Quick Answer

Clean your Casting Shadows: Molten Rock Expansion Play Mat Set with a damp cloth and mild soap, air-dry it flat, and roll it loosely for storage to prevent creases and curling.

Why dedicated care matters for expansion play mats

The Casting Shadows: Molten Rock Expansion Play Mat Set includes two mats featuring artwork for Dread the Terrashell, Dread the Ironclad, Ashe Firecraft, and Ashe the Inferno. These mats have space to organize your Player Board, Spells, Counterspells, Resource cards, and Companion. Keeping the printed surface free of dust, spills, and creases ensures the art stays readable and the mat lies flat during play.

Unlike generic cloth mats, these are printed with specific game zones. Aggressive scrubbing or harsh chemicals can fade the ink or damage the rubber backing. A gentle routine preserves both the art and the grip.

Step-by-Step Play Mat Care Routine

  1. 1. Spot clean spills immediately: Blot liquid spills with a dry microfiber cloth. For sticky residue, dampen the cloth with water and a drop of mild dish soap, then gently dab the spot. Avoid rubbing, which can spread the stain or lift the ink. Common mistake: Scrubbing hard or using bleach wipes can permanently fade the printed hex locations.
  2. 2. Hand wash only when needed: Fill a basin with cool water and a small amount of mild detergent. Submerge the mat and gently agitate it with your hands. Focus on dirty areas with a soft sponge. Rinse thoroughly until no soap remains. Never machine wash or wring the mat. Checkpoint: If the mat has a rubber backing, avoid soaking it for more than 5 minutes to prevent the backing from peeling.
  3. 3. Air-dry flat away from heat: Lay the mat on a clean, flat surface (like a drying rack or towel) in a room-temperature area out of direct sunlight. Do not hang it, as the weight of wet fabric can stretch the mat. Do not use a hair dryer, radiator, or dryer. Common mistake: Hanging the mat while wet can cause permanent warping or uneven drying that leads to curling edges.
  4. 4. Roll, don't fold, for storage: Once fully dry, roll the mat loosely with the printed side facing outward. Secure it with a fabric band or the original tube if you have it. Store upright in a cool, dry place away from humidity and direct sunlight. Checkpoint: Folding the mat creates sharp creases that may never flatten out, especially along the card zone lines.

Product Spotlight

  • Casting Shadows: Molten Rock Expansion Play Mat Set: These beautifully illustrated play mats feature artwork that corresponds to the Molten Rock Expansion characters and Hex locations. The detailed artwork means you want a cleaning method that won't fade or scratch the printed zones, especially around the card and companion spaces.

    Casting Shadows: Molten Rock Expansion Play Mat Set

    Casting Shadows: Molten Rock Expansion Play Mat Set