New rubber mats emit a chemical smell that can be quite overpowering, especially if these mats are in your car where the smell can permeate through an enclosed space. This smell can be more than irritating and can even cause headaches. Removing this odour takes a little bit of perseverance but is well worth it once the odour is gone.
Fill a tub or sink with warm soapy water and add 1 cup of white vinegar.
Place the mats in the water, making sure that they are completely submerged.
Allow the mats to soak for at least 30 minutes.
Scrub the mats with a clean cloth and rinse them with clean water.
Place the mats outside in the sunshine to dry. Leave the mats outside even after they are dry as the sunshine will help to kill of any lingering odours. Give the mats at least 3 hours in direct sunlight.
Tip
If the mats are for the car, place a dish of baking soda or fresh coffee grounds in the car to help absorb the odours in the air.