The Best Way to Clean Yoga Mats and Care for Yoga Mats
Jack UtermoehlThe safest way to clean a yoga mat depends on its surface material and the manufacturer's care instructions. After practice, remove sweat and surface dirt with a soft cloth and a cleaner approved for that mat. Let it dry completely before rolling or storing. Avoid soaking, heat, strong chemicals, and abrasive treatments unless the specific manufacturer explicitly recommends them.
Mat care quick start
Clean, dry, and store your mat safely
- Check your mat's care label and identify its top surface.
- Remove loose dust with a soft, clean cloth.
- Wipe with an approved cleaner, following product directions.
- Dry completely away from excessive heat before storage.
- Inspect for peeling, cracking, persistent odor, or loss of grip.
Important: vinegar, essential oils, heavy soaking, and sanding are not appropriate universal cleaning methods. Confirm the specific brand's instructions before using any of them.
Imagine if your yoga mat could talk. What tales might it share? Each crease, each mark, a testament to your dedication, a witness to your growth, an echo of laughter from a toppled tree pose, a whisper of your breath in Savasana. As practitioners, we form an intimate bond with our yoga mat. It's more than an accessory - it's our partner in practice, our island of tranquility, a map guiding us on our journey within.
"How you do anything, is how you do everything"
The care we extend towards our yoga mat is a mirror to the care we extend to ourselves. It is a practice of seva (selfless service), a gesture of respect to the yoga mat that supports us as we explore our potential, unfold our strength, and cultivate inner peace. It's a tangible way of cherishing the unity between mind, body, spirit, and the world around us.
So let’s talk about yoga mat care, from cleaning to storage and transportation. We'll delve into the essence of what it means to truly care for your yoga mat and, by extension, your practice, and ultimately, yourself. After all, we're all bound by the common thread of striving to live our yoga, both on and off the mat.
How to Clean a Yoga Mat Safely
The right cleaning method depends on the top layer, backing, and manufacturer. Before using any spray or cleaning recipe, read the mat's care label. A technique that works for one type of mat may discolor, weaken, or damage another.
A Simple Post-Practice Cleaning Routine
- Identify the mat's material. Check whether the surface is cork, polyurethane, natural rubber, PVC, TPE, or fabric, and follow its manufacturer's advice.
- Remove surface debris. Use a soft clean cloth or towel to lift dust, skin oils, and sweat without scrubbing aggressively.
- Clean only with a product approved for your mat. If the manufacturer permits water or diluted mild soap, apply it sparingly to a cloth rather than soaking the entire mat. Otherwise use the specified cleaning spray.
- Wipe away any residue as directed by the maker, especially if a product could leave the surface slippery.
- Allow the mat to dry fully in a ventilated space away from excessive heat or harsh direct sunlight before rolling and storing.
If you share equipment in a yoga studio, follow the studio's cleaning protocol and use a product appropriate for the mat surface. Cleaning and disinfecting are not interchangeable: only use a disinfectant when the mat maker explicitly confirms compatibility and follow the product label.
Cleaning Considerations by Yoga Mat Material
| Mat surface | Practical care approach |
|---|---|
| Cork | Wipe gently with a soft cloth and a cleaner approved for that cork mat. Avoid abrasive rubbing and prolonged soaking unless the maker allows it. |
| Natural rubber | Follow the brand's instructions; some natural-rubber mats are sensitive to oils, cleaners, prolonged sunlight, and excess moisture. |
| Polyurethane-coated | Use the manufacturer-approved wiping method. Avoid experimenting with vinegar, harsh detergents, or oily sprays that could affect grip and finish. |
| PVC or TPE | Cleaning requirements differ by brand, additives, and surface finish. Only use soap, water, or disinfectants if expressly compatible. |
| Cotton or fabric | Follow the textile care label; machine washing may be suitable for some woven rugs but not for mats with attached rubber or foam backings. |
What About Deep Cleaning?
Frequent gentle maintenance is usually easier on a yoga mat than occasional heavy cleaning. Do not assume a mat is safe to submerge, hose down, scrub, machine wash, or leave soaking. Some porous layers and adhesives can trap moisture or degrade. If your mat has a stubborn odor, visible residue, or persistent slipperiness, look up the maker's material-specific instructions and check whether replacement is warranted.
Avoid universal DIY cleaning formulas. Vinegar, tea tree oil, other essential oils, solvents, bleach, and concentrated detergents may affect grip, adhesives, finishes, or material durability. Only use them if the maker specifically approves the exact product and dilution. Do not sand a mat's surface as a general way to improve grip.
For a cork surface compatible with the manufacturer's cleaning guidance, you can explore the Natural Cork Yoga Mat Cleaner Spray. Product compatibility should determine the choice, not a promise that one cleaner works on every yoga mat.
How to Store Your Yoga Mat
From my experience, I've found that the way we store and handle our yoga mats greatly influences not just their longevity but also the energy and flow of our yoga space and our practice.
The Significance of Mindful Yoga Mat Storage
Whether you're a studio owner managing multiple yoga mats or a practitioner with a single yoga mat, the essence of mindful storage and handling remains the same. It's about creating and maintaining a space that is not only organized and clean but also welcoming and respectful.
Three Effective Yoga Mat Storage Methods for Yoga Studios
Through my journey as a yoga practitioner and teacher, I've seen various ways of storing yoga mats. Here are three of the most common methods.
See our comprehensive selection of yoga mat storage solutions.
Vertical Yoga Mat Holder
A vertical mat holder is an excellent option for tucking yoga mats into corners and small areas. It's practical and easy to use – simply roll your mat and place it in one of the holder's slots or in the open top of the holder. These add a specific aesthetic to a yoga studio or yoga store space.
Horizontal Yoga Mat Rack
A horizontal rack provides an easy, grab-and-go solution for studios or home use. The rack holds mats in a rolled, horizontal position, making them easily accessible. This is great to save space on the floor. As with the vertical holder, ensure the mat is completely dry before storing it this way.
Personal Yoga Mat Bag
For individual practitioners, storing your yoga mat in a yoga mat bag can be a good choice. It protects the mat, makes it portable, and allows you to quickly go from storage to transportation. Plus, having a designated container for your yoga mat reinforces the idea of yoga being a part of your daily life, not just something you do at a studio or specific space.
In essence, how we store and handle our mats is a reflection of our yoga practice. It's an extension of the respect we have for our yoga mats, our yoga space, and our yoga community. By cultivating mindful habits around our yoga mats, we contribute to a more harmonious, respectful, and welcoming environment for all.
Storing Your Yoga Mat at Home
Each of the methods above are great, especially if you have multiple yoga mats!
However at home you may simply want to put your yoga mat in a convenient place such as a closet or a shelf near your door. While it is most convenient to leave your yoga mat in your car, the extreme temperature and elements may reduce the longevity of your yoga mat.
Some yoga mats like traditional ‘eco-friendly’ yoga mats may dry out and flake plastic particles in extreme heat. While trapped moisture may freeze in cold temperatures. Natural materials such as cork and natural rubber may weather the elements better but it is still good practice to bring your yoga mat into your home with you to increase its longevity.
Extending Yoga Mat Lifespan
Over the years, as my yoga practice deepened, so did my relationship with my yoga mat. I've found that the extra care and attention I give my yoga mat not only enhances its lifespan but also enriches my practice and alignment with my yoga journey's goals and intentions.
Using a Yoga Towel to Minimize Wear and Tear
The use of yoga towels can prevent wear and tear on your yoga mat, especially for hot yoga classes or those who sweat a lot during practice. By absorbing sweat and reducing friction, the yoga towel reduces wear and tear. The drawback is most towels are finicky when it comes to grip on your hands or your yoga mat. They often get folds and may become slippery. Most are made with materials that may cause skin irritation over time.
Embrace Practicing Yoga Barefoot
I am always barefoot on my yoga mat. Avoiding shoes and even socks helps keep the mat clean and free from unnecessary pressure and strain that can damage its surface. Except dedicated yoga socks which add extra grip while providing warmth to your feet, just keep them clean!
Prioritize Regular Cleaning and Proper Storage
As we've discussed earlier, regular cleaning and proper storage are crucial for extending the life of your yoga mat. Regular cleaning is better than deep cleaning for longevity. The consistency of these actions reflects our dedication to our yoga practice and our commitment to the yogic values of cleanliness (sauca) and non-excess (aparigraha).
Transport Your Yoga Mat Mindfully
The way we carry our yoga mat to and from our yoga classes can also affect its longevity. I recommend using a yoga mat bag or yoga mat carrying strap to protect your mat from the elements and make transportation easier. It's also good practice to roll your mat with the top side (the side you practice on) facing outwards. This helps the corners stay flat when you unroll it for practice.
When to Replace Yoga Mat
In the ever-evolving journey of yoga, change is inevitable and often necessary for growth. Our yoga mats, despite the care and attention we shower on them, are not immune to this cycle of life. Recognizing the signs of when it's time to replace our yoga mat is not only important for our safety and comfort during practice but also reflects our conscious adaptation to change and our commitment to sustainability.
Yoga Mat Wear and Tear Signs
Over time, despite the best care, yoga mats can start showing signs of wear and tear. Perhaps the texture is wearing thin, causing you to slip during your downward dog. Maybe the material is starting to crumble, or there are visible tears or holes. These are clear signs that your yoga mat has served you well and that it's time to honor its service by retiring it.
From a teacher or a studio owner's perspective, keeping an eye out for these signs is crucial to ensure the safety and comfort of your students. After all, the state of your yoga props is a reflection of your service to your community.
The Durability and Aging of Cork Yoga Mats
If you're considering investing in a new yoga mat, I want to share my personal experience with cork yoga mats. What stands out about cork yoga mats is their incredible durability and unique aging process.
Cork is a naturally resilient material. Unlike most other mats that degrade with use, cork mats seem to 'break-in' and perform better with time. They increase in grip the more they are used, providing a stable, non-slip surface that's excellent for any form of yoga practice.
Another intriguing aspect of cork yoga mats is how they age. Over time, cork naturally darkens sharing in your yoga journey. Rather than looking worn out, this darkening adds character and depth, making your mat truly unique, much like how our yoga practice shapes and molds us over time.
I wrote a whole article on cork yoga mats and I created the Asivana Cork Yoga Mat because I believe that cork yoga mats are the best yoga mats in modern times for practicing yoga while being grounded, cushioned, and stable.
Making the Transition Mindfully
Choosing to replace your mat can be a significant decision, especially if the mat holds sentimental value. I've found that acknowledging the cycle of life and treating the transition as an opportunity for growth makes the process easier and more meaningful.
When it's time for a new yoga mat, consider donating or recycling your old mat if it's still in usable condition. There are many organizations that appreciate such donations, and it's another way we can practice seva.
Replacing your yoga mat is a natural part of your yoga journey. It's an opportunity to renew your commitment to your practice, to invest in your comfort and safety, and to make a conscious choice that aligns with your values and needs. As we navigate this process, we embody the spirit of adaptation and continuous growth that is at the heart of yoga.
What to Do With Old Yoga Mats?
You can do a lot with old yoga mats. They still have a lot of value and function even after they have lost their edge for your own yoga practice.
Repurpose
Use your creativity to repurpose your old yoga mat. It can be cut into mouse pads, jar openers, garden knee pads, shelf liners, camping mats, and even flip-flops. I’ve seen retired yoga mats used for holding rugs in place and bio-degradable materials could even be used as environmentally friendly weed mats in your garden (until the microbes win and break the materials down.
Use your creativity and I’m certain you’ll find a way to repurpose a yoga mat that no longer functions for your yoga practice.
Recycle
Not all yoga mats are recyclable due to the variety of materials used. However, yoga mats made of natural rubber or other recyclable materials can often be recycled. Check with local recycling facilities to see if they accept yoga mats. Or see manufacturer return programs (below).
Donate
If the mat is still in usable condition (clean and free of significant damage), consider donating it to local charities, community centers, animal shelters (they can be used as pet beds), or secondhand stores.
Manufacturer Return Programs
Some yoga mat manufacturers have programs that accept old mats and recycle them into new products. Check if your yoga mat manufacturer offers such a program.
Conditioning Your New Yoga Mat
Every new beginning, be it a new yoga mat or a new chapter in our yoga journey, brings with it a sense of excitement, hope, and sometimes, a bit of apprehension. As we welcome our new yoga mat into our lives, we can use this moment to set intentions, embrace change, and prepare ourselves for the exciting experiences that await.
Airing Out Your New Yoga Mat
It's quite common for a new yoga mat, particularly ones made of rubber, TPE, and other fossil fuel derived polymers, to have a distinct ‘new yoga mat smell’ due to the manufacturing process which is why your new yoga mat smells like chemicals.
New Yoga Mat Smells Like Chemicals?
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): New PVC yoga mats often have a strong chemical smell. This is due to the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the manufacturing process. The odor typically diminishes over time with use and proper airing out.
TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomers): TPE yoga mats may also have a mild smell when new, though not as strong as PVC. It's a synthetic material and its smell is due to the compounds used in its creation.
Natural Rubber: Natural rubber yoga mats can have a distinct, often earthy smell. Some users find this smell strong and a bit unpleasant initially, but it usually fades with time and use.
Cork: Cork yoga mats have a very mild, almost non-existent smell that can be described as slightly earthy or woody. Since cork is a natural material, it does not release harmful chemicals or strong odors.
Get Rid of Yoga Mat Smell
- Unroll your new mat and leave it in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
- Allow the mat to air out for 1-3 days until the smell dissipates.
- You can also gently wipe the surface with a soft cloth and a mild yoga mat cleaner to help speed up the process.
New Yoga Mat Conditioning
Besides airing out your new yoga mat, you may also want to consider a few more steps.
Clean Your New Yoga Mat
Check the manufacturer’s instructions before cleaning a new mat. Some only need an initial wipe with a soft dry cloth; others allow a specific mild cleaning solution. Do not assume soap or warm water is appropriate for every material.
Break Your New Yoga Mat In
Just like a new pair of shoes, your yoga mat will go through a break-in period to some degree. This could be 1 yoga session or dozens. To begin this process simply use it regularly, which will help the material soften up, and improve its grip. Doing a mix of standing poses, seated poses, and flowing sequences can help even out the wear across the mat.
Proper Storage for a New Yoga Mat
Store your yoga mat unrolled if you have the space, or loosely rolled with the practice side out. This helps the yoga mat keep its shape and prevents creasing or curling. This is only necessary for a short period of time, maybe 1-2 weeks.
Improving Grip on a New Yoga Mat
If a new mat feels slippery, confirm it is clean and dry, try the maker's recommended break-in routine, and check whether moisture, a towel, or a different mat surface is more appropriate for your practice. Do not use sandpaper or abrasive cleaning unless the manufacturer expressly instructs you to do so. Abrasion can permanently damage the practice surface.
Manufacturer Recommendations
Always follow the specific care instructions that come with your yoga mat. Each material and brand might have unique requirements or recommendations for conditioning and cleaning. Proper conditioning not only improves your experience with your new mat but also extends its lifespan.
Setting Intentions With Your New Yoga Mat
When I get a new yoga mat, I take a moment to set an intention or sankalpa. As I unroll the yoga mat for the first time, I silently voice my intention, infusing it into my yoga practice. This could be a personal goal, a commitment to a value or principle, or a mantra that resonates with me.
Your yoga mat is a reflection of your yoga journey. Each time you step on it, you're expressing your commitment to your yoga practice, your personal growth, and your well-being. By setting an intention, you anchor your practice in something meaningful, something that inspires and motivates you.
Your Yoga Mat Care Journey
As we draw this exploration of yoga mat care to a close, let's circle back to the central idea that has been threading through our discussion. Yoga mat care, much like our practice itself, is about more than just the physical. It's an expression of our values, our dedication, and our interconnectedness with ourselves, our community, and the world around us.
"How you do anything, is how you do everything"
Embodying Asivana's Core Values
Through proper mat care, we embody the spirit of Asivana – unity, heroism, service, community, and sustainability. Each act, from regular cleaning to mindful storage, from deep cleaning to recognizing when it's time for a new yoga mat, is a reflection of these principles.
Every time we unroll our yoga mat, we're not just preparing for a physical practice; we're stepping into a space of personal growth, self-discovery, and transformative power. And every time we care for our yoga mat, we're honoring this sacred space and the journey that unfolds on it.
Empowering Every Yogi
If you're at a point in your journey where you're considering a new yoga mat, I'd like to share something with you. In my quest for the ideal yoga mat that enhances our yoga practice and respects our environment, I created the Asivana Cork Yoga Mat.
Made with sustainable, high-quality cork, the Asivana Cork Yoga Mat embodies durability and an ideal surface for grip and control. It becomes grippier with use and sweat, making it a faithful companion for your evolving yoga journey. If you're interested, I encourage you to check it out and see if it resonates with you.
Blessings on your journey, yogi.
Jack
