Credit: Getty ImagesCar mats see a lot of dirt. Muddy feet, sports gear, spills, crunched-up snacks, sand, and pet hair land there, but a quick pass of the vacuum can usually get them looking good again. The odors they leave behind can still linger. If you are riding around town with the windows open because odors are a problem, you need to address more than the visible dirt. Don't rely on car air fresheners to cover the smell because they mask odors instead of getting rid of them. As their scents fade, that musty odor from your floor mats just returns. The key to getting rid of the smell? Baking soda. Just like the carpets in your house, a sprinkle of baking soda can neutralize odors so they won't come back. Follow these steps to get your car's stinky floor mats clean and smelling fresh.How Often To Clean Car Floor MatsDepending on daily use and how dirty they get, you should vacuum car floor mats every one to two weeks and wash them every one to three months. Removing loose dirt and debris keeps it from getting ground into the carpet fibers. Between cleanings, shake the mats out when there is visible dirt and vacuum as needed.Considerations Before Getting StartedWet spots can lead to mold and mildew, so don't let spills or accidents sit. Moisture can also become trapped between the car mat and the carpet, so remove the mats and let them dry out after particularly harsh exposure to moisture.Tough stains like pet urine, set-in smoke, vomit, sour milk, and mold may require extra attention. Baking soda is good at removing surface odors, but it can't clean and remove these odors on its own. In these cases, consider having the mats professionally cleaned.What You'll NeedVacuum cleanerBaking sodaDish soapWarm waterStiff-bristled brushCarpet cleaner (optional)Garden hoseHow To Clean With Baking SodaStep 1: Get Rid Of Visible DirtClean up any food wrappers, trash, shoes, grocery bags, and other items off the floors. Take the mats out of the car and shake them out to remove any loose dirt, crumbs, and debris. Lay the mats flat, and vacuum both sides to remove any remaining dirt.Step 2: Wash The MatsCombine warm water and a few drops of dish soap in a bucket. Dip a stiff-bristled brush into the soapy water and work it into the mats in a circular motion.Alternatively, you can use carpet cleaner for cleaning. Test it in an inconspicuous area first. Spray the carpet cleaner evenly over the mats, and let it sit according to package directions. Scrub the cleaner into the carpet.Use the garden hose to rinse the mats thoroughly. Press clean cloths onto the surface to absorb excess moisture, or use a shop vac. Hang the mats until they are completely dry.Step 3: Sprinkle With Baking SodaOnce the mats are fully dry, lay them on a flat surface and liberally sprinkle the carpet side of the mats with baking soda. Depending on how strong the odors are, let the baking soda sit for a few hours to overnight for very strong smells.Step 4: Vacuum The MatsUse a vacuum cleaner to remove the baking soda. Then replace them in the car.How To Remove StainsTo treat smelly stains, combine baking soda and water to make a spreadable paste. Spread it over any stains, and let it sit for a few minutes to break down stains. Rinse the area and wash or let it dry as directed above.Tips For Keeping Car Mats Clean LongerClean up spills right away. Moisture can lead to musty odors from mildew and mold.Sprinkle car mats with baking soda after routine vacuuming to keep odors away.If possible, don't get in the car with dirty shoes. Knock off as much dirt and mud as you can before you get in.During the rainy or snowy season or on beach trips or other messy outdoor adventures, consider switching to plastic all-weather liners to protect carpet mats, carpet, and upholstery.Protect fabric with Scotchgard or other similar products to repel stains, moisture, and mud.