Yoga mats see a lot of action – from our sweaty hands and feet during poses to the floor beneath them. Many of us know that funky smell or the sticky feeling that shows up on our mats after a few good workouts. While a quick cleaning after each session helps, learning the right way to deep clean our yoga mats will help them last longer and stay germ-free.
According to Dr. Philip Tierno, a microbiologist at New York University School of Medicine, "A yoga mat is a perfect incubator for many of our skin bacteria to thrive, particularly in a humid environment like a hot yoga class."
Keep Mats Fresh Daily
Keeping your yoga mat fresh doesn't have to be complicated – three simple daily habits will make all the difference.
After each practice, we recommend wiping down your yoga mat with a microfiber cloth to remove sweat and oils.
Next, lightly mist it with a solution of equal parts water and vinegar, adding a few drops of tea tree oil for extra freshness.
Finally, let it air dry completely.
##
Let's explore the essential do's and don'ts of yoga mat cleaning to keep your practice space hygienic and well-maintained.
We'll cover the correct cleaning methods, including the proper use of vinegar solutions and essential oils, while highlighting common mistakes to avoid like using harsh chemicals or excessive water.
From daily maintenance to deep cleaning techniques, we'll walk through everything you need to know about extending your mat's lifespan and maintaining a safe, clean surface for your practice.
Things to Do When Cleaning a Yoga Mat
Properly cleaning your yoga mat is essential for maintaining its durability, grip, and hygiene while preventing the buildup of bacteria and unpleasant odors.
A thorough cleaning routine not only extends the life of your mat but also guarantees a safer and more pleasant practice environment.
- Check manufacturer guidelines – Review specific cleaning instructions for your mat type to avoid damaging the material
- Prepare cleaning solution – Mix equal parts water and white vinegar, adding tea tree oil if desired
- Wipe down surface – Use a soft cloth with the cleaning solution to remove dirt and sweat
- Deep clean when needed – Soak mat in warm water with vinegar and essential oils for 10-15 minutes
- Hand wash gently – Use circular motions with a soft cloth to clean both sides thoroughly
- Rinse completely – Remove all cleaning solution residue to maintain proper grip
- Air dry properly – Place mat in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight for 1-2 hours or overnight
- Confirm complete drying – Check that no moisture remains before rolling or storing the mat
Things to Avoid When Cleaning a Yoga Mat
Keeping your yoga mat clean is essential for maintaining its durability and ensuring a hygienic practice surface, but using improper cleaning methods can damage or destroy your mat.
While regular cleaning is important, being mindful of what not to do is equally vital to preserve your mat's quality and extend its lifespan.
Harsh Chemical Disinfectants – These can break down the mat material and compromise its structural integrity.
Extended Soaking – Prolonged exposure to water leads to material breakdown and encourages mold growth.
Abrasive Cleaning Tools – Rough scrubbers and brushes can scratch and permanently damage the mat's surface.
Essential Oil Solutions – Unless specifically approved by the manufacturer, these oils may react negatively with mat materials.
Direct Sunlight Exposure – UV rays and heat can cause warping, fading, and deterioration of the mat during drying.
Steps
Keeping your yoga mat clean is essential for maintaining hygiene and extending its durability. A proper cleaning routine not only removes sweat, dirt, and bacteria but also helps preserve the mat's grip and texture.
While daily maintenance can be as simple as a quick wipe-down, periodic deep cleaning guarantees your mat remains a safe and pleasant surface for your practice.
Step 1: Create a cleaning solution by mixing equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle (1:1 to 1:4 ratio), adding a few drops of tea tree oil if desired.
Step 2: Spray the mat lightly with the solution, being careful not to oversaturate.
Step 3: Wipe both sides thoroughly with a soft cloth.
Step 4: For deep cleaning, submerge the mat in warm water with vinegar and essential oils for 10-15 minutes.
Step 5: Hand wash the soaked mat gently with a soft cloth.
Step 6: Rinse the mat completely to remove any cleaning solution.
Step 7: Hang the mat to air dry in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.
Step 8: Allow 1-2 hours for complete drying before rolling up or using.
Step 9: Maintain cleanliness with quick wipe-downs after every few uses.
Step 10: Perform spot cleaning monthly to address specific areas of concern.
Final Thoughts
A clean yoga mat serves as the foundation for a healthy and enjoyable practice.
By following proper cleaning routines and letting our mats air dry completely, we'll extend their life while maintaining a hygienic surface for our sessions.
Remember to always check manufacturer guidelines before using cleaning solutions, and make cleaning our mats a regular part of our yoga routine.
##
Maintaining a clean yoga mat is essential for both your health and the longevity of your equipment. A regular cleaning routine, whether it's quick wipes after sessions or monthly deep cleans, guarantees you're practicing on a hygienic surface while protecting your investment.
By following proper cleaning methods and respecting your mat's specific material requirements, you'll create a safer, more enjoyable practice environment.
Take charge of your mat's maintenance today – your body and practice will thank you. Start with a simple cleaning routine, and adjust it based on your usage frequency and environment.
