Best Way To: How To Clean Manduka Yoga Mat Right

Keeping your Manduka yoga mat clean is important for hygiene, grip, and making it last a long time. Many people ask, how often should you clean your Manduka mat? A good rule is to clean your mat lightly after every single practice, especially if you sweat a lot or practice in a public place. You should deep clean your mat less often, perhaps every few months, or whenever it starts to look dirty or smell. Let’s look at the best ways to keep your Manduka mat fresh and clean.

How To Clean Manduka Yoga Mat
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Grasping Why Your Manduka Mat Needs Cleaning

Yoga mats collect sweat, dirt, and germs. Think about it: your hands, feet, and face touch the mat. Sweat and oils soak in. Over time, this buildup can make your mat smelly, slippery, and a place for germs to grow. Cleaning helps prevent these problems.

Cleaning your mat regularly does two main things:

Keeps it Clean and Healthy: You avoid practicing on a dirty surface.
Maintains Grip: Sweat and oil buildup can make your mat slick. Cleaning helps keep the grip you need.
Makes it Last: Proper care, including cleaning, helps protect the mat material. This means your mat stays in good shape longer.

Fathoming Different Manduka Mat Types

Manduka makes mats from different materials. The way you clean them is mostly the same, but some materials need extra care.

PRO Series (PRO, PROlite): These are made from closed-cell PVC material. This material does not soak up sweat. Sweat stays on the surface. This makes cleaning easier in some ways. But, new PRO mats, and sometimes clean ones, can feel slippery. This is normal and part of the ‘break-in’ process. Cleaning correctly is key.
eKO Series (eKO, eKOlite, eKO SuperLite): These mats are made from natural tree rubber. This material is more absorbent than the PRO mats. Cleaning Manduka eKOlite and other eKO mats needs gentler care. You must avoid soaking them. Rubber can break down if not cared for right.
GRP Series: These mats are designed for hot yoga and soak up sweat. They have a different surface texture. They need cleaning methods suited for sweat absorption.
Beginner Mats (X Mat, Welcome Mat): These are often closed-cell foam. They are generally easy to clean like PRO mats.

This guide will focus mainly on the PRO and eKO series, as they are very popular.

How Often Clean Manduka Mat: Setting a Schedule

Knowing how often to clean is important. It depends on how you use your mat.

After Every Practice: A quick wipe-down is best. This removes sweat and surface dirt right away.
Weekly: If you practice often (3+ times a week), a slightly deeper clean might be needed weekly.
Monthly or Every Few Months: This is when you do a full, deep clean. Do this if your mat starts to look dirty, feels a bit slick even after wiping, or has a smell.

Think of the quick wipe as like washing your hands. The deep clean is like taking a shower. Both are needed!

Your Manduka Mat Care Guide: General Tips

Here are some general rules for keeping your Manduka mat in top shape. This is part of a full Manduka mat care guide.

Always clean your mat after use.
Use the right cleaning products. Harsh chemicals can damage the mat.
Never put your mat in a washing machine or dryer.
Always air dry your mat completely before rolling or storing it.
Store your mat rolled up, not folded. Keep it out of direct sunlight.

Best Method Clean Manduka Mat: Choosing Your Cleaner

You have a few options for cleaning your Manduka mat. The best method clean Manduka mat depends on your mat type and how dirty it is.

Option 1: Manduka’s Own Cleaners

Manduka makes specific cleaning sprays for their mats. Using a Manduka yoga mat cleaning spray is a good choice because it’s made for their mat materials.

Manduka Mat Wash: This comes in different types (everyday, restore). These are designed to clean and condition the mat surface without causing damage. They often have essential oils which can leave a pleasant smell and help condition the surface.

Option 2: Simple Soap and Water

For many mat types, especially the closed-cell ones like the PRO series, a very mild soap and water mix works well.

Use a tiny amount of dish soap or gentle hand soap.
Mix it with water in a spray bottle or bowl.
Make sure to use very little soap. Too much soap is hard to rinse off and can leave a slippery residue.

Option 3: DIY Yoga Mat Cleaner Recipe

You can also make your own simple and natural cleaner. Here is a common DIY yoga mat cleaner recipe:

1/2 cup white vinegar
1/2 cup water
A few drops (5-10) of essential oil (like tea tree, lavender, or peppermint). Tea tree oil is good because it has natural cleaning properties. Lavender or peppermint add a nice smell.

Mix these in a spray bottle. Vinegar helps clean and remove smells. The essential oil adds scent and potentially helps with germs. Do not use too much essential oil, as it can be oily itself.

Option 4: Just Plain Water

For a very quick wipe after a light practice, plain water might be enough. However, water alone won’t remove oils or kill germs effectively.

Steer Clear of These Cleaners

Do NOT use these on your Manduka mat:

Alcohol or hydrogen peroxide: These can dry out and damage the mat material, especially rubber mats.
Harsh chemicals or cleaning sprays: Window cleaner, bathroom cleaner, etc., are too strong.
Too much soap: Leaves residue.
Oils (except a tiny amount in a DIY spray): Can make the mat slick or damage rubber.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide: Regular Clean

This is what you should do after every practice, or almost every practice.

Steps for a Quick Wipe Down:

Get your cleaner ready: Use a Manduka spray, your DIY mix, or a very dilute soap and water mix in a spray bottle.
Lay mat flat: Put your mat on the floor or hang it up.
Lightly spray: Spray the mat surface lightly. Do not soak it. Just a fine mist is enough to cover the area you used.
Wipe clean: Use a soft cloth (like microfiber) to wipe down the sprayed surface. Wipe away sweat and dirt.
Wipe with plain water (optional but recommended): If you used soap or a cleaner with oil, lightly dampen a different cloth with plain water and wipe the mat again. This helps remove any cleaner residue.
Dry: Use a dry cloth to wipe off as much moisture as you can.
Air dry: Let the mat air dry completely before rolling it up. Leave it flat or hang it over a chair or railing. Make sure it is completely dry to prevent smells and mildew.

This quick clean takes only a few minutes. It’s the best way to keep your mat fresh day-to-day.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide: Deep Clean

This is for when your mat needs more than just a quick wipe. This process is helpful for deep cleaning Manduka PRO mats or when trying to remove smell from yoga mat.

Steps for a Deep Clean:

Prepare your cleaning area: Find a space where you can lay the mat flat, like a clean floor, or outdoors.
Make your cleaner: Use a Manduka cleaner or your DIY mix. You might need a bit more cleaner than for a quick wipe, but still avoid soaking the mat.
Lay mat flat: Unroll your mat completely.
Spray mat: Lightly spray the entire surface of the mat with your cleaner. Focus a bit more on areas that see a lot of use or look dirty. For PRO mats, you can use slightly more liquid than on eKO mats, but still avoid soaking.
Let sit briefly: Let the cleaner sit on the surface for 1-5 minutes. This gives it time to work on dirt and oils. Do NOT let it dry on the mat.
Scrub gently (if needed): If there are stubborn spots, you can use a soft brush or sponge to gently scrub the area. Do not scrub hard, especially on textured surfaces.
Wipe clean: Use a damp cloth (dampened with plain water) to wipe the entire mat surface. Rinse the cloth often in clean water and wipe again. The goal is to wipe away all the cleaner and dissolved dirt. Keep wiping until no soapiness or residue remains. This is crucial for preventing slipperiness later.
Wipe dry: Use a clean, dry cloth to remove as much water as possible from the surface.
Air dry COMPLETELY: This is the most important step for drying a wet Manduka mat. Lay the mat flat or hang it up. Make sure there is good airflow. Do not roll it up until it is completely dry, front and back. This can take 24 hours or even longer depending on humidity.

Special Notes for Deep Cleaning Manduka PRO:

PRO mats can sometimes feel slippery after cleaning, especially when new or if any cleaner residue is left. Rinsing thoroughly is key. Some PRO users also find that doing a salt scrub (a separate process, not really cleaning, but for breaking in the mat) can help with initial slipperiness, but this is not part of regular cleaning. Focus on thorough rinsing to prevent slipperiness after washing.

Special Notes for Cleaning Manduka eKOlite (and other eKO mats):

Rubber mats are more sensitive.
* Use very little cleaner and water.
* Do not soak the mat.
* Avoid harsh scrubbing.
* Rinse very carefully, again using a damp cloth and wiping, rather than rinsing under running water.
* Drying a wet Manduka mat from the eKO series needs extra care to be sure it’s totally dry to prevent mildew, but also not left in direct sun which can damage the rubber.

Remove Smell From Yoga Mat

If your mat smells bad, it’s usually because of sweat and bacteria buildup, or not drying it fully. Deep cleaning is the best way to remove smell from yoga mat.

Follow the deep cleaning steps above.
Use a cleaner with vinegar or tea tree oil in your DIY mix, as these help fight smells. Manduka’s restore spray also helps.
Make sure you rinse all cleaner residue away.
Ensure the mat is absolutely dry before storing it. Smells can start if you roll up a damp mat.
Air out your mat regularly, even between practices. Don’t leave it rolled up in a hot car.

If the smell is really deep in a rubber mat (like eKO), it might be harder to get out because the material is absorbent. Proper, fast drying from the start is the best prevention.

Prevent Slippery Mat After Washing

This is a common problem, especially with Manduka PRO mats. Slipperyness after washing usually happens for two reasons:

Cleaner Residue: This is the most common reason. If you don’t rinse all the soap or cleaner off your mat, it leaves a thin, slippery film on the surface.
Water on the Surface: If the mat isn’t fully dry, water itself can make it slippery.

To prevent slippery mat after washing:

Rinse Thoroughly: After cleaning, use a clean cloth dampened with plain water to wipe the mat surface over and over. Rinse the cloth often. Keep wiping until you are sure no cleaner is left. This is more important than the cleaning step itself!
Dry Completely: Make sure the mat is bone dry before you use or store it.
Use the Right Cleaner: Use a cleaner specifically for yoga mats or a very mild, low-residue soap. Avoid cleaners with lots of oils (unless it’s a tiny amount of essential oil in a DIY mix, and you rinse well).
For PRO Mats (Break-in): Remember that new PRO mats have a break-in period where they might feel slippery. Regular use and wiping will help. Some people do a salt scrub (sprinkle sea salt, mist with water, rub, rinse very thoroughly) to speed this up, but this is not standard cleaning. Proper cleaning and rinsing after the salt scrub is still needed.

If your mat feels slippery during practice (not right after cleaning), it’s likely due to sweat sitting on the surface (for closed-cell mats like PRO) or the mat needing a deep clean to remove oil/dirt buildup.

Drying a Wet Manduka Mat Correctly

Drying is as important as cleaning. Doing it wrong can ruin your mat or make it smell bad.

Steps for Drying:

Wipe Away Excess Water: After rinsing, use a dry towel (microfiber works well) to wipe off as much surface water as possible.
Lay Flat or Hang: Find a place to lay the mat flat or hang it up. Hanging over a shower rod, fence, or chair back works. Make sure air can get to both sides of the mat if possible.
Ensure Airflow: Good airflow helps the mat dry faster. Open a window or use a fan if you can.
Keep out of Direct Sun: Do NOT dry rubber mats (eKO series) in direct sunlight. Sunlight can damage the rubber over time. PRO mats are more tolerant but still best dried out of harsh sun.
Be Patient: Manduka mats, especially the thicker ones, can take a long time to dry completely. PRO mats are closed-cell, so they don’t soak up water internally, but the surface can hold moisture. eKO mats are rubber and can trap moisture in their texture. It might take 24 hours or more for the mat to be truly dry all the way through.
Check for Dryness: Feel the mat surface and edges. It should feel completely dry and not cool to the touch (coolness can mean moisture is still present).
Store Only When Dry: Do not roll or store the mat until it is fully, completely dry.

Drying Method	Pros	Cons	Notes
Hanging	Airflow on both sides	Needs space; mat can be heavy when wet	Good over shower rods, fence rails.
Laying Flat	Easy; no hanging needed	Slower drying (only one side has air)	Good on a clean floor or porch. Flip it!
Direct Sunlight	Fast drying	Damages rubber mats; can fade PRO mats	AVOID, especially for eKO series.
Machine Dryer	Very fast	Will destroy the mat (melts, shrinks)	NEVER DO THIS.
Forced Air (Fan)	Speeds drying; good airflow	Uses electricity; need a fan pointed at mat	Helpful in humid places.
Towel Drying	Removes surface water quickly	Doesn’t dry deep down	Do this before air drying.

Interpreting Your Mat’s Needs: Signs It Needs Cleaning

Besides following a schedule, watch for these signs that your mat needs a clean:

It looks dirty: Visible sweat marks, dust, footprints.
It feels different: Maybe a bit sticky from residue, or slick from sweat/oil.
It smells: A faint or strong odor. This is a clear sign it needs a deep clean.
Grip issues: If your hands or feet are slipping more than usual, it could be due to surface buildup.

If you see any of these signs, don’t wait for your scheduled deep clean. Give it a good cleaning.

Manduka Mat Care Guide: Beyond Cleaning

Cleaning is just one part of caring for your mat. Here are other tips for your Manduka mat care guide:

Store Properly: Always roll your mat up loosely, with the top surface (the side you practice on) facing outwards. This helps prevent the corners from curling.
Keep out of Heat: Don’t leave your mat in a hot car or near a heater. This can damage the material.
Keep out of Direct Sun: Sunlight, especially for eKO mats, can break down the material and fade colors.
Avoid Creasing: Never fold your mat tightly. This can cause permanent creases.
Be Gentle: Don’t use sharp objects on your mat. Avoid wearing heavy jewelry that can scratch it.
Use a Towel: For hot yoga or if you sweat a lot, using a yoga towel on top of your mat can help absorb sweat and keep your mat cleaner longer. This reduces how often you need a deep clean and helps prevent smell from yoga mat.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Still Slippery After Cleaning? You likely have cleaner residue. Wipe it down repeatedly with a clean, damp cloth (plain water only), rinsing the cloth often. Then dry completely. For new PRO mats, remember the break-in period is separate from cleaning.
Mat Smells Even After Deep Clean? Make sure it is 100% dry. If moisture is left, it can still grow things that smell. Try airing it outside on a non-sunny day for a full day or two (if possible). Use a cleaner with anti-smell properties like vinegar or tea tree oil.
White Marks? This might be salt from sweat or mineral deposits if you used tap water. Wipe well with a clean, damp cloth and rinse thoroughly.
Colors Fading (eKO mats)? This can happen over time, but direct sun speeds it up. Store out of sun.

FAQ: Your Manduka Mat Cleaning Questions Answered

Q: Can I use Lysol wipes or other disinfectant wipes on my Manduka mat?
A: No. These wipes often contain harsh chemicals like alcohol or bleach that can damage the mat material, especially rubber mats like the eKO series. Stick to gentle, mat-specific cleaners or simple DIY mixes.

Q: How do I deep clean Manduka PRO mat?
A: Lay it flat, spray lightly with a gentle cleaner (Manduka’s PRO spray, very dilute soap, or vinegar/water mix), let sit briefly, wipe thoroughly with a damp cloth (rinse cloth often!), wipe dry, and air dry completely for up to 24 hours or more. The key is rinsing all cleaner residue away.

Q: Can I use essential oils directly on my mat?
A: No, do not put pure essential oils directly on the mat. They are too concentrated and can damage the material or make the mat slippery. Use only a few drops mixed into a large amount of water and vinegar for a DIY spray, or use a cleaner that contains essential oils mixed in a safe way.

Q: My eKOlite mat feels a bit dry, can I put oil on it?
A: Do not use cooking oils or body oils. Manduka makes a rubber mat restore spray that can help condition eKO mats. If you use a DIY cleaner with a tiny amount of essential oil, that might offer a little conditioning, but the main focus should be on gentle cleaning and proper drying.

Q: How long does it take for a wet Manduka mat to dry?
A: It can take 24 hours or sometimes even longer, depending on humidity and airflow. Always make sure it is completely dry before rolling it up.

Q: How often should I deep clean my Manduka mat?
A: Deep clean every few months, or whenever it looks dirty, feels excessively slippery from buildup (not just post-cleaning residue), or starts to smell bad. Regular wiping after each use is more important for daily hygiene.

Q: Is the salt scrub necessary for Manduka PRO mats?
A: The salt scrub is not for cleaning. It’s a method some people use to speed up the initial break-in of a new PRO mat, which helps reduce the waxy feel and improve grip. It is not part of regular cleaning, and you still need to clean and rinse thoroughly after doing a salt scrub.

Q: Can I hang my Manduka mat outside to dry?
A: Yes, you can hang it outside, but keep it out of direct sunlight, especially if it’s an eKO (rubber) mat. A shady spot with good airflow is best.

In Conclusion

Keeping your Manduka yoga mat clean doesn’t have to be hard. Regular, quick cleaning after each use is key for hygiene and preventing buildup. Deep cleaning every so often tackles deeper dirt and smells. Whether you use a Manduka yoga mat cleaning spray, a simple soap and water mix, or your own DIY yoga mat cleaner recipe, the most important steps are using a gentle cleaner, rinsing thoroughly to prevent slippery mat after washing, and completely drying a wet Manduka mat before you store it. Follow this Manduka mat care guide, pay attention to how often you clean your Manduka mat based on your practice, and you’ll keep your mat fresh, functional, and long-lasting, whether you’re cleaning Manduka eKOlite or doing a deep cleaning Manduka PRO. Your mat supports your practice, so take good care of it!