There are a lot of things Tacoma owners must consider when it comes to protecting their ride. Getting mud on the carpeting can ruin the look of a pristine interior. Thankfully, there are plenty of options when it comes to protecting the carpet in your Tacoma. Knowing the difference between mats and liners will help you determine which will work best.
What is the Difference Between Floor Mats and Liners?
As a Tacoma owner, you need to know the difference between floor mats and liners. Because many people mistakenly use the two types of floor protection terms interchangeably, many do not realize there is an actual difference.
One of the key differences between the two is the construction. When it comes to tacoma floor mats, the bottoms are completely flat so they lie flush against the carpeting. Floor liners are made specifically for a vehicle and the bottoms are molded so they perfectly line the floor and do not slide around.
Keep reading to learn more about the key benefits and differences so you can make sure your Tacoma’s interior is protected, even when your boots are too muddy after a day of fun on the trails. You have invested a lot into your ride, and this is an area you do not want to compromise on.
Features and Benefits of Floor Mats
There are many benefits to protecting your investment with floor mats and a tacoma tonneau cover (read, “How do I choose a tonneau cover?” if you have any questions). You want your ride to keep looking beautiful for as long as possible.
A floor mat is one of the most versatile sources of protection for your interior. These mats are typically universal so they can be used in all types of vehicles, including your Tacoma.
The best type of floor mat is one that contains deep molded ridges. These ridges can hold a full cup of coffee or a soda spill and they will trap all the gravel that collects in your shoe bottoms.
Mats are typically softer than liners and can be used to easily protect your floorboards, even if you do not purchase one specifically made for your Tacoma.
Benefits of Floor Mats
- Can contain spills so your carpet is not stained
- Trap gravel and dirt so they do not damage your interior floor carpeting
- Soft and flexible
- Offer a mostly universal fit
- Are affordable
- Are durable
Features and Benefits of Floor Liners
One of the biggest differences between floor mats and floor liners, is liners offer a deeper level of protection. When you look at an installed floor liner, you will see the sides are much deeper and come up to protect a portion of the sidewalls of your carpeting. This is important because it will help to ensure your carpeting stays looking beautiful just like your tacoma wheel walls.
These liners are really tough and can handle all types of messes, including snow, mud, and even car oil. With these durable liners in place, you will be able to rest assured stains and matting do not occur to the carpeting in the interior of your Tacoma.
Benefits of Floor Liners
- Extremely durable and will likely last longer than floor mats
- Made to further protect your carpeting
- Can stand up to a lot of abuse
- Protect against side damage
- Can hold spills
- Easy to clean
Final Verdict
Most Tacoma owners are going to find liners offer a little more protection than mats, depending on the type purchased. You do everything you can to keep your ride looking sharp, so why not invest in floor protection? Also, if you don’t know, find out what size tires can I put on my 4 Runner? now.
The choice boils down to what you use your Tacoma for. Are you mudding a lot? Do you have a farm? If you often have dirty boots or shoes, you are going to want to make sure you have the greatest level of protection. Tacoma floor liners will offer extended protection inferior car mats simply cannot.
Whenever choosing a floor mat or liner for your Tacoma, make sure to take your time. Careful research will help you find the perfect protection for your carpeting so it stays clean and looking nice.
Check out your options today and read reviews so you can be sure to make the right choice. Do not rush the process so you can make the best choice.
