Your floating water mat is the star of the summer — the launchpad for backflips, the sunbaking platform, the gathering spot for the whole crew. But like any hardworking piece of outdoor gear, it will only keep performing if you look after it. UV rays, salt water, chlorine, sand and improper storage can all shave years off your mat's life. The good news? A few simple habits will keep your Crocpad looking and performing like new for seasons to come.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about cleaning, maintaining and storing your floating water mat — Aussie conditions included.
Why Water Mat Maintenance Matters in Australia
Australia's climate is beautiful but brutal on outdoor products. Our UV index regularly hits "extreme," summer temperatures can warp materials left in direct sun, and salt water is highly corrosive. Add in the occasional cheeky cockatoo or an over-enthusiastic dog, and your mat faces plenty of challenges.
Quality closed-cell foam mats like those in the Crocpad floating water mat range are built tough with UV-resistant materials — but even the best gear benefits from a little TLC. Proper care doesn't just extend lifespan; it keeps the surface non-slip, the colours vibrant and the foam buoyant.
How to Clean Your Floating Water Mat
Cleaning your mat regularly prevents the build-up of grime, algae and salt that can degrade the material over time. Here's the routine we recommend.
After Every Use
- Rinse with fresh water. If you've been in the ocean or a chlorinated pool, hose the mat down thoroughly on both sides. Salt and chlorine left to dry will slowly break down the foam and fade the colours.
- Shake off sand and debris. Sand acts like sandpaper, gradually scuffing the surface and lodging in seams.
- Wipe down high-contact areas. Sunscreen and body oils leave residue — a quick wipe keeps the surface grippy and hygienic.
Deep Clean (Monthly or As Needed)
Once a month during heavy use, give your mat a more thorough clean:
- Lay the mat flat on a soft, clean surface like grass or a tarp.
- Mix a mild solution of warm water and a gentle dish soap. Avoid harsh detergents, bleach or solvents, which can damage the foam and strip the UV coating.
- Use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to scrub in circular motions, paying attention to textured non-slip areas where grime hides.
- Rinse completely with fresh water — soap residue can make the surface slippery.
- Dry both sides fully before rolling or storing (more on that below).
Tackling Algae and Mould
If your mat has been left in the water for extended periods, you might notice green or black spots. A solution of one part white vinegar to three parts water, applied with a soft brush and left for 10 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing, works wonders without damaging the material. Always dry thoroughly afterwards to stop regrowth.
Drying: The Step Most People Skip
Storing a damp mat is the number one cause of mould, mildew and unpleasant odours. Foam absorbs moisture, and a rolled-up wet mat becomes the perfect breeding ground for bacteria.
After cleaning or a day on the water, drape your mat over a fence, railing or two chairs so air circulates on both sides. Avoid leaving it flat on hot concrete for hours, as extreme heat can cause warping. A shaded, breezy spot is ideal. Only roll it up once it's completely dry to the touch.
Protecting Your Mat from the Sun
While Crocpad mats are UV-resistant, prolonged, unnecessary sun exposure will still accelerate wear. When you're taking a break from the water, don't leave the mat baking on the pool deck or beach all afternoon. During the off-season, never store it in direct sunlight.
If you're leaving the mat anchored on a lake or in the pool for the day, that's fine — just bring it out of the sun when you're done. This simple habit dramatically slows fading and keeps the foam supple.
How to Store Your Floating Water Mat
Correct storage is where your mat's longevity is truly won or lost. Follow these steps for the off-season or between uses:
Rolling vs Folding
Always roll your mat rather than folding it. Folding creates permanent creases and stress points in the foam that can lead to cracking over time. Roll it loosely from one end, following the natural way the mat wants to curl. Many Crocpad mats come with straps or a carry bag to keep the roll tidy.
Where to Store It
- Cool, dry and shaded. A garage, shed or storage cupboard is perfect — avoid attics or spaces that get extremely hot.
- Off the ground. Store the roll on a shelf or hang it to avoid pests and damp floors.
- Away from sharp objects. Keep tools, garden equipment and anything with a point well clear.
- Not compressed. Don't stack heavy items on top of the rolled mat, as this can deform the foam.
Repairing Minor Damage
Small nicks or surface scuffs are usually cosmetic and won't affect performance thanks to closed-cell foam construction — meaning the mat won't absorb water or lose buoyancy through minor surface damage. For larger tears, contact the retailer for advice before attempting a DIY fix, as the wrong adhesive can worsen the problem.
Check your mat's anchor points, D-rings and straps at the start of each season. These are the components most likely to wear, and catching a loose fitting early prevents losing your mat downstream on your next lake trip.
Seasonal Maintenance Checklist
Keep your mat in peak condition with this simple seasonal routine:
- Start of summer: Unroll, inspect for damage, deep clean, check anchor points and straps.
- During summer: Rinse after every use, deep clean monthly, always dry before storing.
- End of summer: Final deep clean, thorough dry, loose roll, store in a cool dry place.
Choosing a Mat Built to Last
The easiest way to reduce maintenance headaches is to start with a quality product. Cheap imitation mats often use lower-grade foam that fades, cracks and loses buoyancy within a single season, no matter how well you care for it. Investing in a durable, UV-stabilised mat means less fuss and more fun on the water.
Browse the full Crocpad floating water mat collection for family-sized options built for Aussie conditions. And while you're kitting out for summer, take a look at our inflatable water slides and dog ramps to round out the backyard and boat setup.
The Bottom Line
A floating water mat is an investment in years of family memories — but only if you treat it right. Rinse it after every use, clean it monthly, dry it thoroughly, roll it loosely and store it out of the sun. Master these five habits and your Crocpad mat will still be turning your local lake or backyard pool into a floating playground long after the cheaper alternatives have cracked and faded.
Ready to upgrade or replace a tired old mat? Explore the Crocpad range and float into a maintenance-savvy summer.
