Gun Cleaning Mats: Everything You Need to Know

Every firearm owner knows that proper maintenance is key to performance and longevity. But one often-overlooked tool can make gun cleaning safer, easier, and more effective: the gun cleaning mat.

A quality mat is more than just a glorified mousepad or an old towel – it’s a dedicated workspace that protects both your firearm and your work surface while keeping your cleaning process organized. 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into everything a serious gun owner should know about gun cleaning mats, including their benefits, the different materials and features available, tips for choosing the right one, and how to care for them.

By the end, you’ll see why savvy shooters (and professionals) rely on these mats – and why Cerus Gear’s ProMat stands out as a leader in this category.

Why You Need a Gun Cleaning Mat

If you’ve ever stripped and cleaned a firearm on a bare table or over some newspapers, you’ve likely dealt with scratches, stains, or lost small parts. Gun cleaning mats are designed to prevent all that. 

They provide a stable, protective surface for cleaning and disassembly, preventing scratches to your firearm and to the surface beneath it. They also catch drips of solvent and oil, so those chemicals don’t ruin your workbench (or your kitchen table). In short, a good mat acts as a shield for your firearms and your furniture.

Just as importantly, a mat helps keep you organized during maintenance. Small springs, pins, screws and other parts tend to roll away and disappear at the worst times. Many gun mats include built-in trays, compartments, or even magnetic areas to hold tiny components in place, so you don’t lose critical pieces during cleaning. 

Even a basic mat without dedicated trays still provides a defined workspace where you can lay out parts in an orderly fashion, reducing the risk of anything rolling off the table. This level of organization makes the cleaning process more efficient and hassle-free.

Finally, a purpose-built cleaning mat contributes to safety and efficiency. It often has a non-slip backing, meaning it stays put on your bench and won’t skid around as you apply pressure to scrub or when you’re driving pins in/out.

The padded surface cushions your firearm, preventing cosmetic dings, and can even dampen the sound of parts clattering – useful if you’re cleaning in a shared space. All of these factors let you focus on the cleaning task with minimal distractions or accidents, which is especially valuable when working on complex assemblies.

Simply put, using a proper mat helps ensure that gun cleaning is a cleaner, safer process from start to finish.

What about using a towel or a piece of cardboard? It’s true – plenty of folks have cleaned guns on old rags, newspapers, or cheap foam desk mats. And in a pinch, those can work. But they offer nowhere near the same level of protection and convenience.

Thin cloth can soak through with solvent, letting chemicals reach your table. A regular towel might slip or snag on parts, and it won’t contain small pieces that bounce away.

As one firearms blogger put it:

“while a towel or old cloth might seem quick, only a dedicated cleaning mat offers the protection and functionality [you need]”.

In short, a good gun cleaning mat is an inexpensive upgrade that pays off every time you clean your firearms.

Key Benefits at a Glance

To summarize the advantages of using a gun cleaning mat, here are the top benefits every gun owner can appreciate:

Surface Protection

A mat creates a barrier between harsh cleaning chemicals and your benchtop. Solvents and oils won’t soak into your work surface or stain it, and any spills can be wiped up easily.

The mat itself absorbs or contains the mess, preventing corrosion or damage to your table. Likewise, the soft top of the mat protects your firearm’s finish from scratches while you work.

Organization of Small Parts

By providing a defined workspace (often with printed diagrams or labeled compartments), cleaning mats help you keep track of every pin, spring, and screw.

Some mats feature built-in parts trays or magnetic sections to secure tiny components. This means no more crawling on the floor searching for that elusive detent pin – the mat keeps everything in one place.

Non-Slip Stability

Quality gun mats have a grippy backing (usually rubber or neoprene) that grabs onto your workbench. This non-slip feature ensures the mat (and your firearm) won’t slide around as you apply force while scrubbing or punching out pins.

The result is a stable, safe work surface that lets you concentrate on maintenance without chasing a skittering gun across the bench.

Durability and Reusability

Unlike disposable rags or cardboard, a good mat is built to last through many cleaning sessions. Most are made of tough, solvent-resistant materials (more on that below) that can withstand heavy use and repeated exposure to gun oils and cleaners.

Investing in a durable mat means you won’t have to constantly replace it – many shooters use the same mat for years, and top brands even back them with lifetime warranties.

Convenience & Portability

Gun mats are easy to roll up or store when not in use, and many are light enough to take on the go.

Going to the range or on a hunting trip? You can bring a mat to use on a tailgate or bench to protect your firearm in the field. Some mats even have grommets or loops to hang them up, or come with a carry case. In short, they make it convenient to set up a clean workstation wherever you are.

As you can see, a quality cleaning mat is a small investment that yields big returns in protection, organization, and ease of use.

Now, let’s look more closely at what these mats are made of and why material matters.

Types of Gun Cleaning Mat Materials

Not all gun mats are created equal – the material and construction play a huge role in how the mat performs. The current market offers mats made from a few different materials, each with their own pros and cons.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of gun cleaning mat materials and what you should know about each:

Vulcanized Rubber / Neoprene

These are the most popular materials for modern gun mats – and for good reason. Rubber-based mats (including neoprene, a type of synthetic rubber) are tough, chemical-resistant, and non-slip.

They do not easily absorb liquids; instead, oils and solvents tend to sit on the surface, where they can be wiped off without soaking in. A vulcanized rubber mat won’t warp or crack even after months of exposure to cleaning chemicals.

Neoprene mats offer similar resistance and have a bit of cushioning “give” to them, which protects your gun and also helps the mat lie flat. Both rubber and neoprene mats have textured, grippy backings that keep them firmly in place on your bench.

Another big plus is durability: these mats are built for repeated, heavy-duty use – they retain their shape and integrity even under frequent cleanings and rough handling. In short, rubber/neoprene mats are an ideal choice for serious, regular gun maintenance. 

Fun fact: Cerus Gear’s ProMats use a vulcanized rubber base for stability, with a heat-bonded polyester surface on top – a combination that provides a cushioned, non-slip workspace that stands up to solvents.

Soft Fabric (Polyester Felt or Acrylic Cloth)

Some cleaning pads take a simpler approach, using an absorbent fabric material (often polyester felt, fleece, or a soft acrylic) bonded to a thin, waterproof backing.

These fabric-top mats excel at soaking up spills – one product claims its acrylic surface “absorbs 8 times its weight in fluids”. The advantage here is that oils and solvents get trapped in the mat instead of pooling on the surface, so your parts aren’t sitting in a slick of chemicals.

The fabric also dries quickly once washed. On the downside, when a fabric mat becomes saturated with grime and oil, you’ll need to wash it before next use, otherwise it can harbor odors or transfer dirt back to your gun.

The good news is most of these are machine washable or easily hand-washed with soap and water. Fabric mats tend to be very lightweight and foldable, making them easy to transport or store.

They’re a budget-friendly option as well. Just be aware that they may not last as long as thicker rubber mats, and they usually lack the crisp printed diagrams found on other types. Think of these as the “no-frills” work pads – inexpensive and functional, though not as feature-rich.

Canvas or Cotton Mats

A more traditional style, canvas mats (often with a layer of quilted cotton or flannel) appeal to those who like a classic look and feel. They don’t rely on synthetic rubber; instead, heavy canvas provides durability and a bit of water resistance, while a softer cotton/fleece side cushions the gun.

Canvas is breathable and actually lets solvent vapors evaporate rather than trapping moisture, which can reduce strong odors and help the mat dry out after use. These mats often have an elegant, subdued appearance (some shooters even use them as display pads for handguns).

They are generally absorbent to an extent and usually washable as well. The trade-off is that canvas mats can be bulkier to roll up, and they may not have the same non-slip grip as rubber-backed mats.

They’re also not as commonly found with printed schematics or artwork. Still, for an old-school, reliable bench pad, canvas is effective – it’s tough, lies flat, and protects surfaces well. A high-quality canvas mat can last decades if cared for, as it’s basically built like rugged work gear.

Specialty Materials (Silicone, Leather, etc.)

Beyond the big three above, there are a few niche options worth mentioning. Silicone mats have started appearing on the market – these are semi-rigid, rubbery mats (similar to a silicone baking mat) that are completely impermeable to liquids and often include molded compartments and magnetic slots for parts.

They’re highly chemical-resistant and easy to wipe down, though less common and usually smaller in size. Some DIY enthusiasts even use large silicone craft mats or armorers’ bench trays as cleaning surfaces, since they offer similar benefits (parts containment, easy cleaning).

On the opposite end of the spectrum, a handful of traditionalists use leather hides as a cleaning pad – for example, one shooter cut a piece of boar hide leather to use as a durable, thick work surface.

Leather is certainly rugged and oil-tolerant (and looks “cool”), but it’s not as practical for detailed cleaning – it can hold onto moisture and isn’t cheap. 

By and large, rubber/neoprene and fabric mats dominate the market because they hit the sweet spot of performance and cost, but it’s good to know there are specialty solutions out there for unique needs.

Absorbent vs. Non-Absorbent: Which is Better?

One key distinction you may notice is that some mats are designed to absorb liquids (like the fabric and canvas types), while others are designed to resist liquids and have them pool on the surface (rubber/neoprene types). Each approach has its pros and cons:

Absorbent mats

Absorbent mats (felt, cloth) will soak up oils and solvents, keeping the surface of the mat relatively dry. This can be nice because you won’t accidentally sleeve your arm in a puddle of CLP, and small parts won’t be as likely to slide through a slick of oil.

However, the mat itself will get dirty and saturated over time, meaning you’ll need to wash it periodically. If left uncleaned, an absorbent mat can become grimy or even leach old solvent back out. The big positive is these mats truly protect your underlying surface by trapping chemicals.

Non-absorbent mats

Non-absorbent mats (rubber, closed-cell foam) will not soak in liquids – instead, spills stay on top, where you can wipe them off with a paper towel. The advantage here is easy cleanup and no lingering odors; the mat doesn’t need deep cleaning every time, just a quick wipe down. Also, these mats won’t become increasingly heavy with accumulated oils.

The downside is if you knock the mat or tilt it, the pooled solvent could run off. And if you’re working at a steep angle, oils won’t absorb – they’ll just sit there (though in normal use this isn’t a big issue).

Many experts actually prefer non-absorbent, rubberized mats specifically because they don’t harbor chemicals – “after a few cleanings, your mat will be full of carbon, oil and solvent… replacing a mat should not be a regular occurrence.

Look for a thick, rubberized mat that resists absorbency and cleans up easily,” advises one gun-care company. In practice, both styles work, and it often comes down to personal preference.

Key Features to Consider in a Gun Cleaning Mat

Aside from material, there are a number of features and design elements to weigh when choosing a gun cleaning mat. Here are the key factors and what to look for:

Size and Thickness

Gun mats come in various sizes, so you’ll want one that fits the types of firearms you work on.

• For handguns and field-stripped AR-15 uppers, a compact mat around 12” x 24” might suffice.

• But for long guns or if you like to spread out your tools, look for a rifle-length mat in the 12” x 36” or even 16” x 60” range.

(For example, Cerus Gear’s Magnum series mats are 14” x 48”, great for shotguns and rifles, while their handgun mats are 12” x 17” for portability.)

When in doubt, going a bit larger is better – you’ll appreciate the extra space to lay out parts.

Also consider thickness: most quality mats are about 3mm (1/8”) thick.

This provides enough padding to protect the gun and surface, and prevents the mat from bunching up, while still rolling easily for storage. Some ultra-premium mats or DIY options (like leather or interlocking foam pads) can be thicker, but beyond ~5mm there’s not much added benefit and it can impede rolling it up.

Aim for a mat that is thick enough to cushion and stay flat, but not so thick that it’s unwieldy. The standard ~0.125” works well and is what we use in our products.

Non-Slip Backing

This is essential. Make sure the mat you choose explicitly mentions a non-slip or anti-skid backing. Typically this means the bottom layer is textured rubber or neoprene that grips the table.

A mat that slides around is not only frustrating but unsafe, especially when dealing with small parts or applying force to stubborn carbon.

Nearly all reputable mats have this feature (even the inexpensive ones often have a rubberized bottom), but double-check. If you ever repurpose something like a craft mat or mousepad, test its grip on your intended surface.

A good cleaning mat stays put even when you’re scrubbing hard or when the surface is wet.

Printed Diagrams or Visual Aids

One of the coolest features of many gun cleaning mats is the printed schematic or design on the top. Brands like Cerus Gear pioneered this concept of printing firearm breakdown diagrams, parts lists, or other graphics on the mat itself.

These diagram mats serve a dual purpose: They protect your bench while also acting as a reference guide for disassembly and assembly.

For example, a Glock cleaning mat might have an exploded view of all the Glock’s components labeled with their names. This can be incredibly handy if you’re less familiar with the gun’s internals or you’re teaching someone else – you can literally point to the diagram as you work. 

The image quality on these mats is an important consideration: look for mats with high-resolution, dye-sublimated printing, as this process fuses the ink into the fabric and prevents fading or peeling even after heavy use. 

Tip: Lighter-colored mats (tan, green, gray) can provide better contrast for seeing small dark gun parts, whereas black mats may hide tiny black pins or screws. 

Parts Trays, Compartments and Magnets

As mentioned earlier, certain mats incorporate physical organizers to help manage parts. When choosing a mat, consider if these features matter to you. If you already have a separate magnetic parts dish or tray on your bench, you might not need an integrated one. But if you crave minimalism – one product that does it all – a mat with built-in organizers is very convenient.

Just keep in mind that attached trays make the mat less flexible to roll up; most are designed to fold or roll around the tray, but it’s a bit more to store than a completely flat mat.

Also, trays can sometimes get in the way if you’re cleaning a very long item (like resting a rifle barrel) – though generally you can position the firearm away from the tray area.

All things considered, integrated trays/magnets are a big plus for many users, especially for complex jobs with lots of small pieces. They ensure nothing rolls off the mat. If you tend to detail-strip firearms or work on small assemblies (like trigger groups), you might want to prioritize a mat with this feature. 

Cerus Gear offers two practical solutions designed to meet these needs while maintaining flexibility and convenience:

Magnetic Molded Tray: This compact magnetic tray securely holds metal components in place during cleaning and maintenance. Its strong magnets prevent tiny springs and pins from rolling away or getting lost. The tray pairs perfectly with any cleaning mat and can be positioned anywhere on your workspace for maximum convenience.

T.R.A.P. Tray Cleaning Tray: A molded organizer featuring multiple compartments, the T.R.A.P. tray allows you to separate parts by type or assembly order. It’s especially valuable for those who frequently perform detailed disassembly or gunsmithing, providing clear organization without cluttering your cleaning surface.

By using external organizers like these, your cleaning mat remains flat, easy to roll, and simple to store. This setup provides the best of both worlds: a spacious, unobstructed mat surface for cleaning and a reliable, dedicated area for part management.

For gun owners who regularly detail-strip or work with intricate assemblies such as trigger groups, combining a Cerus Gear mat with the Magnetic Molded Tray or T.R.A.P. Tray enhances efficiency and peace of mind, ensuring nothing rolls off the bench or gets misplaced during maintenance.

Ease of Cleaning

Eventually, your gun mat will get dirty – that’s its job! Check what the manufacturer says about cleaning it. Most rubber/polyester mats can simply be wiped down with a rag or paper towel.

If heavily soiled, you can wash them with mild soap and water (in a utility sink or with a hose). They should then be air-dried (rubber mats dry fairly quickly since they don’t absorb water). Padded fabric mats may be machine washable. Canvas mats likewise can be washed per their instructions (just be cautious with very hot water which might shrink cotton). The key is that a good mat tolerates cleaning without falling apart. 

Extra Uses and Storage

Think about how you might use the mat beyond gun cleaning. Many gun mats double as great workbench protectors for any kind of tinkering or as a cushioned surface for mounting scopes or doing light gunsmithing.

Some shooters line their tool chest with an extra mat, or use a mat under a reloading press to catch powder and protect the bench. Cerus Gear actually notes that their ProMats are versatile enough to serve as protective surfaces for a variety of tasks – use them on toolboxes, tailgates, or workbenches for added protection.

Also, large mats can work as nice shooting bench covers at the range (so your rifle doesn’t sit on a hard table surface). So, a mat’s value isn’t limited to cleaning – it’s a multi-purpose gear item. For storage, consider how you’ll stow the mat when not in use. Most people roll them up. 

Pro Tip: roll the mat with the printed side facing inward (this protects the printed surface and helps the mat unroll and lie flat next time without curled edges). 

Matching Your Cleaning Mat to Your Needs

Every gun owner’s maintenance routine is a little different. You might clean a carry pistol at your desk once a month, or you might be stripping down multiple rifles on a workshop bench every weekend. Perhaps you need a mat that can travel to the field, or you want one that’s purely for your home workbench.

Here are some tips to choose the right mat based on your usage:

• Cleaning Frequency: How often (and how intensively) you clean should influence your choice. If you’re cleaning very regularly – say, after every range trip – you’ll put a lot of wear and tear on a mat. In that case, it pays to invest in a high-quality mat that can handle constant use without breaking down. 
  

• Primary Firearm Type: Consider the types of guns you work on most. If you’re mainly a handgun owner, a smaller mat (or even multiple small mats for different models) could be convenient. Pistol mats are easy to store and often have diagrams specific to that firearm (e.g. a 1911 mat, a SIG P365 mat, etc.).
  

• Workspace and Portability: Think about where you clean your guns. If you have a dedicated workshop or bench, you might prefer a heavy, non-portable mat that can live on the bench full-time. Some people even use multiple mats to cover a whole bench surface. In contrast, if you clean on the kitchen table or a multi-use space, you’ll want a mat that stores away easily – one you can roll up and tuck in a closet. For those who clean in different locations (home, range, hunting camp, etc.), focus on mats that are lightweight and travel-friendly.
  

• Specialty Needs: Evaluate if you have any special requirements.

  • For instance, do you often work on tiny parts or complex assemblies? If so, prioritize a mat with magnetic spots or parts trays to secure those bits.

  • Do you frequently clean very dirty or corrosive guns (like black powder rifles)? Then a mat that you can wash or even a disposable under-layer might be wise to avoid long-term chemical damage – although quality mats should handle it fine.

  • Are you particularly concerned about keeping a firearm’s finish pristine? A super-soft top surface (like a fleece or high-density polyester) would be beneficial to absolutely avoid any possibility of scratching.

  • Most gun mats are plenty soft, but some benchrest shooters, for example, love using a piece of indoor-outdoor carpet or a leather mat because it’s ultra-gentle on their finely blued barrels.

  • Lastly, consider aesthetics and brand loyalty: if you love showing off your SIG or Glock pride, getting an officially licensed mat with that logo and schematic can be satisfying

One great aspect of today’s market is that there’s a mat for everyone. Whether you need a gigantic mat to overhaul a precision rifle or a simple pad to field strip a shotgun on a tailgate, you can find an option that meets your criteria.

And if you’re really particular, you can even have custom gun mats made (Cerus Gear offers custom printing for businesses or events, for example). 

The key takeaway is: assess your routine – frequency, location, firearm type – and choose a mat accordingly. That way, your cleaning mat becomes a seamless part of your firearm maintenance, not an afterthought. 

Using and Caring for Your Cleaning Mat

Once you have a gun cleaning mat, you’ll want to maintain it so it continues to serve you well (and doesn’t develop any funky odors!).

Some quick pointers to help you use and care for your mat:

1. Always check for an unloaded firearm.
Before the mat sees your gun, double-check it’s clear. Mats are for oil and parts—not bullets.

2. Use a stable, flat surface.
Place your mat on a steady table or bench. Dry slick counters so the mat can grip.

3. Organize parts as you go.
Lay out parts in order, use trays or magnets if available, and follow the printed schematic if your mat has one.

4. Wipe it down after each use.
Clean the mat with a towel or rag. For oily spots, use mild soap and water.

5. Deep clean when needed.
Rubber mats: hand wash gently. Fabric mats: gentle machine wash (no bleach). Let dry completely before storage.

6. Roll, don’t fold.
Store mats flat or rolled with graphics facing in. Avoid creases and sun exposure.

7. Skip harsh chemicals.
Avoid acetone or strong solvents. Use a barrier (like newspaper) for heavy-duty cleaners.

8. Use beyond guns.
Great for optics, knives, or anything small and delicate—your mat is versatile.

Following these simple care tips, your gun cleaning mat will remain an unsung hero in your firearm maintenance routine. Most mats don’t require any special pampering – they’re made to get dirty and be cleaned. By treating it well, you essentially guarantee a lifetime of service from this handy accessory (and if it’s a Cerus Gear mat, remember it literally has a lifetime warranty behind it). 

Why Cerus Gear ProMats Stand Out

We’ve touched on Cerus Gear throughout this guide, but it’s worth summarizing how and why their ProMat line distinguishes itself in the market – especially since this article is for the Cerus Gear community. 

1. Built to Last: Made with a heavy, non-slip rubber base and a heat-fused polyester top that resists oils, solvents, and wear. Easy to clean and backed by a lifetime warranty.
   
   
2. Ultra-Detailed Designs: High-res schematics with crisp, fade-proof printing. Many include step-by-step field strip guides—perfect for learning or quick reference.
   
   
3. Huge Selection + Custom Options: Dozens of models and styles—from ARs to vintage rifles, plus patriotic and lifestyle designs. Custom branding available for clubs or gifts.
   
   
4. Made in the USA: Crafted in Utah with American quality and service. Fast customer support and a real commitment to the firearm community.
   
   
5. Community-Driven: Run by gun owners, for gun owners. Cerus mats aren’t just tools, they’re a way to share knowledge and passion for firearms.

In summary, Cerus Gear’s ProMats stand out by combining premium build quality, highly detailed educational designs, and a customer-focused philosophy. They’ve effectively created the ultimate gun cleaning mats for enthusiasts who want the best protection for their firearms and surfaces, as well as an engaging way to interact with their firearms’ technical side.

While there are many good mats out there, Cerus Gear has positioned itself as a leader by refusing to cut corners or be just “good enough” – and that dedication shows in the final product.

Happy cleaning and shoot safe!

A gun cleaning mat might seem like a simple accessory, but as we’ve explored, it’s a cornerstone of an effective firearm maintenance setup.

By providing a protected, organized, and comfortable workspace, a good mat ensures that cleaning your firearms is easier, safer, and more efficient.

It safeguards your firearms’ finish and your furniture, keeps pesky small parts from wandering off, and even serves as a visual aid to deepen your understanding of your guns. For serious gun owners who invest time and care into maintenance, a quality mat isn’t optional – it’s essential gear.

So, equip yourself with a quality gun cleaning mat and take pride in the care of your firearms. Your guns will last longer, your workspace will stay pristine, and your maintenance time will be more enjoyable and productive.

And if anyone asks why you’re so enthusiastic about what seems like just a “pad,” you can share a few insights from this guide – you might just convert them to the way of the gun mat as well!

Happy cleaning and shoot safe! With a trusty mat (especially if it’s a Cerus Gear ProMat), you’re well on your way to mastering firearm maintenance and keeping your guns in top-notch condition for years to come.