The daily cleaning of wrestling mats is critical to prevent the spread of communicable bacteria, viruses and fungi. One report published in the Western Journal of Medicine states that contact sports such as wrestling are breeding grounds for the spread of diseases like impetigo, warts, ringworm and herpes. Around 25 percent of high school athletes in one study the report cited showed signs of bacterial infection, while 34 percent of the athletes in one studied wrestling camp were infected with herpes simplex.
Step 1
Remove any tape holding the wrestling mats together. Because dirt, cleaning solution and sweat can be trapped under adhesive tape used to hold multiple mats together in a wrestling room, it is important to remove and discard such tape before cleaning begins.
Step 2
Use a soft bristled dust broom to sweep the mats. Beginning at one corner of the mat, push the broom along the width of the mat until you reach the opposing side. Without lifting the broom, pivot so you can sweep the next width of mat in the opposing direction. Always walk behind the broom in the swept area of the mat so dirt is not spread around. Continue the procedure until all of the mats have been swept clean of dust and larger detritus.
Step 3
Mix a cleaning solution in a mop bucket. According to the Long Island Wrestling Association, a solution that is one part bleach, 70 percent isopropyl alcohol and hydrogen peroxide to 100 parts hot water can be used to effectively disinfect the wrestling mats. There are also specially made cleaning solutions for wrestling mats available. If you are using such a cleaning solution, follow the mixing instructions on the label carefully.
Step 4
Submerge the mop in the cleaning solution and thoroughly ring out the excess water. Carry the mop to the furthest corner of the mat from the point of entry and set the mop head down there. Hold the mop handle at the top with your less-dominant hand and in the middle with your dominant hand. Glide the mop along the width of the mat as you did while sweeping. Do not lift the mop when you reach the edge, but turn it instead and mop in the opposing direction. Continue mopping left to right in a single motion. Rewet and ring out the mop as necessary.
Step 5
Allow the mats to fully dry before you begin use, including areas between mats. Retape the wrestling mats together if necessary.
Tips and Warnings
- Do not walk on any mopped area of the mat as you are cleaning. Only wear socks or wrestling shoes when walking on the wrestling mat.
- Cracks and tears in wrestling mats should be repaired immediately, as these areas can harbor diseases and are difficult to clean.
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