How to Clean a Yoga Mat

If you're a yoga enthusiast, you know the importance of having a clean mat. Not only is it necessary for your safety and well-being, but also for the people around you. A dirty yoga mat can be a breeding ground for bacteria and fungus, and it's not pleasant to practice on or near one.

Key Takeaways

• Frequency: Regular cleaning is important to maintain hygiene and prevent bacteria buildup.
• Mild Solutions: Use mild soap and water or a yoga mat-specific cleaner.
• Deep Cleaning: For deep cleaning, submerge in warm water with soap and scrub gently.
• Avoid Chemicals: Harsh chemicals can damage the mat's material.
• Drying: Air-dry your mat by laying it flat or hanging it.
• Maintenance: Cleaning regularly keeps your mat fresh and extends its lifespan.

This blog post will teach you how to clean your yoga mat safely and effectively. We'll cover everything from why you should clean it to the best way to go about it. So whether you're just starting or have been practicing for years, read on for all the details

Why Is It Important to Have a Clean Yoga Mat?

A yoga mat is an essential piece of equipment for practicing yoga. It provides a comfortable and stable surface to stand, sit, or lie down on. It also absorbs sweat and helps grip the floor, preventing you from slipping during your practice.

But a yoga mat can also be a breeding ground for bacteria and fungus if it's not cleaned regularly, especially if you do hot yoga. This is because it's made of porous materials that absorb sweat and dirt quickly. By cleaning the surface frequently, you prevent the build-up of bacteria and fungi, thus eliminating the risk of infection.

In addition, a dirty yoga mat can be unpleasant to practice on. It can cause skin irritation and make it difficult to concentrate on your practice. For these reasons, it's essential to clean your yoga mat regularly.

How Often Should You Clean Your Yoga Mat?

Ideally, you should clean your yoga mat after every use. However, we understand that this isn't always possible or practical. If you can't clean it after each session, aim to do so at least once a week.

You can also place your yoga mat in the sun for a few hours each month as it helps to kill any bacteria or fungus present.

What Tools Do I Need?

To clean your yoga mat, you'll need the following items:

• Spray bottles
• Clean water
• Vinegar
• A cloth or sponge

You're ready to clean your yoga mat with these supplies in hand! Just follow the instructions below, and you'll have a clean, bacteria-free surface to practice on.

What's the Best Way to clean it?

There are several ways to clean a yoga mat, but some methods are better than others. The best way to clean a yoga mat is with a homemade solution containing a mixture of water and vinegar. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant that will kill germs and fungus. It's also gentle enough that it won't damage your yoga mat. You want to make sure you disinfect yoga mats frequently.

Mix equal parts of water and vinegar in a spray bottle to make this cleaner. This could be either warm water or cool water. We do recommend using warm water as it helps kill germs.

Spray down your entire yoga mat with the mixture. Then start at the top using a sponge or a cloth, and work your way down in a circular motion, working that dirt out. If one side is dirtier than the other, start on the dirty side first and work your way to the clean side. Continue doing this until you have cleaned the entire mat.

When you are done, wipe it down with a cloth or sponge. You can also use this cleaner to spot-clean your yoga mat between uses.

Use dish soap

Like most people, you probably have dish soap in your home. And did you know that you can use this standard household product to clean your yoga mat?

Dish soap is a natural disinfectant and will kill bacteria and fungus. It's also gentle enough that it won't damage your yoga mat.

To use dish soap to clean your yoga mat, simply add a few drops of it to a spray bottle filled with water.

It is essential not to use too much soap, making it more challenging to dry. Then, spray your yoga mat with the mixture and wipe it down with a sponge. You can also use this cleaner to spot-clean your yoga mat between uses. Once done, rinse it down and use a clean towel or soft cloth to whip down any excess water or soap residue. This is important to ensure there is no slippery film left from the soap, which could cause an accident.

Can I Put my Yoga Mat in the washing machine?

Putting your yoga mat in the washing machine is not recommended. Most mats consist of delicate materials that the washing process can damage. Additionally, the detergent and water used in a washing machine can damage your mat.

If you need to deep-clean yoga mats, it's best to do so by hand using the method described above.

Quick Solution, Baby Wipe

If you are in a rush and don't have the time to mix up your cleaning solution or time to air dry it, then a baby wipe could be your answer. Once your session in the yoga studio is over, with the mat flat on the floor, wipe it down with the baby wipe, and then use a dry yoga towel to remove any residue.

How often should you do a deep cleaning?

Ideally, you should clean your yoga mat after every use. However, we understand that this isn't always possible or practical, especially in yoga studios. If you can't clean it after each session, aim to do so at least once a week. Make cleaning your yoga mat part of your yoga practice.

You can also place your yoga mat in direct sunlight for a few hours each month. This has naturally antibacterial properties and will help kill any bacteria or fungus that may be present on the mat.

If you need to deep-clean your yoga mat, it's best to do so by hand using the method described above. With these tips, you'll be able to keep your yoga mat clean and safe for years to come! So get out there and enjoy your practice!

How do I dry and store my yoga mat?

Once you've cleaned your yoga mat, it must be dry before storing it. The best way to do this is to hang it up in the sun or air dry it. You can also use yoga towels or a cloth to pat it dry.

Once your yoga mat is dry, you can roll it up and store it in a cool, dark place. With these tips, you'll be able to keep your yoga mat clean and safe for years to come!  

Shopping List For Your Cleaning Solution

Next time you head to the store, bring this quick shopping list to create your DIY cleaning solution, using the recipe below:

• 16 oz. Spray bottle
• Distilled white vinegar
• Essential oils — choose from:
• Tea tree oil
• Lavender
• Lemon
• Peppermint                                                        

Travel light, live light, spread the light, be the light.

― Yogi Bhajan

Conclusion

You can clean your own yoga mat quickly and effectively by following these simple tips!

With proper care, your mat will last for years, and you will have saved some money by doing this.

References

How to Clean a Yoga Mat - Consumer Reports 

How to Clean Your Yoga Mat 

How to Clean Your Yoga Mat | REI Expert Advice.

Disclaimer

The contents of this article are provided for informational purposes only and are not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is always recommended to consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any health-related changes or if you have any questions or concerns about your health. Anahana is not liable for any errors, omissions, or consequences that may occur from using the information provided.