Fish smell is one of the biggest frustrations when cleaning your own catch —
especially if it lingers long after you’ve packed everything away.
The good news? Fish smell removal is easy when you use the right techniques
and store your filleting mat properly.
Why Filleting Mats Hold Fish Smell
Fish odour sticks when:
● Oils aren’t fully washed away
● The mat is stored while damp
● Residue sits too long before cleaning
Lower-quality mats absorb odours more easily, which is why investing in a
non-porous mat like the FILLET MATe non-slip filleting mat makes a big difference.
Best Ways to Remove Fish Smell from a Filleting Mat
Baking Soda (Best All-Round Option)
Sprinkle baking soda over the mat, add warm water, and let it sit for 10–15
minutes. Rinse thoroughly.
Baking soda neutralises odours rather than masking them — ideal for ongoing
fish smell removal.
White Vinegar Rinse (Occasional Use)
A light vinegar rinse helps break down stubborn fish oils. Use sparingly and
always rinse well afterwards.
Sunlight & Fresh Air
Letting your mat dry in indirect sunlight helps eliminate lingering smells naturally.
How to Prevent Filleting Mat Smell in the First Place
● Rinse immediately after use
● Clean the same day you fillet
● Dry completely before storage
● Store flat or hanging, not sealed damp
These small habits prevent filleting mat smell from ever becoming a problem.
If your filleting mat smells, it’s not ruined - it just needs the right care. With
proper cleaning and drying, a quality mat should stay fresh for years.
Upgrade to an odour-resistant FILLET MATe non-slip filleting mat
See How to Clean your FILLET MATe Properly for daily care tips