When it comes to protecting the carpet in your vehicle, there are two things you can use:

• Floor mats
• Floor liners

The main difference between these items is their price and their effectiveness. Wirecutter explains that floor mats are basically pieces of rubber, carpet, or a combination of the two that are less expensive than liners but also offer less protection. With floor liners, you'll get a custom shape that will easily fit your vehicle. Additionally, they provide lips or walls around the edges that help trap debris and liquid from spills.

Differences Between Floor Mats and Floor Liners

You'll want to pay attention to the following features when deciding between floor mats and floor liners:

• Rims and ridges
• The mat's underside
• Thickness

Choose a product that has high edges around the rim that are sure to contain more debris and liquid from spills. Some floor mats have grooves and ridges that force liquid away from the driver's feet. The last thing you want to do is buy a mat that slips and slides around, restricting the pedals while you're driving. This is why it's important to pay attention to the bottom of the floor mats or liners you want to buy. Ideally, there will have some sort of hook that can be attached to the floor of your vehicle to hold the mats in place.

It might not seem like a determining factor in your floor mat selection, but thickness plays a role in your floor covering's efficacy. The thicker the floor mat, the more liquid it can absorb, making it more challenging to clean. However, it also provides more cushioning for your feet. When looking at a plastic or rubber mat, pay attention to the grooves — you want them deep enough to keep spills from getting into your carpet.