I have a handy ( tool) from Nancy's Notions called *A Mat Smoother* it is a small sanding disc type item with a handle to hold. I have been using it on my cutting mats for 10 years. Works great, especially handy if you cut any of those fabrics that tend to stick on your mat. In 10 years of pretty much daily use I have only replaced my large cutting mat once, and that was more because the lines were fading some (and there was a good sale) I wanted to, I didn't necessarily need to.