Don't forget your pets!
If you’re a pet owner who loves traveling with your furry friends, keeping your car clean and ensuring their safety can be challenging. Whether you’re driving to the park or heading to the mountains, having the right accessories, like cargo mats, car seat covers, side window deflectors, and sunshades, can make all the difference.
In this article, we’ll explore the 7 key points every pet owner should consider when choosing the best cargo mats for cars and SUVs and how to keep your vehicle pet-friendly, comfortable, and safe.
1. Why Cargo Mats Are Essential for Pet Owners
Cargo mats are a must-have accessory for pet owners who want to protect their vehicles from dirt, fur, and accidental spills. Here are the top benefits of investing in a high-quality cargo mat like those offered by WeatherTech:
• Protects Against Spills and Stains: Waterproof materials prevent liquid damage, from muddy paws to accidental pet messes.
• Scratch and Tear Resistant: Durable construction withstands sharp claws and heavy use.
• Custom Fit: WeatherTech and other cargo mats are laser-measured for a snug fit in your specific car or SUV, ensuring maximum coverage.
• Easy to Clean: Simply wipe, rinse, or use a mild soap for thorough cleaning.
Having a cargo mat not only extends your vehicle’s life but also keeps it resale-ready.
2. Key Features to Look for in a Pet-Friendly Cargo Mat
When choosing a cargo mat, look for these essential features:
• Non-Slip Surface: Prevents your pet from sliding around during transit. So look underneath to see if there are fasteners for your vehicle or the raised studs that hold into your carpet.
• Raised Edges: Contains spills, mud, and dirt.
• Custom Fit: Ensure the mat is designed for your specific vehicle model for complete coverage, but ensure they are easy to remove and clean if necessary.
• Pet-Safe Materials: Opt for non-toxic, odour-free materials that are safe for your furry friends, this is important.
• Bumper-Protector: Look for optional bumper protectors, this is an extension to your cargo mat, that clips on the ends to protect the bumper area of your mat from pet scratches on your body work.
• Split Back Cargo Mats: As an option, some of the more advanced cargo mats now have split backs, meaning that the cargo mat extends onto the back of the rear car seat. This adds additional protection when the seats are in place or folded down. Particularly useful with 3 seat row configurations seen in the Land Rover Defender L663 or Jeep Cherokee, BMW X5, X7 and Volvo XC90.
WeatherTech’s cargo mats check all these boxes, making them an ideal choice for pet owners.
3. Additional Accessories to Enhance Pet Safety and Comfort
Beyond cargo mats, several accessories can enhance your pet’s safety and comfort in the car:
• Car Seat Covers: Protect your seats from fur, scratches, and accidents. WeatherTech and TigerTouch seat protectors are machine washable and fit snugly for ultimate protection.
• Side Window Deflectors: These allow fresh air to flow into your car, even during rain, while preventing wind noise and water entry.
• Sunshades: Keep your car cool, protecting your pets from heat-related stress during hot weather. WeatherTech sunshades are one of the only type that are custom-fit for maximum UV and heat protection.
• Water Carriers: Portable, spill-proof water containers can keep your pets hydrated on long trips.
4. How to Install a Cargo Mat for Maximum Effectiveness
Installing a cargo mat is straightforward, but here are some tips for optimal placement:
1. Clean the Surface: Vacuum and wipe down the cargo area to remove debris and dust.
2. Unroll the Mat: Lay the cargo mat flat and if you can unroll the mat 24 hours before you need it, lay it flat so that it can regain its shape (add some weights into the corner, use books you never read), if its been delivery rolled. Then align it with the edges of your vehicle’s trunk or cargo area, and ensure the sides are pushed in tight with your fingers.
3. Secure in Place: Some mats have fasteners or grips to prevent shifting. Make sure these are properly positioned.
WeatherTech mats are designed for hassle-free installation, with no cutting or adjustments needed.
5. How to Clean and Maintain Your Cargo Mat
Cleaning your cargo mat regularly ensures it stays functional and looks good as new:
• Vacuum First: Remove loose dirt, fur, and debris.
• Spot Clean: Use a mild soap or pet-safe cleaner to remove stubborn stains. We would recommend the use of the WeatherTech TechCare kit for cleaning and finishing.
• Hose Down: For heavy-duty cleaning, remove the mat and rinse it with water.
• Dry Thoroughly: Always let the mat dry completely, then apply the finisher, rub this into the material until it becomes clear and shinny before placing it back in your car.
WeatherTech mats are engineered to resist stains and odours, making maintenance a breeze. Not only that, they will last much longer if you clean them with the right liquids.
6. Dog Safety Tips While Traveling
Your pet’s safety should always be a priority during car rides. Here are some tips to ensure a safe journey:
• Use a Harness or Crate: Secure your pet with a crash-tested harness or place them in a travel crate to prevent distractions.
• Avoid Leaving Pets in the Car: Even with sunshades, never leave your pet unattended in a parked car.
• Keep the Car Ventilated: Use side window deflectors for proper airflow, especially during long drives.
• Bring Essentials: Pack water, food, and a leash to ensure your pet’s comfort and well-being.
7. Why WeatherTech Accessories Are the Best Choice for Pet Owners
WeatherTech’s range of automotive accessories is designed with durability, convenience, and safety in mind, making them perfect for pet owners. Here’s why:
• All-Weather Durability: WeatherTech mats, sunshades, and deflectors are built to withstand extreme conditions.
• Custom Fit: Each product is tailored to your vehicle’s make and model for a seamless look and feel.
• Easy Maintenance: WeatherTech products are easy to clean, saving you time and effort.
By investing in WeatherTech accessories, you’re not only protecting your car but also ensuring your pet’s safety and comfort.
Conclusion
Traveling with pets doesn’t have to be a hassle. With the right accessories—like durable cargo mats, car seat covers, side window deflectors, and sunshades—you can keep your car clean, your pets safe, and your journeys stress-free.
WeatherTech offers premium solutions for every pet owner’s needs. Whether it’s a cargo mat to protect your trunk, a sunshade to keep your car cool, or a seat cover to guard against fur and stains, you can trust WeatherTech to deliver quality and performance.
So for all year round protection, check out the range of WeatherTech products and read our insights to getting the best out of your Spring and Summer activities.
So, when you go to the mountains this weekend with family, friends and pets, combine your Thule transport systems, with additional WeatherTech protection to make sure you have an easy and rewarding weekend.
Upgrade your car today with WeatherTech accessories and enjoy worry-free adventures with your furry companions!
WeatherTech is committed to dog welfare, so check out our financial and charitable support for our furry friends at “pets make a difference.”