If you’re a pet owner and drive a Subaru Forester model from 2014 to 2020, chances are your furry companion rides along for the adventure. But between muddy paws, shedding fur, and occasional accidents, your vehicle’s interior can take a beating. The good news? With the right custom-fit mats, you can keep your Forester clean, fresh, and protected from all things dog- (or cat-) related.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the best car mats for pet owners with a Subaru Forester 2014–2020. From all-weather protection to full cargo coverage, we’ll break down the features that matter most. Whether your pet is a laid-back lap dog or a hyper hiker, we’ve got a solution for you.
Why Pet Owners Need Specialized Mats
Standard mats often aren’t cut out for the wear and tear pets cause. Dogs can track in dirt, sand, and leaves. They shed fur and dander that settles into carpet fibers. Some pets might have “oops” moments, especially on longer road trips. That’s why pet owners need mats with:
- Waterproof backing to prevent liquids from soaking into factory carpet
- Non-slip surfaces to keep pets stable while driving
- Raised edges to trap messes
- Full coverage including footwells, cargo area, and even seat backs
Let’s take a look at which mats meet these criteria and are perfect for your Subaru Forester from the 2014–2020 model years.
1. Custom Fit Floor Mats for Subaru Forester 2014–2020
The Custom Fit Luxury Car Mat Set from Car Mats Customs offers ideal front and rear floor protection for Subaru Forester models. Designed to contour perfectly to your vehicle’s interior, these mats are made from durable, waterproof materials that repel spills, dirt, and fur with ease.
They feature a textured anti-slip surface, which helps your pet stay balanced even during sudden stops or turns. Plus, their sleek aesthetic doesn’t sacrifice style for function—so your Forester still looks great while staying clean.
Top Benefits:
- Full front and back coverage
- Easy to clean—just remove and rinse
- Raised edges trap spills and dirt
- Scratch-resistant surface stands up to claws
2. Matching Trunk Mat – Full Cover for Pet Cargo
Many Subaru Forester owners fold the rear seats down to give their dogs room to move. But that exposed cargo area is a hotspot for scratches, fur, and accidents. The Matching Trunk Mat – Full Cover is a pet-friendly essential.
This mat doesn’t just line the floor—it wraps up the sides and rear seatbacks for total protection. Whether you’re heading to the vet or the mountains, this trunk liner keeps your vehicle clean no matter what your pet drags in.
Pro Tip: If your dog sheds a lot, you’ll love how easy it is to vacuum or shake this mat clean. No embedded fur or odors!
3. Base Trunk Mat for Occasional Pet Transport
If your pet only rides in the cargo area occasionally or you don’t need full side protection, the Base Trunk Mat is a cost-effective way to keep dirt and paw prints off the carpet. This mat fits the Subaru Forester 2014–2020 cargo area and features waterproof construction that resists spills and is easy to wipe down.
Bonus: It adds grip to the trunk surface, which helps prevent your pet’s crate or carrier from sliding around during transport.
4. Seat Covers for Pet Protection
While mats are crucial, don’t overlook the importance of seat protection. Pets that ride in the back seat can scratch upholstery, leave fur behind, or even puncture leather with their nails. The Custom Luxury Leather Seat Cover Set adds a stylish barrier that protects against dirt, claw marks, and drool.
These covers are tailor-fit to Subaru Forester seats and easy to install and clean—just wipe down with a damp cloth. Plus, they’re comfortable for humans and pets alike.
Great for:
- Daily commuters with dogs
- Long road trips with pets
- Pet transport professionals
5. Full Interior Protection Combo
For pet owners who want maximum protection and minimal cleaning effort, we recommend bundling floor mats, trunk mats, and seat covers. This all-in-one approach creates a fully pet-proofed interior from front to back, leaving no room for damage or dirt to take hold.
Explore our tailored combinations of floor mats, cargo liners, and seat covers made specifically for Subaru Forester 2014–2020 models.
Helpful Related Blog Posts
- Pet-Proofing Your Hyundai Tucson: Mats & Covers
- How to Clean Your Custom Car Mats Without Damaging Them
- Trunk Mat Buying Guide for Subaru Forester 2014–2020
What to Look for in Pet-Friendly Car Mats
When selecting mats for your Subaru Forester, it’s important to evaluate how well they handle real-world messes. Not all materials are created equal, and certain features make a big difference for pet owners. Here are the key elements to prioritize:
- Water Resistance: Mats should be fully waterproof to prevent accidents and spills from soaking into the carpet.
- Non-Slip Bottoms: Stability matters—both for your mat and your pet. Anti-slip backings keep everything securely in place.
- Raised Edges: Raised lips trap liquid and debris within the mat’s surface area.
- Durability: Look for materials that resist claw marks, bites, and frequent cleanings without cracking or wearing out.
- Easy Removal & Cleaning: Quick hose-down capability or a simple wipe with a cloth should be all it takes to refresh your mats.
Mats with these features will save time, money, and stress when it comes to pet-related messes in your Subaru Forester.
Material Showdown: What’s Best for Pet Messes?
1. TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer)
This is one of the best materials for pet owners. It’s durable, flexible, non-toxic, and completely waterproof. TPE mats resist staining and don’t hold odors—ideal for handling drool, urine, and muddy paw prints.
2. PVC Hybrid Mats
PVC mats with layered construction offer high-end durability with a soft-touch surface. They’re still waterproof and scratch-resistant but may offer a bit more grip underfoot for your pet. These are often found in custom-fit luxury sets like the Car Mats Customs Luxury Set.
3. Rubber Mats
Rubber mats are simple and functional. They’re easy to clean and usually heavy enough to stay in place. However, they can get hot in direct sun and might retain odors longer than TPE or PVC mats.
4. Carpeted Mats (Not Ideal)
Carpet mats are not recommended for pet owners. They trap fur and absorb liquids, making them hard to clean and prone to lingering smells.
Bottom Line: For the Subaru Forester 2014–2020, TPE or layered PVC mats offer the best balance of protection, cleanability, and pet safety.
Daily Cleaning Tips for Pet Owners
Even with the best mats, messes happen. The good news is that custom-fit pet-friendly mats are designed for fast and easy cleanups. Here’s how to keep your Subaru Forester clean without stress:
Quick Daily Clean:
- Remove loose fur with a lint roller or vacuum handheld attachment
- Shake the mats outside to dislodge sand or dirt
- Wipe the surface with a damp microfiber cloth
Weekly Deep Clean:
- Remove the mats from the vehicle
- Spray with a hose or use a damp sponge and mild detergent
- Let air dry before reinstalling
Keeping up with small cleanings makes big messes less overwhelming—especially after dog park trips, beach days, or muddy hikes.
Use Case Scenarios for Subaru Forester Pet Owners
Adventure-Loving Dog Owners
If your Forester is the go-to vehicle for trails and lakes, your dog is likely tracking in dirt and debris. Custom-fit mats and cargo liners with raised edges contain the mess and are easy to rinse clean after each outing.
Senior Pets
Older pets may have accidents or mobility issues. Waterproof mats and non-slip backing help keep your pet stable while protecting your interior. The Matching Trunk Mat is especially good for folded seats where pets lie down during transit.
Multi-Pet Families
Two dogs? A cat and a corgi? You’ll want maximum coverage. Combine front and rear floor mats, a base trunk mat, and seat covers for full-pet-proofing across every inch of your Subaru Forester.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which mats are best for dogs that shed a lot?
Mats with a smooth, non-textured surface are easiest to clean. TPE or PVC mats allow you to sweep, vacuum, or wipe up fur without it clinging to carpet fibers.
Can I use the same mats year-round?
Yes. Quality all-weather mats are designed for every season—from snowy paws in winter to wet swimsuits in summer. Their waterproof construction handles it all.
What if my dog has an accident in the car?
Accidents happen. Waterproof mats will keep urine or vomit from seeping through. Remove the mat, clean with a pet-safe cleaner, rinse, and reinstall.
Do these mats work with crates and carriers?
Yes. Mats like the Base Trunk Mat add grip and cushioning for crates and carriers, reducing shifting while driving.
Will these mats fit my 2014–2020 Subaru Forester exactly?
All mats linked in this guide are custom-made for Subaru Forester 2014–2020 models. They offer edge-to-edge coverage for a snug, secure fit.
Final Thoughts: Pet-Friendly Mats That Actually Work
Your Subaru Forester 2014–2020 was built for adventures—and if your pet is part of the ride, your mats should be built to handle the mess. Investing in high-quality, waterproof, custom-fit mats is one of the best things you can do for your vehicle’s longevity and your peace of mind as a pet parent.
Whether your dog is joining you for a weekend hike or just tagging along on errands, the right mat setup makes cleanup fast and stress-free. From full-coverage trunk liners to scratch-proof seat covers and easy-to-clean floor mats, Car Mats Customs offers a tailored solution for every pet-owning Forester driver.
Browse our top picks below to pet-proof your Subaru today:
Disclaimer: This blog post was written by Car Mats Customs to provide general information about compatible aftermarket car mats and interior accessories for the Subaru Forester 2014–2020. Car Mats Customs is an independent brand and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Subaru Corporation. Vehicle names and model years are used strictly for fitment and compatibility reference.