet area protected.
Avoid sharp compression points.
If your model includes a removable foam strip for the drainage outlet, make sure it is clean, dry, and stored safely.
Fold & Lock Method
Use the Fold & Lock method for seasonal storage.
|
Step |
Action |
|
Start |
Begin folding from one short side |
|
Keep it even |
Fold in a straight line to avoid twisting |
|
Keep it firm |
Fold tight enough to hold shape, but do not crush the edges |
|
Secure it |
Use a soft strap or tie if needed |
|
Store it |
Place it in a cool, dry indoor area |
Do not place heavy objects on top of the folded mat.
Store in a Cool, Dry Area
Choose an indoor storage location that protects the mat from damage.
Best storage areas include a garage shelf, utility room, basement storage area, or clean corner away from sharp tools and chemical containers.
Avoid:
Outdoor storage.
Direct sun for long periods.
Heavy items placed on top.
Sharp objects nearby.
Open flames or sparks.
Gasoline, propane, or flammable materials near the mat.
Extreme heat.
The goal is simple: keep the mat clean, dry, and free from pressure damage.
Reinstalling After Storage
When it is time to use the mat again, unroll it near the final parking area and allow it to relax.
Check the foam strip, drainage outlet, hook-and-loop closure, and edge shape before parking. If the mat was rolled or folded for a long time, minor curl or waves may appear at first. Let the material settle before regular use.
Reinstallation steps:
Unroll the mat.
Let it relax.
Align it with the vehicle.
Install or reseal the foam drainage edge.
Check the corners or adhesive areas.
Drive onto the mat slowly and test positioning.
Seasonal Storage Tips
|
Season |
Care Tip |
|
After winter |
Clean salt residue thoroughly before rolling |
|
After rainy season |
Dry completely before storage |
|
Before moving |
Roll the mat and protect the edges during transport |
|
Before reinstalling |
Let it relax flat before parking |
Prepare Your Garage for Next Season | Contact DremGara® Support
FAQ
Can I fold the mat?
Yes you can. But please do not hard folding that may create creases and make reinstalling more difficult.
How long should it dry before storage?
Drying time depends on temperature, airflow, and how wet the mat is. Store only when the surface and underside are fully dry.
Can I store it outside?
Indoor storage is recommended. Outdoor storage may expose the mat to UV, moisture, heat, dirt, and sharp debris.
Will it flatten again after being folded?
Temporary curl or waves may appear after storage. Lay the mat flat and allow it to relax before regular parking.
Should I remove the foam strip before storage?
If the foam strip is wet or dirty, remove it, clean it, dry it, and store it safely. Reinstall it before using containment mode again.

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How to Clean and Care for Your DremGara® Containment Mat
DremGara® FAQs