How To Clean A Manduka Yoga Mat: Step-by-Step Guide

Cleaning your Manduka yoga mat keeps it fresh. It helps it last a long time. You need to clean it often. This guide shows you how. It covers all Manduka mats. This includes how to clean your Manduka PRO mat. We will talk about different ways to clean. We will cover quick cleans and deep cleans. We will also talk about getting rid of smells and marks. This guide will help you keep your mat clean and nice for yoga.

How To Clean A Manduka Yoga Mat
Image Source: cdn.shopify.com

Why Cleaning Your Yoga Mat Matters

Your yoga mat gets wet from sweat. It picks up dirt from your feet and the floor. This makes it a place where germs can grow. A dirty mat can also smell bad. It can feel sticky or slippery. This makes your yoga practice less fun. It can even make you slip and fall. Cleaning your mat gets rid of sweat and dirt. It helps stop germs from growing. It keeps your mat feeling nice. This makes your yoga time better. It also makes your mat last longer. Regular care is part of good yoga mat maintenance.

How Often Should You Clean Your Mat?

How often you clean depends on how much you use your mat. It also depends on how much you sweat.

After Every Use: Wipe down your mat after each time you do yoga. This is important if you sweat a lot. It removes sweat and light dirt right away. This quick clean stops smells from starting.
Every Few Uses: Do a deeper clean every few times you use it. Maybe once a week if you practice often. This gets rid of more dirt and oils.
When It Looks or Smells Dirty: Clean it any time it needs it. If you see marks, clean them. If you notice a Manduka mat odor, it is time for a deeper clean.
For PRO Mats: Manduka PRO mats are very strong. They need care too. Clean yoga mat sweat off them just like other mats. Their closed-cell surface makes cleaning a bit different. It does not soak up water or sweat easily. This is good for cleaning.

What You Need To Clean Your Mat

You need a few simple things to clean your mat well.

Clean water
A clean cloth or sponge
Manduka mat cleaner or a natural yoga mat cleaner
Maybe a brush for tough spots

Using the right cleaner is key. Some cleaners can hurt your mat. Manduka makes its own cleaner for their mats. You can also make your own natural cleaner. We will talk about both.

Choosing Your Mat Cleaner

There are different types of cleaners you can use.

Manduka Mat Wash: Manduka sells cleaners made for their mats. These are designed to work well without harming the mat material. They have different kinds, some are natural. Using a Manduka mat cleaner is a simple option.
Natural Cleaners: You can use simple things from your home. White vinegar is good. Water mixed with a little dish soap can work too for some mats, but be careful with PRO mats. Essential oils can add a nice smell and help disinfect. We will give a recipe for a diy yoga mat spray later.
Things NOT to Use: Do not use strong chemicals. Do not use alcohol or bleach on your mat. These can break down the mat material. They can make it wear out faster. They can also make the mat slippery. Do not put your mat in a washing machine or dryer.

Simple Steps for Daily Cleaning

This is how to clean your mat after each use, especially if you sweat.

H4: Getting Ready

Find a clean, flat space.
Lay your mat out flat.
Get your cloth and cleaning spray ready.

H4: The Cleaning Process

Step 1: Take your cleaning spray. This can be a Manduka spray or your diy yoga mat spray.
Step 2: Spray a little bit of the cleaner onto the cloth. Do not spray too much directly onto the mat. Especially with PRO mats, too much liquid is not needed.
Step 3: Wipe down the surface of the mat. Use the damp cloth. Wipe across the whole mat. Get the sweat off. Wipe away any visible dirt.
Step 4: If your mat can get wet (like some open-cell mats, but PRO mats are closed-cell), you can lightly spray the mat and wipe. But for PRO mats, it’s better to just dampen the cloth.
Step 5: Wipe the other side of the mat if needed. This depends on how you use it.
Step 6: Use a dry cloth to wipe off extra wetness. This helps the mat dry faster.
Step 7: Let the mat air dry fully. More on drying later.

This simple clean helps keep your mat fresh day after day. It stops dirt and sweat from building up.

Deep Cleaning Your Manduka Mat

Sometimes your mat needs more than a quick wipe. This is for when your mat has a smell, looks dirty, or has marks. This is how to clean yoga mat sweat that has dried on. It helps remove stains yoga mat might get.

H4: When to Deep Clean

Your mat has a noticeable Manduka mat odor.
You see dirt or marks that daily cleaning does not remove.
You want to disinfect yoga mat surface more fully.
You have used your mat many times since the last deep clean.

H4: Supplies for Deep Cleaning

Your chosen cleaner (Manduka Deep Cleaner or a strong natural mix).
Clean water.
A cloth or soft sponge.
Maybe a soft brush (like a toothbrush) for marks.
A place to air dry the mat.

H4: The Deep Cleaning Steps

Step 1: Lay your mat flat on a clean surface. You can do this outside, in a bathtub, or on a tile floor.
Step 2: Apply your cleaner. If using a Manduka Deep Cleaner, follow the directions on the bottle. If using a DIY mix (like vinegar and water), spray it on the mat surface. Make sure the mat gets damp, but not soaking wet. This is very important for PRO mats. Their surface does not absorb liquid easily.
Step 3: Let the cleaner sit for a few minutes. This gives it time to work on dirt and germs. Check the cleaner’s instructions. Some cleaners need more time.
Step 4: Gently scrub the mat surface. Use your cloth or sponge. Rub in circles or back and forth. Pay extra attention to dirty spots or areas with marks. For tough marks, a soft brush might help. Scrub gently so you do not harm the mat surface.
Step 5: Rinse the mat. This is a key step. You need to get all the soap or cleaner off.
- For PRO mats: Wipe the mat many times with a clean, wet cloth. Rinse the cloth often. You want to wipe away all cleaner residue. Since PRO mats do not absorb water, wiping is better than rinsing under a tap.
- For other Manduka mats (like eKO): You might be able to rinse them lightly under water. But always check Manduka’s advice for that specific mat type. Too much water is bad for some mats.
Step 6: Wipe the mat dry. Use a clean, dry cloth. Wipe as much water off as you can. This helps with drying yoga mat after cleaning.
Step 7: Let the mat air dry completely. This is very important. More on this next.

Deep cleaning helps refresh your mat. It helps with Manduka mat odor and makes the mat feel clean again.

Dealing with Specific Issues

Sometimes you have a certain problem with your mat.

H5: Removing Marks

Most marks can be cleaned during deep cleaning.
For tough marks, try a little extra cleaner on the spot.
Gently rub the mark with a cloth or soft brush.
Do not use harsh chemicals or scrub too hard. This can damage the mat.
Coconut oil can sometimes help lift certain marks on PRO mats, but test a tiny spot first. Wipe it clean very well afterward.

H5: Getting Rid of Smell (Manduka Mat Odor)

A bad smell usually means sweat and bacteria are on the mat.
Regular cleaning helps prevent smells.
Deep cleaning is the best way to remove smells.
Using a cleaner with vinegar or tea tree oil can help. These are natural things that kill bacteria.
Make sure you rinse the mat very well after cleaning. Cleaner left on the mat can also smell.
Make sure the mat dries completely. A damp mat will get smelly again fast.
Some Manduka PRO mats have a unique smell when new. This is part of the material. It usually fades with use and cleaning. The ‘salt scrub’ method for new PRO mats helps with this smell and helps ‘break in’ the mat.

H5: How to Disinfect Yoga Mat

Cleaning helps remove germs. Some cleaners also kill germs.
Manduka’s own cleaners are made to clean well.
Natural options like vinegar or tea tree oil can help disinfect.
To use vinegar: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray lightly, wipe, and rinse well.
To use tea tree oil: Add a few drops (5-10) of pure tea tree oil to a cup of water in a spray bottle. Shake well before each use. Spray lightly, wipe, and rinse well. Tea tree oil is strong, use only a little.
Make sure your cleaner is safe for your specific Manduka mat type.

Making Your Own Natural Yoga Mat Cleaner (DIY Yoga Mat Spray)

Making your own cleaner is easy. It is natural and often cheaper. Here is a simple recipe.

H4: Simple DIY Spray Recipe

You will need:

A spray bottle
Clean water (distilled or filtered water is best)
White vinegar or Witch Hazel
Optional: Essential oils (like tea tree, lavender, lemon)

H4: How to Mix Your Spray

Step 1: Fill your spray bottle mostly with water.
Step 2: Add about 1/4 cup of white vinegar or witch hazel for every 1 cup of water. So, if you use 1 cup of water, add 1/4 cup vinegar/witch hazel. This mixture is good for how to clean yoga mat sweat.
Step 3: If using essential oils, add 5-10 drops total. Tea tree oil helps disinfect. Lavender smells nice and is calming. Lemon is good for cleaning and smells fresh.
Step 4: Close the bottle tightly. Shake it well to mix everything.
Step 5: Label your bottle so you know what is inside.

H4: How to Use Your DIY Spray

Shake the bottle before each use.
Lightly spray your mat surface. Do not make it too wet.
Wipe with a clean cloth.
Wipe with a damp cloth to ‘rinse’ away the cleaner.
Wipe with a dry cloth.
Let it air dry completely.

This diy yoga mat spray is a simple way to keep your mat clean and smelling good using natural things. It is a great natural yoga mat cleaner.

Drying Your Yoga Mat After Cleaning

This step is very important. If you do not dry your mat fully, it can get moldy. It can also start to smell bad. This makes the Manduka mat odor come back.

H4: Steps for Proper Drying

Step 1: After wiping off extra water, find a good place to hang your mat.
Step 2: Hang the mat up. Do not lay it flat on the floor to dry. Hanging lets air get to both sides. This helps it dry faster and more evenly.
Step 3: Hang it over a shower rod, a fence, or on a drying rack. Make sure it is not touching walls or the floor much.
Step 4: Keep it out of direct sunlight. Sun can damage the mat material over time. It can make it lose color or get stiff.
Step 5: Let it hang until it is completely dry. This can take several hours. It might even take a full day or more, depending on how wet it got and how humid the air is.
Step 6: Feel the mat in different spots. Make sure there are no damp areas left.

H4: Why Complete Drying Matters

Prevents mold and mildew growth.
Stops bad smells (Manduka mat odor) from forming.
Keeps the mat’s surface feeling nice.
Protects the mat material from breaking down.

Never roll up or store a mat that is still damp. This is key for yoga mat maintenance. Always wait until it is bone dry. This is very important for drying yoga mat after cleaning.

Specific Care for Manduka PRO Series Mats

Manduka PRO mats are famous for being long-lasting. They have a special surface. This surface is ‘closed-cell’. This means it does not soak up water or sweat. This makes them very hygienic and easy to clean yoga mat sweat from. But it also means you clean them a little differently.

H4: Cleaning the PRO Surface

Remember, the PRO mat does not absorb liquid.
Do not soak a PRO mat. Never put it in a bathtub full of water.
Use a spray cleaner (like Manduka’s or your DIY spray) on a cloth, not directly on the mat. Or, spray lightly on the mat.
Wipe the mat well with the damp cloth.
Then, wipe it many times with a clean, wet cloth. This ‘rinses’ the surface by wiping away the cleaner residue. Rinse the cloth often.
Wipe with a dry cloth.
Hang to dry fully.

H4: Dealing with the New PRO Mat Surface

New PRO mats can feel a bit stiff or slippery at first. This is normal. It is part of the ‘break-in’ process. Manduka suggests a salt scrub for new PRO mats.

H5: How to Do a Salt Scrub

You need coarse sea salt.
Spread a thin layer of salt evenly over the mat surface.
Lightly spray the salt with water. Just enough to make it damp, not soaking.
Rub the salt into the mat using a stiff brush or cloth. Rub well over the whole surface.
Let the salt sit on the mat for 12-24 hours.
Wipe off the salt completely with a clean cloth.
Rinse the mat surface well by wiping many times with a wet cloth.
Dry the mat completely by hanging it.

This salt scrub helps ‘break in’ the surface. It makes it less slippery. It also helps remove any new mat smell. This is a special cleaning step for new PRO mats before you even clean yoga mat sweat from them the first time.

Yoga Mat Maintenance Tips Beyond Cleaning

Cleaning is a big part of keeping your mat nice. But other things help too.

Store It Right: Roll your mat loosely. Store it in a cool, dry place. Keep it away from direct sunlight. Do not put heavy things on top of it.
Use a Towel: Using a yoga towel on top of your mat helps. It soaks up sweat. This means less sweat gets on your mat. Your mat stays cleaner longer. You do not have to clean yoga mat sweat from the mat as often.
Be Gentle: Do not wear shoes on your mat. Be careful with sharp things near it. This prevents damage.
Roll Loosely: When you finish practice, roll your mat loosely. This lets it air out a bit before storing. Especially if you had a sweaty practice.
Check for Wear: Look at your mat sometimes. See if it has worn spots or damage. Good maintenance includes knowing when it might be time for a new mat.

Following these tips along with regular cleaning keeps your Manduka mat in good shape. It makes your yoga practice safer and cleaner. Good yoga mat maintenance makes your investment last.

Comparing Cleaning Methods

Let’s look at the different cleaning methods quickly.

Method	Frequency	What it does	Mat Type Focus	Key Points
Daily Wipe Down	After each sweaty use	Removes sweat, light dirt, prevents smells	All Manduka Mats	Use damp cloth with light cleaner. Wipe & dry.
Deep Cleaning	Every few uses/As needed	Removes deep dirt, oils, helps with smell/stains	All Manduka Mats (Careful rinsing PRO)	Spray, let sit, scrub gently, rinse well, dry fully.
Salt Scrub	Once for new PRO	Breaks in surface, helps with new smell, grip	New Manduka PRO Mats	Salt, light water, scrub, sit, wipe, rinse, dry.
Using Manduka Cleaner	Any time	Works well, designed for the mats	All Manduka Mats	Follow bottle directions. Safe option.
Using DIY Cleaner	Any time	Natural option, can disinfect, saves money	All Manduka Mats (Check recipe)	Make spray, spray cloth or lightly mat, wipe, rinse, dry.

Each method has its place in keeping your mat clean and ready. Knowing how to clean Manduka PRO mat or any other Manduka mat helps you care for it well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions people ask about cleaning Manduka mats.

H4: Can I use other types of cleaners not mentioned here?

It is best to use cleaners made for yoga mats. Or use simple natural ones like vinegar or recommended DIY sprays. Avoid harsh chemicals, alcohol, and bleach. These can damage your mat. If you are not sure, test a tiny, hidden spot on your mat first.

H4: How long does it take for a Manduka PRO mat to break in?

The ‘break-in’ time varies. It depends on how often you use it and if you do the salt scrub. Some people feel it is ready after the salt scrub. For others, it can take a few weeks or months of regular use. Regular cleaning and wiping sweat off helps the process too.

H4: What if my mat still smells after cleaning?

Make sure you are rinsing all cleaner residue off. Sometimes cleaner left on the mat can smell. Also, make sure the mat is completely, totally dry before you roll it up. A tiny bit of dampness can lead to big smells. If the smell is still there, try another deep clean. Focus on rinsing and drying. Using a cleaner with natural disinfectants like vinegar or tea tree oil might help more.

H4: Is it okay to roll my mat up wet if I air it out later?

No, it is not okay. Even rolling it up for a short time while wet can trap moisture. This can lead to mold and smell. Always wait until your mat is fully dry before rolling and storing it.

H4: My PRO mat is still slippery after the salt scrub and use. What can I do?

Keep using and cleaning it. Sometimes the break-in takes time. Make sure you are not using too much cleaner or moisturizer on it. Also, use a yoga towel on top for practices where you sweat a lot. This helps soak up sweat and can give you better grip.

H4: How often should I disinfect my yoga mat?

Regular cleaning removes most germs. You do not need to disinfect it every single time you use it. Deep cleaning with a disinfecting agent (like vinegar or tea tree oil spray) once a week or every few weeks is usually enough. This depends on how much you sweat and where you practice.

H4: Can I clean my mat in the shower with me?

It is better to clean your mat separately. You need to be able to lay it flat or handle it well to rinse and wipe properly. Cleaning products you use on yourself are not good for your mat. Avoid getting soap and shampoo on your mat.

H4: What if I get a big stain on my mat?

Try to clean it right away. Use a little extra cleaner on the spot during deep cleaning. Gently scrub with a soft cloth or brush. If it is an oil stain on a PRO mat, a little baking soda might help absorb some oil before cleaning. Test this in a small spot first. Removing stains yoga mat can get takes time and patience.

Cleaning your Manduka mat is simple with the right steps. It keeps your mat clean, fresh, and ready for your next yoga time. Follow these steps for how to clean your Manduka yoga mat, including your PRO mat. Practice good yoga mat maintenance. Enjoy your clean mat!