'Refreshing' a cutting mat
 

I have started on a project this afternoon, and changed my rotary cutting blade as it just doesn't seem to be cutting very well, despite not being very old. Now the new blade is not cutting well either, and so I wonder if it might be my (admittedly rather old, and has been used a lot for papercrafting) cutting mat that might be the problem?

I had a look on the internet, and found one suggestion that the mat's life could be extended by soaking it in tepid water with white vinegar, then scrubbing with a stiff bristled brush. The theory being that adding moisture to the mat would make it more flexible and therefore able to self-heal again.

I was wondering, has anybody here tried this method, and did it work please?

I soak my self healing mats in water overnight in the bathtub at least once a year. I think it extends the life as they feel like new when dry. A child's plastic pool will work great in the summer, just keep the mats out of the sun.

If you see lots of marks on your cutting mat that should be an indication.
Also, could it be you have tighten that screw too much? It should be snug
but not too tight. Are you sure you put it back together like it should?

I checked that the blade was rotating, so I know that's okay; but I think maybe it's time to treat myself to a new mat; DH and I just worked out exactly how old this one is, and it definitely doesn't owe me anything! It's having a bath in the meantime, but I think I shall be replacing it come payday.

BellaBoo, how do you keep the mat from curling in the bathtub? I don't think my tub is wide enough for the mat to lie flat. Does it matter if it's bent while it's bathing?

Just replaced my mat with a beba's and it is wonderful. I always soaked mine too but there comes a point where it needs to go! Treat yourself. It makes all the difference in the world.
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yes that is what I learned from Fons & Porter,use the vinegar and a soft brush (like a mushroom brush)soak it for at least an hour and be sure it is flat.Then rinse and brush and it will be good as new

before you throw it out, are you using the back?

I have the same question as Dunster, I don't have anything big enough for my mat (36x36) to lie flat and soak. How to accomplish this?

Just a thought but what if you put a wet towel on bathroom floor then your board then another wet towel on top, that way it would stay flat.