How to Clean Yoga Mat?

Yoga mats soak up a lot – dirt, sweat, skin cells, and oils. With frequent use, mats can become smelly, slippery health hazards if not cleaned regularly. Proper yoga mat hygiene requires frequent washing, periodic deep cleaning, and simple preventative habits. Here are tips about how to clean yoga mat and keep your trusted yoga mat fresh, sanitary, and grippy.

You may also want to know： How to Start a Yoga Practice

Cleaning Yoga Mat Basics

• Clean yoga mat minimally every 1-2 weeks with regular practice. More often if heavily sweating.
• Use mild, natural cleaning products. Avoid harsh chemicals that degrade mat materials.
• Let mat fully air dry before rolling to prevent mildew inside.
• Wash hands before practice to limit transferred oils and dirt.

A clean mat is essential for hygiene and safety, but too much washing can damage materials. Find the right balance for your practice frequency.

Choosing a Mat Cleaner

Look for gentle, versatile yoga mat cleaners:

• Natural cleaner sprays to easily disinfect and deodorize
• Mild soap concentrates that lift away grime and odors without dulling mat texture
• Gentle antibacterial wipes for travel to remove surface bacteria and sanitize
• DIY solutions of water and gentle soap like Dr. Bronner’s or Castile
• Simple non-toxic baby wipes to refresh the mat between washes

Avoid alcohol-based cleaners that degrade latex or PVC mats. Don’t use bleach solutions that damage colors.

Weekly Mat Washing

Set aside time weekly to thoroughly clean your mat:

Supplies Needed:

• Yoga mat cleaner or mild soap
• Washcloth or cleaning brush
• Towels
• Essential oils (optional)

Steps:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the mat to prevent the transfer of dirt and oils.
2. Remove any dust or hair from the mat surface.
3. Create a cleaning solution of mat wash or soap with warm water as directed. Avoid soaking padding.
4. Scrub the mat vigorously with a cloth or brush, focusing on high-traffic areas.
5. Rinse away all suds thoroughly with clean water, using towels to dry as you go.
6. Allow to fully air dry before rolling up to prevent mildew. Spot treat any remaining damp spots.
7. Once dry, optionally add a few drops of lemon, tea tree, or lavender oil to refresh the scent.
8. Enjoy your freshly cleaned, revived mat!

Regular soap and water keep your mat odor-free and grime-free.

Deep Cleaning Methods

For a periodic deeper clean:

• Hydrogen peroxide – Dilute in water, soak mat for 15 minutes, then rinse clean. Disinfects and deodorizes.
• Apple cider vinegar – Mix with water, spray onto the mat, allow to sit for 5 minutes, then wipe and rinse clean. Removes odors and residue.
• Baking soda – Sprinkle onto the mat, let sit for 20 minutes, and vacuum away. Absorbs odors and neutralizes acids from sweat.
• Borax – Dissolve in water, scrub into the mat, and rinse clean. Removes stains and brightens colors.

These natural solutions kill bacteria, remove odors, and restore mats without harsh chemicals. Perform every 1-2 months.

Preventative Care Between Washes

To prolong the time between washes:

• Use a non-toxic yoga mat towel to absorb sweat and skin oils. Wash the towel frequently.
• Spray the mat lightly with diluted vinegar or tea tree oil solution after use.
• Apply a layer of baking soda and let sit awhile to absorb odors before brushing off.
• Allow mats to air and sunlight after practice when possible to prevent dampness and mildew.
• Limit lotions, creams, or oils applied to the body before practice that transfer to the mat.

With some diligence, your mat can feel fresh and clean throughout its lifetime. Yoga is inherently a practice of mindfulness – let that extend to your mat!

Related Links：
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoga