How to Remove and Clean the Rear Cargo Under-Floor Storage Trays in a Kia Sorento
That moment when you lift the cargo floor and find a science experiment of dried juice, mystery crumbs, and what might be a forgotten chicken nugget — we’ve all been there.
Here’s the thing about the Kia Sorento’s under-floor storage — it’s one of those brilliant features that’s amazing until you actually need to clean it. The hidden compartment is perfect for stashing emergency kits, muddy boots, or road trip snacks . But let’s be honest, it’s also a magnet for kid debris. The good news? Removing and cleaning these trays is surprisingly simple once you know the trick.
TL;DR
The under-floor cargo tray in your Kia Sorento can be removed by simply grasping the handle on the top of the cover and lifting it out . For deeper cleaning that requires removing the side trim panels, you’ll need to remove the seats and several bolts — a much more involved process . Most under-floor trays lift right out for cleaning. For stubborn odors from spills, a thorough cleaning with enzyme-based cleaners and allowing the area to air dry is more effective than kitty litter or baking soda .
Key Takeaways
- The main under-floor storage tray lifts right out using the built-in handle
- Tools and emergency equipment are stored beneath the luggage board
- Deep cleaning behind side panels may require seat removal
- Use enzyme-based cleaners for odors rather than just masking them
- Prevent future messes with a custom-fit cargo mat
Understanding Your Sorento’s Cargo Storage System
Your Kia Sorento has several hidden storage areas in the cargo section . The main one is the luggage board — a hard cover that sits over the tools and storage area. There’s also the luggage tray (perfect for first aid kits and warning triangles) and luggage side trays for smaller items .
Understanding what’s underneath helps you know what you’re dealing with:
Storage Compartments
| Location | What You’ll Find |
|---|---|
| Luggage Board (main floor) | Tools, jack, battery (in some models) |
| Luggage Tray (center) | Larger storage cubby |
| Luggage Side Trays | Small item storage |
| Behind Side Panels | Wiring, access to bolts |
How to Remove the Main Under-Floor Storage Tray
What You Need
- Nothing! No tools required for the main tray
- Maybe a vacuum for the cleaning part
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 — Open your rear hatch.
Step 2 — Locate the handle on the top of the luggage board or cargo cover .
Step 3 — Grasp the handle firmly and lift it upward .
Step 4 — In some models, you may need to fold the rear part of the luggage board forward first .
Step 5 — The entire tray section lifts right out .
This is actually the simple part. As one Sorento owner noted, “That was actually pretty simple to get the cargo tray out. I had no idea it would be that easy” .
That’s it for the main tray. You now have full access to the storage compartment underneath.
Cleaning the Removed Tray
For Regular Dirt and Crumbs
- Remove the tray from the vehicle
- Shake out loose debris
- Vacuum thoroughly
- Wipe down with a damp cloth and mild soap
- Allow to dry completely before reinstalling
For Spills and Stains
If you’ve had a spill in the cargo area, simply wiping it out might not be enough. One Sorento owner reported, “I spilled gas in my 2011 Kia Sorento EX, apparently it ran into the storage area at the very rear of the vehicle, I have moved the lid out of the way but the carpet is soaked inside” .
For tough odors:
- Don’t rely on kitty litter or baking soda alone — they only mask the problem
- Use enzyme-based odor removers that actually break down the source of the smell
- If possible, remove the soiled carpet and wash it properly
- Leave the hatch open on a sunny day to let everything dry thoroughly
“Don’t expect much from kitty litter or baking soda. There are some enzyme odor removers that can work, but removing the soiled materials and either cleaning them or replacing them is probably necessary.”
Deep Cleaning Behind the Side Panels
Sometimes crumbs and debris find their way behind the side cargo panels. If you’re dealing with a rodent infestation or just can’t figure out where that smell is coming from, you might need to go deeper.
What’s Involved
The side trim panels are more complex to remove. According to owners who have done this on older Sorento models, the process involves :
- Removing the second row seat assembly
- Removing the third row seat assembly
- Removing seat belt lower anchors
- Removing the partition trim
- Removing the rear transverse trim
- Loosening mounting screws to remove luggage side trim
“I’ve tried to remove the trim, starting at the very back (called the transverse trim, I think), but it won’t come off.”
Bottom line: This is a much bigger job. If you just need to clean under the main storage tray, stick to the simple lift-out method.
Keeping Your Cargo Area Clean Going Forward
Cargo Mats: Your First Line of Defense
A quality cargo liner protects the under-floor area from spills and messes before they happen.
| Product Type | Best For | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| WeatherTech Cargo Liner | Full coverage protection | Raised lip contains spills, custom-fit |
| Kia OEM Carpeted Mat | Factory look | Easily removable, 5-passenger models |
| FIILINES Premium TPE Mat | All-weather use | Odorless, stain-resistant, waterproof |
Pro Tips
- Use the side trays for small items instead of leaving them loose in the main area
- Grocery hooks (if equipped) keep bags from tipping over
- Clean spills immediately — liquids that seep into the under-floor area are much harder to address
- Consider a cargo organizer to keep things from rolling around
FAQ
How do I access the under-floor storage in my Kia Sorento?
Grasp the handle on top of the luggage board or cargo cover and lift it upward. It’s that simple .
Can I remove the entire under-floor tray for cleaning?
Yes, the main tray section lifts right out after opening the luggage board .
What’s stored underneath the luggage board?
The tools, jack, and battery (in some models) are located beneath the luggage board for easy access .
How do I clean the cargo area after a spill?
Remove any carpets or trays if possible. Use enzyme-based cleaners for odors, and allow everything to dry thoroughly with the hatch open .
Will kitty litter remove gasoline smells from the cargo area?
Not effectively. Kitty litter and baking soda only absorb some odors — enzyme-based cleaners are much more effective for removing the source of the smell .
How do I remove the side cargo panels for deeper cleaning?
It’s a complex job that may require removing seats and multiple trim pieces. Consider a professional detailer for this level of cleaning .
Final Thoughts
The Sorento’s under-floor storage is genuinely useful — it’s where you stash the emergency kit, the muddy hiking boots, or that blanket for impromptu picnics. And when it gets dirty, the main tray comes out so easily you’ll wonder why you didn’t clean it sooner.
For the deeper crevices behind the side panels, the job gets more involved. But for the average weekly clean-up, the simple lift-out method is all you’ll ever need.
What’s the most interesting thing you’ve found lurking under your Sorento’s cargo floor? Drop your stories in the comments below.
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