Truck Bed Mat

Why use a bed mat

A bare pickup bed is slick, noisy and easy to scratch. A bed mat adds friction so cargo stays put, cushions impacts and helps protect the factory paint or liner from gouges. Mats also make a bed more comfortable to kneel in and quieter to load.

Main types of bed mats

• Rubber mats: thick, dense rubber with cleats underneath that grip the bed and let water drain. Several Dee-Zee heavyweight mats here are listed at roughly 3/8 inch thick.
• Polypropylene mats: a firm fiber surface that is cushioned and nonslip. BedRug mats are described as resistant to bleach, battery acid, oil and gas, and as not absorbing water.
• Impact mats: a thicker padded surface meant for heavier cargo and drops, with details such as a tailgate gap guard on some designs.
• Trim-to-fit mats: sold in a general size for you to cut to length, useful when a custom mold is not available.

How to choose

• Bed length and model year: custom-fit mats are molded for specific beds, so confirm your truck's year, make, model and short or long bed.
• Cutouts: check that the mat allows for wheel wells, tie-down cleats and any factory bed rail features.
• Existing liner: some mats are made for use with spray-in liners, others for bare beds, and some are not meant to be used over a drop-in plastic liner.
• Thickness and weight: thicker rubber resists abrasion but is heavy to move and may add height at the tailgate.
• Attachment: hook-and-loop fasteners, rubber cleats or simple friction hold different designs in place.

Installation and care

Most mats install without tools. Clean and dry the bed first, test fit the mat before attaching fasteners, and make sure it sits flat so debris cannot collect beneath. Rubber mats can be washed with soap and water and a stiff brush. Lift the mat occasionally to rinse dirt and moisture from under it, which helps prevent corrosion in the bed floor.

Cargo safety

A bed mat adds grip but does not replace tie-downs. Secure loads with rated straps or ratchets anchored to the bed's tie-down points. Rubber can also hold heat on a hot day, so check hot surfaces before kneeling or placing sensitive cargo.

Review the manufacturer's specifications and compare the products below.

Matching a mat to how you use the bed

Think about your typical cargo before choosing. Contractors hauling tools, lumber and block usually favor a thick rubber mat that absorbs abuse and resists slipping. Hunters and campers often like polypropylene mats because they clean easily and stay comfortable to kneel on. If you carry sharp or heavy items, an impact style mat with extra padding gives another layer between the cargo and the bed floor.

Remember that the mat sits on top of whatever else you use. If your truck has a tonneau cover or bed rail caps, check that the mat does not interfere with their closing or clamp points.

Cleaning habits affect how long a mat lasts. Sweep out gravel, sand and metal shavings regularly, because grit trapped under a mat can scratch the bed and wear the underside. Avoid harsh solvents that the manufacturer does not approve, and let the mat dry fully after washing so moisture does not sit against the bed floor. Inspect corners and edges for curling or fraying.