Abstract: A cleaning and drying machine is provided for mats or the like having a stiff backing and a fibrous nap. An entry station which receives the mats upside down includes a beater roll positioned above the pass line for engaging the backside of the mat. A washing station receives the mats and includes two wet wash brushes, preferably operating in counterrotating directions. A rinse station then receives the mats and includes rinse sprays and a wringer roll assembly. A duct transports the mat to a drying station which is normally positioned below the rinse station and includes at least one roll assembly comprising a floating upper heated roll for engaging the nap and a lower, nonheated, preferably cooled roll for engaging the stiff backing. A final air blast removes the remaining moisture as the mat is removed from the machine by a belt conveyor.