How to Care for a Linoleum and Merino Wool Desk Mat (Both Sides)

Hi friends, Maisy here.

Our first desk mats took over the living room while we were making them, so we've spent quite a lot of time working with these two materials. Once your mat arrives, though, the question is usually much simpler: how do you keep it clean?

The linoleum and merino wool sides need slightly different care. I've put the everyday advice first so you can find it quickly, with a little more detail below.

For everyday cleaning

• Wipe the linoleum with a soft, slightly damp cloth, then dry it.
• Use a lint roller or soft clothes brush on the wool to lift dust and crumbs.
• Don't soak the mat, use harsh cleaners or put it in the washing machine.

If you've just unpacked yours, our desk mat welcome page has a short video on unboxing and laying it out.

Looking after the linoleum

A slightly damp cloth is usually enough. If it needs more cleaning, add a drop of mild soap to the water, wipe away the soap afterward and dry the surface. You don't want to leave cleaner sitting on it.

Wipe up spills as soon as you can. Please avoid bleach, acetone, glass cleaner and alcohol wipes, along with scouring pads, steel wool and abrasive powders. Don't put a hot pan or kettle directly on the mat; a coaster is a good habit for your mug, too.

Looking after the merino wool

For dust and crumbs, I keep it simple with a lint roller or soft brush. You may notice a little shedding at first, which can happen with real wool.

If you spill something, blot it straight away with a dry cloth or paper towel. Press and lift rather than rubbing it into the wool. Let any damp area air dry flat, and avoid soaking the mat.

If a mark remains, write to us before trying a cleaner. That way we can help with the particular spill rather than having you guess at a detergent or mixture.

Please don't scrub the wool or use hot water, a washing machine or a dryer. Heat and friction can change its texture.

Using both sides

I like the smooth linoleum for writing and sketching, and the wool when I want a softer surface. You don't have to save either side for a particular part of the day. Turn it over whenever the other texture suits you better.

The surface-care advice is the same for Pro and Standard mats. The Pro is rigid and stays flat, with the layer inside that our charger stand, puck and Fa tray snap onto. The Standard is flexible and can roll up for moving.

We cut and finish each mat here in the studio, and I hope yours gets plenty of use. If you're unsure how to deal with a mark, please ask us rather than reaching for something strong. You can contact us here, or see the desk mat here if you're still choosing one.

Maisy

From our family, to yours.