How do you clean your yoga mat? You clean your yoga mat by wiping it down often with a simple mix of water and a little soap or vinegar, or by using a cleaner made for yoga mats. The exact way depends on what your mat is made from. Keeping it clean helps get rid of sweat, dirt, and germs. You should clean it regularly to keep it fresh and make it last longer. We will walk through the best way to clean your yoga mat, including natural options and tips for different mat types.
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Why Clean Your Yoga Mat?
Your yoga mat goes through a lot. It touches your hands, feet, and body while you sweat and move. Over time, it gathers dirt, sweat, skin cells, and germs. Cleaning it is not just about making it look nice. It’s important for health and taking care of your mat.
Keeping Germs Away
Think about where your mat has been. The floor of a studio, your living room, maybe even outside. It picks up tiny things you can’t see. Sweat and warmth create a good place for germs and bacteria to grow. Cleaning helps kill these germs. This means less chance of skin problems or getting sick from things on your mat. A clean mat is a healthier mat for your practice.
Making Your Mat Last Longer
Dirt, oil from your skin, and sweat can break down the stuff your mat is made of. This makes it wear out faster. It can make the surface slippery or cause parts of the mat to crumble or pull apart. Cleaning away the grime protects the mat’s material. This helps it stay strong and grippy for many yoga sessions to come. Taking care of your mat means you won’t need to buy a new one as often.
Saying Goodbye to Smells
Let’s be honest, mats can get smelly. Sweat and bacteria are the main reasons. If your mat has a bad smell, it can make your yoga practice less enjoyable. Cleaning stinky yoga mat issues needs a good plan. Regular cleaning stops smells before they start. If your mat already smells, special cleaning steps can help get rid of the odor. Nobody wants to do downward dog over a stinky mat!
How Often Should You Clean Your Mat?
Knowing how often to clean yoga mat is key. It really depends on how often you use it and how much you sweat.
After Every Use (Quick Wipe)
This is the best habit to get into. After each practice, especially if you sweat a lot or are in a public place like a studio, do a quick clean.
* What to do: Use a cleaning spray (more on this later) and a clean cloth. Lightly spray the mat and wipe it down. This removes sweat and surface dirt right away.
* Why: This stops germs from settling in and keeps your mat feeling fresh for the next time. It’s like rinsing your dishes right after eating.
Weekly or Bi-Weekly (Deeper Clean)
If you practice a few times a week, a deeper clean is a good idea.
* What to do: Spend a little more time wiping the mat down thoroughly on both sides. You might use a bit more cleaner or scrub gently on spots that look dirty.
* Why: This gets rid of deeper dirt and grime that the quick wipe might miss. It helps keep your mat truly clean over time.
When It Looks or Smells Bad (Targeted Clean)
Sometimes you just know it’s time. If you see visible dirt or your mat starts to smell, don’t wait.
* What to do: This is when you might need a more targeted cleaning method or even a full wash, depending on the mat type and how dirty it is. Cleaning stinky yoga mat requires action!
* Why: Ignoring visible dirt or smells only makes the problem worse. Deal with it right away to keep your mat in good shape.
Think about your yoga habits. If you do hot yoga every day, you’ll need to clean more often than someone who does gentle yoga once a week.
Choosing Your Cleaning Method
You have choices when it comes to yoga mat cleaning solutions. You can buy a cleaner or make one yourself.
Ready-Made Cleaners
Many companies make sprays and wipes just for yoga mats. These are easy and quick to use.
What to Look For
- Natural Ingredients: Look for cleaners made with plant-based ingredients. These are often gentler on your mat and better for you and the earth.
- Non-Toxic: Make sure the cleaner doesn’t have harsh chemicals. You don’t want those touching your skin or breathing them in during practice.
- Mat-Specific: Some cleaners are made for certain mat materials (like rubber or PVC). Check the label to be sure it’s right for your mat.
- Yoga Mat Disinfectant (Optional): If you practice in public places or want extra germ-killing power, look for a cleaner that says it disinfects. But be careful; some disinfectants can be harsh. Find one with gentle ingredients if possible.
What to Avoid
- Alcohol: Too much alcohol can dry out some mat materials, especially natural rubber. It can make them crack or lose their grip. A little bit is okay in some blends, but pure alcohol is often too strong.
- Harsh Chemicals: Stay away from strong cleaning products like bleach, ammonia, or general household cleaners. These can damage your mat, leave behind harmful stuff, and create strong fumes.
- Heavy Oils: Some oils can make your mat slippery or leave a sticky film. Be careful with cleaners that seem very oily.
Making Your Own Cleaner
Making a DIY yoga mat cleaner is simple, cheap, and lets you know exactly what’s in it. A homemade yoga mat spray is a popular option.
Simple Recipe Ideas
These natural yoga mat cleaner recipes use things you might already have.
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Water & Soap:
- Mix a few drops of mild dish soap (like Castile soap) with water in a spray bottle.
- Castile soap is natural and gentle.
- Use very little soap; too much will make your mat slippery or leave a film.
- This is good for light cleaning.
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Water & Vinegar:
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
- Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and helps cut through grease and smells.
- It can have a strong smell at first, but this goes away as it dries.
- This is great for cleaning stinky yoga mat problems.
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Water, Vinegar, & Essential Oils:
- Mix equal parts water and white vinegar.
- Add 5-10 drops of essential oil. Good choices include:
- Tea Tree Oil: Has natural anti-germ properties (yoga mat disinfectant).
- Lavender Oil: Smells nice and is relaxing.
- Eucalyptus Oil: Smells fresh and can help with smells.
- Lemon or Orange Oil: Smells clean and uplifting.
- Shake well before each use, as oil and water don’t mix perfectly.
- Essential oils add a nice smell and can boost cleaning power (tea tree). This makes a lovely smelling homemade yoga mat spray.
How to Make Your Spray
- Get a clean spray bottle (an old cleaner bottle rinsed out well, or buy a new one).
- Pour in the liquids according to your chosen recipe (e.g., half water, half vinegar).
- Add essential oils if using.
- Put the spray top on tightly.
- Gently shake to mix.
- Always label your bottle clearly!
Why These Work
These natural yoga mat cleaner options work because:
* Water: Helps lift dirt.
* Soap (mild): Breaks down oils and dirt so they can be wiped away.
* Vinegar: Kills many common germs and bacteria, and helps neutralize odors. It’s a good natural yoga mat disinfectant.
* Essential Oils: Can add anti-germ power (tea tree) and make the mat smell nice, helping with cleaning stinky yoga mat issues.
Using a DIY yoga mat cleaner is often the best way to clean yoga mat if you want to avoid chemicals and save money.
Cleaning Different Mat Types
Not all yoga mats are the same. The best way to clean yoga mat depends a lot on what it’s made of. Using the wrong cleaner or method can ruin your mat. This section covers cleaning different types of yoga mats.
PVC/Closed-Cell Mats
- Examples: Many basic, sticky mats are made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride). They often feel smooth or slightly textured but don’t soak up liquid easily.
- How to Clean: These are the easiest to clean.
- They can handle most yoga mat cleaning solutions, including DIY sprays with vinegar or mild soap.
- You can wipe them down well.
- They dry relatively quickly because liquid stays on the surface.
- What to Watch Out For: While durable, strong chemicals or abrasive scrubbing can still damage the surface over time. Too much alcohol might make them brittle.
Natural Rubber Mats
- Examples: Mats from brands like Manduka (eKO series), JadeYoga, and Liforme often use natural rubber. They usually feel dense and have a good grip. They tend to be more absorbent than PVC.
- How to Clean: Be more gentle with natural rubber.
- Use specific rubber mat cleaners or a simple DIY mix of water and a tiny amount of mild soap.
- Wipe gently.
- Because they are porous, they can soak up liquid. Don’t use too much cleaner and don’t soak them.
- What to Watch Out For:
- Vinegar: Some people avoid vinegar on rubber, as it can potentially break down the material over a long time or leave a residue. Others use diluted vinegar without issue; test a small spot first.
- Alcohol: Definitely avoid alcohol-based cleaners. They dry out rubber quickly, leading to cracking and loss of grip.
- Sunlight: Keep rubber mats out of direct sunlight when drying or storing, as UV rays damage rubber.
TPE Mats
- Examples: TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) mats are often lightweight, soft, and eco-friendly alternatives to PVC. They might feel slightly spongy.
- How to Clean: These mats are somewhat in between PVC and rubber.
- Use gentle cleaning solutions. Mild soap and water, or a diluted vinegar solution are usually okay.
- Wipe gently.
- What to Watch Out For: TPE is less durable than PVC or rubber. Harsh chemicals or vigorous scrubbing can easily damage the surface. They can also be more prone to showing wear.
Cotton/Jute Mats
- Examples: Some mats have a layer of natural fibers like cotton or jute on top of rubber or PVC, or are mostly made of woven natural materials.
- How to Clean: Cleaning these depends on the backing and how they are made.
- Spot Cleaning: Use a damp cloth and a tiny bit of mild soap on dirty spots.
- Air Out: Often, just airing them out is enough for light freshness.
- Washing Yoga Mat (for some): Some woven cotton or jute mats can be washed, sometimes even in a machine on a gentle cycle (check the mat’s instructions!). However, mats with rubber or PVC backings usually cannot be machine washed.
- What to Watch Out For: These mats soak up water easily and can take a long time to dry. If they don’t dry completely, they can grow mildew and smell bad.
Choosing the right method based on your mat material is crucial for effective and safe cleaning different types of yoga mats.
Step-by-Step Guide: Basic Cleaning
This is the general method for the quick clean after each use or the weekly wipe down. This is often the best way to clean yoga mat for regular maintenance.
Gather Your Stuff
- Your yoga mat
- Your chosen cleaning solution (store-bought spray or homemade yoga mat spray)
- A clean, soft cloth or sponge (microfiber cloths work well)
- Maybe a second damp cloth for rinsing (optional)
- A dry towel
Mix Your Cleaner (if DIY)
If you’re making a homemade yoga mat spray, mix it up now in your spray bottle using one of the recipes mentioned earlier (water/soap, water/vinegar, or with essential oils). Shake gently.
Wipe Down the Mat
- Lay your mat flat.
- Lightly spray the mat surface. You don’t need to soak it, just get it damp. For rubber mats, spray the cloth first, then wipe the mat.
- Use your clean cloth to gently wipe down the entire surface.
- Wipe one side thoroughly, then flip it over and wipe the other side.
- Pay extra attention to areas where your hands and feet go. If there are small dirty spots, you can rub gently, but avoid hard scrubbing, especially on natural mats.
Rinse Lightly (if needed)
If you used a cleaner with soap or if you used a lot of spray, you might want to wipe the mat again with a second cloth dampened with just plain water. This helps remove any cleaner residue that could make the mat slippery. This step is less important with simple water/vinegar sprays.
Dry Properly
This is a very important step!
1. Use a dry towel to wipe off as much moisture as possible from both sides.
2. Hang your mat to air dry completely before rolling it up. You can hang it over a shower rod, a chair, or a clothesline.
3. Make sure it’s fully dry. Rolling up a damp mat traps moisture, which can damage the mat and cause mildew and bad smells (cleaning stinky yoga mat prevention!).
This basic method using your preferred yoga mat cleaning solutions is effective for keeping your mat clean and fresh most of the time.
Dealing with Tough Smells
Sometimes, basic cleaning isn’t enough to get rid of a strong smell. If you have a cleaning stinky yoga mat problem, try these steps.
Baking Soda Method
This works great for absorbing smells from many materials, especially natural rubber which can hold onto odors.
1. Make sure your mat is dry.
2. Lay the mat flat.
3. Lightly sprinkle baking soda over the smelly areas, or even the whole mat. Use a fine layer.
4. Let the baking soda sit for several hours, or even overnight. It will soak up the smells.
5. Carefully vacuum or brush off the baking soda. You can do this outside or over a trash can.
6. Wipe the mat down with your usual cleaner afterward to remove any remaining powder.
Stronger Spray
If a simple water/vinegar spray isn’t enough, make a slightly stronger solution (maybe 60% vinegar, 40% water) and add a few drops of tea tree or eucalyptus essential oil, which are good at fighting odor-causing bacteria. Spray the mat, let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then wipe thoroughly and dry completely. Always test a spot first!
These methods can be a big help when you are cleaning stinky yoga mat issues.
Deep Cleaning Your Mat
Every now and then, your mat might need more than just a wipe-down. This could be considered washing yoga mat, although it’s usually not in a machine.
When Deep Cleaning is Needed
- Your mat looks visibly very dirty or has stubborn stains.
- It has a persistent bad smell that won’t go away with sprays.
- You haven’t deep cleaned it in a long time (e.g., every few months or once a year, depending on use).
Bathtub Method (Use caution based on mat type)
This works best for durable mats like PVC. Be very careful with natural rubber or TPE mats, as soaking can harm them.
1. Fill a bathtub with a few inches of cool or lukewarm water. Never use hot water.
2. Add a very small amount (just a few drops) of mild soap, like Castile soap. Don’t use too much or you’ll have a slippery, soapy mess.
3. Place your mat in the tub. You might need to fold or roll it loosely to fit.
4. Gently swish the mat around in the water. Use a soft cloth to gently wipe down both sides. Focus on dirty spots, but don’t scrub hard.
5. Drain the soapy water.
6. Refill the tub with clean water or rinse the mat under the shower to remove all soap residue. This is very important! Leftover soap makes the mat slippery.
7. Repeat rinsing until no soap bubbles appear.
Shower Method
This is often a better way of washing yoga mat for rubber or TPE mats where you want to avoid soaking but need more than a wipe.
1. Take your mat into the shower or use a hand-held shower head.
2. Wet the mat lightly with cool or lukewarm water.
3. Put a tiny bit of mild soap on a soft cloth and gently wipe the mat down.
4. Rinse the mat thoroughly using the shower head. Make sure all soap is gone.
Machine Washing (Only for specific mats)
Most yoga mats (PVC, rubber, TPE) should NOT go in a washing machine. The machine action and hot water can damage or destroy them.
* Check the Label: ONLY machine wash your mat if the manufacturer specifically says you can. This is usually only for thin, woven cotton or linen mats without rubber backings.
* If Allowed: Use a large mesh laundry bag, a gentle cycle with cold water, and a very small amount of mild detergent. Never use fabric softener.
Drying After Deep Clean
Drying properly after a deep clean is critical.
1. Gently squeeze out excess water from the mat. Don’t wring or twist it, as this can damage the material. For rubber mats, roll it up tightly in a dry towel and press to get water out.
2. Hang the mat to air dry completely. This can take 24 hours or longer, especially for porous mats like rubber or cotton.
3. Make sure it is BONE DRY before you roll it up. If it’s still damp, it will get mildew and smell terrible. Hang it somewhere with good airflow, but away from direct sunlight (especially rubber mats).
Washing yoga mat this way takes more time and effort, but it can refresh a very dirty or smelly mat.
Important Safety Tips
Cleaning your mat safely means protecting the mat and yourself.
Test First
Always test any new cleaning solution (store-bought or homemade yoga mat spray) on a small, hidden spot of your mat first. Check for color changes, stickiness, or damage once it’s dry. This is especially important for natural rubber or newer mat materials.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
We’ve said it before, but it’s worth repeating. Bleach, ammonia, strong detergents, and most household cleaners are too strong for yoga mats. They can ruin the material, make it slippery, and leave behind harmful stuff. Stick to gentle yoga mat cleaning solutions.
Don’t Soak (Most Mats)
Unless you have a mat specifically made for machine washing (rare), avoid soaking your mat for long periods. This is particularly bad for natural rubber and TPE, which can absorb water and be damaged. The bathtub method should be quick, focused on wiping and rinsing, not letting the mat sit in water.
Dry Completely
This is one of the most common mistakes! Rolling up a damp mat is a recipe for mold, mildew, and awful smells (cleaning stinky yoga mat alert!). Always let your mat air dry flat or hanging until it is fully, completely dry.
Rolling vs. Folding
Most mats should be rolled, not folded, for storage after they are dry. Folding creates creases that can weaken the material over time.
Summarizing the Best Approach
So, what’s the best way to clean yoga mat? It’s a mix of regular, light cleaning and occasional deeper cleaning, using the right method for your specific mat material.
- For daily freshness: A quick wipe with a homemade yoga mat spray (water/vinegar or water/mild soap with optional essential oils) or a gentle store-bought cleaner after each use.
- For weekly maintenance: A more thorough wipe-down on both sides.
- For cleaning stinky yoga mat or visible dirt: Try the baking soda method or a deep clean using the shower or gentle bathtub method (if your mat type allows).
- For specific mat types: Always check the manufacturer’s instructions and choose yoga mat cleaning solutions that are safe for that material (PVC is hardy, rubber is sensitive to alcohol/sun, TPE is less durable).
Regular cleaning not only makes your mat a healthier place to practice but also extends its life, saving you money and keeping your favorite mat supportive for longer. Make cleaning a regular part of your yoga routine!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use Lysol wipes or Clorox wipes on my yoga mat?
A: It’s generally not recommended. These wipes contain harsh chemicals and alcohol that can damage most yoga mat materials, especially natural rubber and TPE. They can also leave behind residue that might be bad for your skin or make the mat slippery. Stick to gentle, mat-specific cleaners or simple DIY solutions.
Q2: My mat still smells bad after cleaning. What can I do?
A: This is a common cleaning stinky yoga mat issue. Try the baking soda method mentioned earlier to absorb deep smells. Ensure your mat is completely dry after cleaning. For very stubborn smells, airing the mat out outdoors (away from direct sun for rubber) can also help. Make sure you are cleaning often enough.
Q3: Can I put my yoga mat in the washing machine?
A: Almost always, no. Most yoga mats (made of PVC, rubber, or TPE) will be ruined by the washing machine’s action and temperature. Only machine wash a mat if the manufacturer’s label specifically says you can (this is rare, usually only for thin cotton mats).
Q4: How long does it take for a yoga mat to dry after cleaning?
A: It depends on the mat material and how wet it got. A quick wipe might dry in an hour or two. A deep clean (like the bathtub method) can take 24 hours or even longer, especially for porous mats like natural rubber. Always make sure it’s completely dry before rolling it up.
Q5: Can I use essential oils on my yoga mat?
A: Yes, in a diluted homemade yoga mat spray (5-10 drops per cup of water/vinegar mix). This adds a nice smell and some oils (like tea tree) have anti-germ properties. However, do not apply undiluted essential oils directly to your mat, as this can damage the material.
Q6: Are all yoga mat cleaning solutions the same?
A: No. They differ in ingredients. Some are natural and gentle (like those based on plant extracts or vinegar), while others might contain stronger chemicals or alcohol. Always check the ingredients and ensure the cleaner is suitable for your mat’s material.
Q7: How can I prevent my mat from getting so dirty and smelly?
A: Use a yoga towel on top of your mat, especially if you sweat a lot or use studio mats. Always practice with clean hands and feet. Air out your mat after every use by hanging it for a bit before rolling it up. Store it in a cool, dry place.