Yoga mats are non slip surfaces that are used extensively to decrease the potential of injuries and improve grip. They are used for their traction and safety, joint protection, hygiene and comfort. In Dubai’s hot climate, people sweat even more during indoor workouts, which makes regular cleaning mandatory. These mats collect dust and floor dirt, and these become a breeding ground for bacteria and germs. Apart from this, it generates a lot of sweat after doing vinyasa yoga, which leads to an unpleasant smell and makes the surface slippery. Thus, the neglect of its cleaning can impact your wellbeing and lead to health concerns.
It must be cleaned regularly to ensure the surface is grippy. If you have the same query in mind, “How to clean a yoga mat without damaging it?” then this guide is for you.
Why Does Cleaning Your Yoga Mats Matter?
Over time, mats that are not regularly cleaned will begin to accumulate bacteria, germs and unpleasant odours, which will make them difficult to remove. These mats come into direct contact with the face, hands or feet; hence, it is imperative that they are kept clean on a regular basis. Regular cleaning is beneficial in many different ways, such as:
- Reduces bacteria and germs
- Eliminates sweat and body oils
- Improves grip and prevents skin irritation
- Keeps workout area hygienic
- Extends your mat’s lifespan
How Often Should You Clean Your Yoga Mat?
The frequency of cleaning depends on the material and how often you practice.
| Usage | Cleaning Frequency |
| Daily cleaning | Deep clean weekly and wipe after each session |
| 3-4 times per week | Wipe after use and deep clean after every 2 weeks |
| Once a week | Wipe after use and deep clean monthly |
| Hot Yoga | Clean after every session and deep clean weekly |
What Cleaning Equipment Do You Need?
Before you start cleaning, there are some essential pieces of equipment that you’ll need. It includes:
- Warm water
- Mild dish soap
- Soft microfiber cloth
- Sponge
- Spray bottle
- Towel
- Baking soda (optional)
- White vinegar (optional)
How To Clean A Yoga Mat After Every Use?
Clean your mat after use, and in order to reduce dirt accumulation, follow the steps.
- Mix 2 cups of warm water and 2-3 drops of mild dish soap used for cleaning. Place this mixture in a spray bottle.
- Now spray this mixture on your mat and avoid soaking it.
- Use a microfiber cloth to clean both sides of the mat.
- Gently wipe down hands and feet resting places.
- Hang up and dry the mat. Don’t keep a damp mat — allow it to dry out.
How to Deep Clean a Yoga Mat?
For those mats that are not cleaned for weeks, have a bad odour, and stains, then deep cleaning is advised.
- Use lukewarm water and fill a bathtub with it.
- Now add a few drops of mild soap to it.
- After that, place your mat into the water.
- Scrub both sides of it using a gentle scrub.
- Rinse it with clean water, and remove the excess water.
- Do not use it until dry.
DIY Yoga Mat Cleaner Recipe
The best advice is to use homemade cleaners, which do not contain harmful chemicals and are budget-friendly. To do this, you must:
- Combine 1 cup water with 1/2 cup white vinegar, 5 drops of tea tree oil and 5 drops of lavender oil.
- After mixing, shake thoroughly and wipe down with the microfiber cloth.
- The application of lavender oil gives a good smell, and tea tree oil decreases bacteria.
How to Remove Sweat Smell from a Yoga Mat?
To get the sweat smell out of the mat, you should do the following:
- Sprinkle baking soda over your mat.
- Now set it aside for 20-30 minutes.
- Then, clean off the powder from the surface.
- Use a damp cloth to wipe.
- Dry thoroughly before use.
It will absorb all the odour from your mat.
How to Remove Stains from a Yoga Mat?
Use easy-to-follow instructions to get rid of tough stains on your mat.
- Apply a small amount of water with baking soda solution.
- Turn it into a paste and then apply it to the stained area.
- Allow it to stand for a minimum of 10 minutes.
- Then carefully rub the surface with a wet cloth.
Be careful of scrubbing; otherwise, it could damage the mat.
How to Clean Different Types of Yoga Mats?
There are various materials used to produce yoga mats, and if you’ve got a custom mat, it’s especially important to know its exact material before you clean it, since customized options often use different fabric blends.
- PVC mats are easy to clean and can be wiped down with a damp cloth, mild soap and warm water.
- Yoga mats made from natural rubber are fragile. So, you should try to avoid using vinegar, alcohol, and bleach.
- Cork yoga mat are naturally anti bacterial. A little mild soap and a wet cloth will do.
Can You Wash a Yoga Mat in the Washing Machine?
There are some lightweight PVC mats which are machine washable too. However, most of the yoga mats are not machine washable. This can ruin the quality of the product and cause damage and cracks. So, it is better to refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Summing Up!
For improving your practice of yoga, it is suggested that one must be well aware of the ways of cleaning their yoga mats. This involves getting to know about wiping the mat each time after its use and also the method of deep cleaning, which would eliminate the smell from it and make it comfortable for you for years. One must avoid harsh chemicals and make sure that the mat dries up before using. Brands like Hayat Interiors also offer guidance on choosing the right mat material from the start, which makes long term maintenance even easier.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How long should a yoga mat be used?
It depends on the type of material. For regular mats, one can use them for 6 months to 2 years. For premium mats, one can use them for 2 to 5 years.
Should you wash the yoga mats?
Yes, washing a yoga mat helps to get rid of bad odour, stains, body oils etc.
Can you wash a yoga mat with dish soap?
Yes, one can do it, but the important thing is to make it dry first before using it.
Can you use vinegar to clean your yoga mats?
Yes, white vinegar can also be used to clean the mat, but only when it is diluted with water.
Can You Use Alcohol to Clean a Yoga Mat?
When you use alcohol based cleaners on your mats, it will dry out the mats. Thus, it is recommended to use a mild soap, a damp cloth, and the approved cleanser from the manufacturer.
Can You Use Disinfectant Wipes?
Disinfecting wipes are also available, but they have harsh chemicals. Thus, it is better to make sure that the wipes you have chosen are alcohol-free, clean the surface with water, and then dry it properly.
