How Do I Take The Curl Out Of A Plastic Mat?

Although there are many different types of plastic mats, from exercise mats to floor protectors, they likely come packaged or are stored in the same way: rolled up tight. That can be problematic, because the edges then want to stay curled up instead of laying flat. Gravity will get the mat to behave, though.

Unroll the mat, as flat as you can get it. Then, flip it over and reroll the mat. Creating this opposing new curl shape will in effect straighten the curled plastic. Keep it rolled up (longer for thicker/less for thinner plastic) with a rubber band and check it every so often until the previously upturned (curled) corners are laying flat as desired.

If a reroll doesn't work, or it's too cumbersome to roll backwards, roll out the mat and flip it over so the curled edges are facing up. Weight down the edges with objects such as heavy books. Leave weights in place until the mat lays flat without resistance.

Both these strategies are also effective in taking the curl out of the edges of a newly purchased carpet, scrolled paper and other items.