Manduka Mat Care: How To Clean Yoga Mat Manduka Safely

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You ask how often to clean your Manduka mat and what the best way to clean a Manduka PRO mat is. You also wonder if you can use a natural yoga mat cleaner DIY. The answer is simple care after every practice helps a lot. A deeper clean once a week is usually best for most users. The best way to clean a Manduka PRO mat is with a spray cleaner and a damp cloth, without soaking it. And yes, you can make and use a natural yoga mat cleaner DIY, using simple yoga mat cleaning solution ingredients like water and vinegar, but always test a small spot first.

Your Manduka yoga mat is a tool for your practice. You want it to last. You want it to feel good. You want it to be clean. Good care helps all of these things. This guide tells you how to keep your Manduka mat clean and happy. We will cover everyday steps, deeper cleaning, and how to handle different mat types. We will also look at cleaning products, including making your own. Taking care of your mat is part of taking care of yourself.

How To Clean Yoga Mat Manduka
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Grasping Your Manduka Mat

Manduka makes different kinds of mats. Each one needs a little different care.

  • Manduka PRO and PROlite mats: These are made from a special PVC material. They are very dense and durable. They need specific cleaning methods. They should not be soaked in water. Soaking can harm the material. These mats get better with age, like a good wine. Proper care helps this process.
  • Manduka Eko series mats: These mats are made from natural tree rubber. They are more eco-friendly. Rubber mats need gentler care. They should not be left in direct sun. They also need to be cleaned a bit differently than the PRO mats.
  • Manduka GRP series mats: These are designed for hot yoga. They absorb sweat. They have a different surface feel. Their cleaning needs are focused on drying quickly and managing sweat.

Knowing your mat type helps you clean it right. Most Manduka yoga mat cleaning instructions are simple. But knowing the little differences is key.

Simple Care After Each Practice

This is the most important step. Do this every time you use your mat. It keeps dirt and sweat from building up. This is part of how often to clean Manduka mat – daily simple care.

Quick Wipe Down Steps

  1. Finish your practice.
  2. Let your mat cool down if you got sweaty.
  3. Get a clean cloth. Make it slightly damp with clean water.
  4. Gently wipe the surface of your mat. Wipe down the parts you used.
  5. Wipe away sweat, dirt, or any marks.
  6. Use a dry cloth to wipe off extra water.
  7. Let your mat air dry completely. Lay it flat or hang it up.
  8. Make sure it is fully dry before you roll it up. Rolling a damp mat can cause smells.

This simple step takes only a minute or two. It makes a big difference in how fresh your mat stays. Think of it as wiping down your shoes after a walk.

Regular Cleaning for Your Mat

Doing a bit more cleaning helps keep your mat truly fresh. This is often done once a week. Or do it more often if you use your mat a lot. This goes deeper than just wiping away sweat. It uses a cleaning solution.

Choosing Your Cleaner

You have options for cleaning solutions.

  • Manduka’s Own Cleaners: Manduka makes special cleaners for their mats.
    • Manduka Mat Restore: This is for PRO series mats. It cleans and conditions. It helps keep the surface nice.
    • Manduka Mat Refresh: This is for all mat types, including Eko. It cleans and freshens.
      Using the right Manduka mat cleaner spray is easy. Just spray and wipe.
  • Natural Yoga Mat Cleaner DIY: You can make your own. This is a great option. It uses simple, safe things you might have.

Let’s look at making your own.

Making Your Own Cleaner

A natural yoga mat cleaner DIY is simple. You need just a few yoga mat cleaning solution ingredients.

Basic DIY Cleaner Ingredients
  • Water (distilled water is best if your tap water is hard)
  • White vinegar (vinegar helps kill germs and remove smells)
Simple Recipe 1: Water and Vinegar
  1. Get a clean spray bottle.
  2. Mix white vinegar and water.
  3. Use a mix of about 1 part white vinegar to 3 parts water. For example, 1/4 cup vinegar and 3/4 cup water.
  4. Shake it gently.

This mix is gentle. It cleans well. The vinegar smell goes away as it dries.

Simple Recipe 2: Water, Vinegar, and Essential Oil

You can add a nice smell and extra cleaning power. Use simple yoga mat cleaning solution ingredients.

  1. Use the water and vinegar mix above.
  2. Add a few drops of essential oil.
  3. Good oils to use:
    • Tea Tree Oil: Good for fighting germs.
    • Lavender Oil: Smells nice and calming.
    • Lemon or Orange Oil: Fresh smell, good cleaner.
  4. Use only 3-5 drops for a small spray bottle (like 8 oz). Too much oil can harm your mat.
  5. Shake well before each use. Oil and water can separate.
Important Note on DIY Cleaners:
  • Always use a clean bottle.
  • Do not use too much vinegar, especially on Eko mats (rubber). Too much acid can harm rubber over time. The 1:3 or 1:4 vinegar to water ratio is safe.
  • Do not use cooking oils or fragrant oils that are not pure essential oils.
  • Do not use cleaners with harsh chemicals, bleach, or strong soaps. These can damage your mat. They can also make the surface slippery or sticky.

Using Your Cleaner for Regular Cleaning

Whether you use a store-bought Manduka mat cleaner spray or your natural yoga mat cleaner DIY, the steps are similar. This is a standard Manduka yoga mat cleaning instruction.

  1. Lay your mat flat.
  2. Lightly spray the cleaning solution onto the mat surface. Do not soak it. Just a light mist is enough.
  3. Let the cleaner sit for a few seconds.
  4. Use a clean, damp cloth (not soaking wet) to wipe the mat surface. Wipe gently but firmly. Clean the whole top side.
  5. You can wipe the bottom side too if it needs it.
  6. Use a separate clean, dry cloth to wipe away extra moisture.
  7. Let your mat air dry completely before rolling it up.

This regular cleaning helps remove dirt, body oils, and light smells. It keeps your mat feeling fresh and clean for your next practice.

Deep Cleaning Your Manduka Mat

Sometimes your mat needs more than just a regular wipe. This is when you deep clean Manduka yoga mat. You might do this if:

  • Your mat feels a bit slick even after regular cleaning.
  • Your mat has a bad smell that won’t go away.
  • You practice very often or very sweatily.
  • You haven’t cleaned it in a while.

Deep cleaning methods are different for PRO/PROlite mats and Eko mats. This is important because of the different materials.

Deep Cleaning Manduka PRO/PROlite Mats

Remember, PRO mats should not be soaked. Water can get into the dense material. It can be hard to dry fully. This can lead to problems inside the mat. The best way to clean Manduka PRO mat deeply involves careful steps.

Steps for Deep Cleaning PRO/PROlite Mats
  1. Lay your mat flat on a clean surface.
  2. Get your cleaning solution ready. Manduka Mat Restore or a gentle DIY mix (like 1:4 vinegar:water) is good.
  3. Lightly spray the mat surface. You can use a bit more spray than for regular cleaning, but still do not soak it.
  4. Use a stiff brush (like a deck brush or a firm scrub brush, but not metal or too sharp) or a textured cloth.
  5. Gently scrub the mat surface. Scrub across the mat, then maybe up and down. Focus on areas that feel slick or look dirty. The scrubbing action helps lift oils and dirt from the closed-cell surface.
  6. Dip your brush or cloth into clean water and wring it out well.
  7. Wipe the mat surface again to remove the cleaner and lifted dirt. Rinse your cloth often in clean water and wring it out very well. The key is to use a damp cloth, not a wet one. You want to remove the cleaner, not push water into the mat.
  8. Repeat wiping with the clean, damp cloth until all cleaner is gone.
  9. Use a dry towel (a microfiber towel works well) to dry the mat surface as much as possible. Press down firmly.
  10. Hang your mat up or lay it flat to air dry completely. This is a critical step. Make sure it is bone dry before rolling it up. This can take 12-24 hours, maybe longer depending on humidity.

This scrubbing helps the mat’s surface. PRO mats have a ‘break-in’ period where they can feel slick. Deep cleaning with scrubbing helps speed up this process. It is part of the best way to clean Manduka PRO mat and make it grippier over time.

Deep Cleaning Manduka Eko Series Mats (Rubber)

Eko mats are natural rubber. They are porous. They can absorb liquids. This means they can be rinsed, but still should not be left to soak for long periods. They also need gentler cleaners. Avoid vinegar stronger than 1:4 ratio, and test any new cleaner first.

Steps for Deep Cleaning Eko Mats
  1. Lay your mat flat.
  2. Prepare your cleaner. Manduka Mat Refresh or a very gentle natural cleaner (like water with a tiny bit of mild soap, or 1:4 vinegar:water) is good.
  3. Lightly spray or apply the cleaner to the mat surface.
  4. Use a soft cloth or sponge (not a stiff brush) to gently wipe and clean the mat surface.
  5. To rinse, you can gently rinse the mat under running water (like in a shower or with a hose outside). Do not let it sit in a tub of water. Rinse quickly but thoroughly to remove all cleaner.
  6. Shake off as much water as you can.
  7. Roll the mat tightly in a large, absorbent towel. Step on the rolled mat to press more water out.
  8. Unroll the mat. Hang it up to air dry. Eko mats can take a while to dry. Make sure air can get to both sides if possible. Do not hang them in direct sunlight, as this can damage the rubber.
  9. Ensure the mat is completely dry before rolling it up.

Following these specific steps helps ensure you deep clean Manduka yoga mat the right way for its material.

Removing Smell From Manduka Mat

Sometimes, even with cleaning, a mat can get a smell. Sweat, bacteria, and not drying fully can cause this. Removing smell from Manduka mat requires tackling the cause.

How to Remove Smell

  • Ensure Full Drying: Most smells come from dampness. Always make sure your mat dries fully after every use and cleaning. This is the number one step.
  • Aerate the Mat: Lay your mat flat or hang it in a place with good air flow. Do this often. This helps air it out. Do this especially after a deep clean or a very sweaty practice.
  • Use a Deodorizing Cleaner: The vinegar in DIY cleaners helps kill smell-causing bacteria. Essential oils like tea tree or lemon also help.
  • Baking Soda (for PRO mats): For stubborn smells on PRO mats, you can try a baking soda paste.
    1. Mix baking soda with a little water to make a thick paste.
    2. Spread a thin layer of the paste on the smelly area.
    3. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
    4. Gently wipe the paste off with a damp cloth (again, not soaking).
    5. Rinse the cloth often and wring it out well.
    6. Wipe the area thoroughly to remove all baking soda.
    7. Dry the spot very well with a towel.
    8. Let the mat air dry completely.
      Be careful with baking soda on Eko mats. Test a small spot first. It can be abrasive.
  • Deep Clean: Sometimes a deep clean is needed to remove smell from Manduka mat. Follow the deep cleaning steps for your mat type. The scrubbing action on PRO mats helps lift the source of the smell. The rinsing (careful!) on Eko mats helps wash it away.

Patience is key. Sometimes smells take a few cleaning and drying cycles to fully go away.

Cleaning a New Manduka Mat

If you just got a new Manduka PRO or PROlite mat, you might notice it feels a bit slippery. This is normal. These mats have a protective layer from the factory. You need to “break it in.” Cleaning a new Manduka mat is often about removing this layer.

The Salt Scrub Method (For PRO/PROlite Mats Only)

This is the classic Manduka method for breaking in PRO mats. It helps remove the factory finish.

  1. Get coarse sea salt. Avoid fine table salt or salt with iodine. Coarse sea salt works best.
  2. Lightly wet your mat surface with water. Just a light spray or wipe with a damp cloth. It should be damp, not pooling water.
  3. Generously sprinkle the coarse sea salt over the entire mat surface. Use a good amount.
  4. Spread the salt out evenly.
  5. Let the salt sit on the mat for 12 to 24 hours. The salt helps to break down and absorb the factory finish.
  6. After the time is up, wipe off the salt using a damp cloth. Wipe very well to remove all salt crystals. Rinse your cloth often and wring it out.
  7. Once the salt is removed, wipe the mat again with a clean, damp cloth to ensure no salt remains.
  8. Dry the mat very well with a towel.
  9. Hang or lay flat your mat to air dry completely.

After the salt scrub, your mat should be less slippery. It might still need a few practices to feel perfect. If it’s still slick, you can repeat the salt scrub or just keep using and cleaning it regularly. The best way to clean Manduka PRO mat when it’s new is this initial scrub, followed by regular use and cleaning.

For new Eko mats, they usually do not need a salt scrub. They might have a light factory dust. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth and air drying is usually enough before the first use. This is the cleaning a new Manduka mat step for Eko types.

Manduka Mat Maintenance Tips: What Not To Do

Just as important as knowing how to clean your mat is knowing what not to do. Doing the wrong thing can damage your mat, make it less safe to use, or shorten its life. These are key Manduka mat maintenance tips.

  • Do Not Soak PRO/PROlite Mats: We said this many times, but it’s crucial. Never put PRO mats in a bathtub or let them sit in standing water.
  • Do Not Put Any Manduka Mat in a Washing Machine or Dryer: The machine’s motion and heat will ruin your mat. The materials are not designed for this.
  • Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use bleach, harsh soaps, industrial cleaners, or anything with strong solvents. These will damage the mat material and make it unsafe.
  • Limit Sun Exposure (Especially for Eko): Direct sunlight can break down the rubber in Eko mats. It can also fade PRO mats over time. Always store your mat away from sunny windows. When drying, air dry indoors or in a shady spot.
  • Do Not Use Abrasive Scrubbers on Eko Mats: Stiff brushes or rough pads can damage the surface of the softer rubber Eko mats. Use soft cloths or sponges.
  • Avoid Heavy Oils or Lotions: Try not to get oily products on your mat. They can be hard to remove and might affect the grip. If you use lotion, let it soak in before practice.
  • Do Not Fold Your Mat Tightly: Always roll your mat loosely for storage. Folding can create hard creases that are difficult to remove.

Following these simple rules protects your investment. Proper Manduka mat maintenance tips ensure your mat lasts for many years of practice.

Putting It All Together: Your Cleaning Plan

Keeping your Manduka mat clean is not hard. It just needs a little care. Here is a summary of how often to clean Manduka mat:

  • After Every Practice: Quick wipe down with a damp cloth. Air dry fully. (Manduka yoga mat cleaning instructions step 1).
  • Weekly or Bi-Weekly (depending on use): Regular clean using a Manduka mat cleaner spray or a natural yoga mat cleaner DIY. Spray, wipe with damp cloth, dry well. (Manduka yoga mat cleaning instructions step 2).
  • As Needed (if mat feels slick or smells): Deep clean Manduka yoga mat. Use scrubbing for PRO mats (no soaking!). Rinse carefully for Eko mats (no soaking for long!). Ensure very thorough drying. (Manduka yoga mat cleaning instructions step 3).
  • For New PRO Mats: Do the salt scrub initially. This is part of cleaning a new Manduka mat. (Specific Manduka yoga mat cleaning instruction for new PRO mats).

By following these steps, using the right cleaners made with simple yoga mat cleaning solution ingredients, you will keep your Manduka mat in great shape. This leads to better grip, a fresher mat, and a longer life for your practice partner. The best way to clean Manduka PRO mat or any Manduka mat is with consistent, gentle care tailored to its type.

Remember to always fully air dry your mat. This simple step is key to removing smell from Manduka mat and preventing mold or bacteria growth.

Common Questions

Here are answers to common questions about cleaning your Manduka mat.

How often should I clean my Manduka mat?

You should wipe it down with a damp cloth after every practice. A deeper clean with a cleaner spray should be done once a week or every few practices, depending on how much you sweat and how often you use it. Deep cleaning is done less often, only as needed.

Can I use regular soap to clean my Manduka mat?

It is best to avoid regular dish soap or hand soap. They can leave a slippery residue on the mat surface. They can also contain chemicals that might damage the material over time. Stick to Manduka’s cleaners or simple natural cleaners like diluted vinegar.

What is the white powder sometimes on my Eko mat?

Natural rubber mats, like the Eko series, can sometimes show a white powder. This is often just sulfur blooming, a natural process in rubber. It is harmless. You can usually wipe it away with a damp cloth.

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

This is normal for some PRO mats. The salt scrub helps, but the mat also needs to be ‘broken in’ with use. The friction from your hands and feet during practice, combined with regular cleaning and thorough drying, will make the mat grippier over time. You can repeat the salt scrub if needed, but continued use is often the best way.

How do I store my Manduka mat?

Always roll your mat up loosely with the top (the side you practice on) facing outwards. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Do not fold it or store things on top of it.

Can I use essential oils in my DIY cleaner?

Yes, you can add a few drops of pure essential oils like tea tree, lavender, or lemon for scent and mild cleaning properties. Use only a small amount (3-5 drops per 8-16 oz bottle) as too much oil can damage the mat or make it slippery. Always shake the mixture well before use.

Why shouldn’t I soak my PRO mat?

PRO mats are made of a dense, closed-cell PVC foam. While the surface is easy to clean, if water gets into the core of the mat, it is very hard to dry. Trapped moisture can lead to internal breakdown of the material, mold, or persistent bad smells that you cannot remove.

By giving your Manduka mat the right kind of care, you ensure it remains a clean, supportive, and lasting part of your yoga practice. Clean mat, happy practice!