How To Clean Yoga Mat
Let’s start from the basics what is a yoga mat? Why is it used for? and then how to clean the yoga mat? So basically yoga mats are fabricated mats that are used by people while practicing yoga. It is made in a way to prevent hands and feet from slipping during asana practice in modern yoga exercises. Yoga mats are also called sticky mats.
They are found in most of the yoga classes because they provide traction and cushioning as you pose. Most of the standard yoga mats are made of PVC Or vinyl. Some of them are made up of natural and recycled rubber, jute, and organic cotton or natural materials.
The main difference between the yoga mats and the normal mats is that the yoga mats are specifically designed for low impact exercises. Yoga mats are thinner and can be found middle of the firmness scale as compared to other mats. Angela Farmer is the one who invented yoga mats.
Yoga mats are used for practicing yoga. It helps you to provide grip during yoga. It also protects your joints from impact against the hard floor. You can do yoga without the mat but there are some pros and cons as well. It depends on the type of yoga you practice.
No matter how often you use the yoga mats it will get dirty, smelly, and sweaty. Sweat, skin and product oils, and dirt get absorbed in the yoga mat. All of these can make it difficult to practice yoga on your mat because this can make you slip from the mat. There are many different ways to clean your yoga mat like vinegar and some essential oils.
If you practice yoga then surely you have to clean your yoga mat as well. Cleaning your yoga mat regularly helps to remove dust, dirt, and germs and reduce the smell. The smell is the yoga mat caused by bacteria and sweat. While practising the sweat can build up in the mat’s materials. In the gym or studio, you might share your yoga mats with others. So it is so important for you to clean the yoga mat if you practice yoga or work out at home. There are many ways to clean the yoga mats. You can buy the products like yoga mat cleaners also but it is so easy and affordable to make a solution at home and clean your yoga mats.
There are several different methods to clean yoga mats at home. Some of them are mentioned above.
Things You Need To Clean The Yoga Mat:
The things you need to clean a yoga mat include the following:
- Soft Cloth
- Spray Bottle
- White Vinegar
- Mild Dish soap
- Tea Tree Oil
- A commercial mat wash
How To Use These Products
- Soft Cloth: A soft cloth is used to wipe down your mat. Microfiber cloths are used mostly. You can get this Microfiber cloth from amazon basics but any Soft cloth can be used for cleaning purposes.
- Spray Bottle: You can make a homemade solution and put it in a Spray bottle. Spray this homemade solution on spots to clean it and also use it for regular wipe-downs.
- White Vinegar: White Vinegar is used as a disinfectant. You can use this to clean and deodorize also.
- Mild Dish Soap: Mild Dishwash soap dissolves in water. It helps to remove oil and grime. You can use any dish wash soap but the Dawn and the Seventh Generation Dish Liquid are recommended.
- Tea Tree Oil: Tea Tree Oil is considered an optional solution to the Vinegar-based solution. The Tea Tree solution has antimicrobial and antifungal properties. You can use this tea tree solution for cleaning purposes to have antimicrobial and antifungal effects. The Tea tree solution smells good.
- A Commercial mat wash: If you do not want to clean a yoga mat by yourself then there are several alternatives available. The alternatives include mat washes. For example, Jade Yoga’s dedicated mat wash is used on JadeYoga Harmony Mat.
Time Taken For Cleaning Of Yoga Mat:
If you clean your yoga mat daily then this will take only 10 to 15 minutes per side. If your mat has any kind of spots then the spot-cleaning process will take 10 to 15 minutes for cleaning which depends on the type of your yoga mat. Drying time includes 15 minutes to an hour for drying. If you deep clean the yoga mat in the tub then it will take 20 to 30 minutes for cleaning and up to 24 hours for drying purposes.
How Often Should You Clean Your Yoga Mat?
Jana Long and Erica Whalen said that you should wipe down your mat at least every couple of uses. Jana Long is the executive director of the Black Yoga Teacher Alliance and Erica Whalen is the co-owner of Mang’Oh Yoga.
Cleaning the Yoga mat can help maintain a clean environment more specifically in shared practice spaces. Pathogens are mostly found on gym equipment. The Pathogens include the fungus that causes athlete’s foot or ring warm as well as the staphylococcus aureus and E coli that causes plantar warts. These viruses can be on yoga mats too.
Dr. Abigail Waldman said “If you have a history of skin infections including warts or fungus, just be “meticulous” about cleaning your mat after every use.”
Dr Abigail Waldman is the director of the Mohs and Dermatologic Surgery Centre at Brigham and Women’s Hospital.
She further explained that “Even months after being treated for fungus and staphylococcus infection, you can potentially reinfect yourself by stepping onto a dirty yoga mat”.
If you use your yoga mat regularly then it gets dirty easily so you have to consider routine wipe-downs along with monthly spot cleaning.
Manufacturer’s Cleaning Guidelines:
Before cleaning you have to check the Manufacturer’s cleaning guidelines first. Read the mat’s care instructions carefully that are written there. Yoga mats are made from different materials.
Most yoga mats are made from materials like natural rubber, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). The absorbance levels of mats vary. The most common DIY cleaning solutions are vinegar, mild dish soap, and tea tree oil. These DIY cleaning solutions are not appropriate for all mats.
When you are the only one who is using your yoga mat then it is not necessary to disinfect the yoga mat. Erica Hartmann said that “Microbes are everywhere”. She further said that “Do not feel like your yoga mat has to be sterile for you to stay healthy”. Erica Hartmann is an assistant professor of civil and environmental engineering at North Western University.
Common Cleaning Solutions
The most common DIY cleaning solutions are vinegar, mild dish soap, and tea tree oil. These DIY cleaning solutions are not appropriate for all mats. So disinfect Wipes or sprays are not recommended for use on yoga mats.
Don’t Use
Bleach, alcohol, and other harsh disinfectants are not used on the yoga mats because this harsh disinfectant causes damage to the yoga mat. If you want to use the disinfectant on the yoga mat then choose the one that is safe for skin contact.
Steps To Follow:
Here is the step-by-step guidelines for the cleaning of the yoga mat. These steps include:
Step 1 – Mixing The Solutions:
First, make a solution of vinegar. For this, combine the vinegar and water in a spray bottle. There is a variety of suggested water-to-vinegar ratios available in our research and interviews. These ratios range from 1:1 to 1:4.
We tested both ratios and did not notice any change or difference. You can add some drops of tea tree oil if you want to.
Shake the mixture well to combine the solution. Vinegar is considered a disinfectant but it does not kill any microbes. Hartmann suggests allowing the solution to sit on your mat for about 15 to 30 minutes before washing it off to maximize the disinfecting potential of vinegar.
Step 2 – Clean Up The Mat:
For cleaning up the mat spray the top surface of the mat with the clearing solution. Then use the microfiber cloth or any soft cloth to wipe down the whole mat.
Step 3 – Drying The Mat:
In the previous step, you wipe down the yoga mat with a cleaning solution. In this step, place the yoga mat flat on the ground and allow the mat to air dry completely. It will take almost 10 minutes depending on the condition. A moist yoga mat provides the best possible environment for the growth of bacteria and mold.
Step 4 – Repeat The Procedure:
After you are done cleaning the top surface of the mat repeat the same procedure on the other side. You have to make sure that no dirt from the other side of the mat sticks to the clean side when you spray and clean the other side of the mat.
Step 5 – Roll And Store The Mat:
When the whole mat is cleaned and dry then roll it up in a secure way and store it in a cool and dry place. You should avoid storing your mats in the sun because the UV rays can be harsh on the rubber and many plastic foams.
Removing Stains And Spots From Yoga Mat – How?
Use detergent to treat stubborn stains and spots. This method is suggested by a spokesperson from the American Cleaning Institute. The American Cleaning Institute is an organization that represents the Cleaning products industry.
To do this method, first of all, make a solution. Fill a spray bottle with one cup of warm water. Add 2 to 4 drops of mild dish soap. Shake the bottle well to combine.
Spray this mixed solution onto the stained or dirty area of the mat. Do not over-spray the mixed solution. Use the microfiber cloth or any soft cloth to scrub the stain. In the next step, clean the mat with a wet cloth to remove the soap solution. After all this place the mat flat on the floor and allow the mat to dry completely.
Deep Cleaning A Yoga Mat – How?
If your mat is dirty and bad smelling then soak the mat in a mixed solution. Fill a bathtub with enough water to cover the mat and add a teaspoon of dish soap. Soak the mat in this soapy water and let it sit for about five minutes. Use the microfiber cloth to scrub the whole mat and give more attention to the dirty spots. Remove the water from the tub and wash the mat.
Squeeze out the excess water from the mat till the water runs clear. After cleaning place the mat on the floor and allow it to air dry. Store this mat in to dry place. Avoid storing your mats in the sun because the UV rays can be harsh on the rubber and many plastic foams.
Cleaning A Mat Is A Washing Machine – How?
You can clean mats in the washing machine. Not all the mats but some of the mats can be washed in a washing machine. The rubber mats will absorb a lot of water and be slow to dry whereas the PVC, TPE, and other plastic materials stretch in the materials or the fibers of the mats are destroyed.
You have to check the instructions of the manufacturer if it is instructed that it is “machine washable” then go ahead and wash your mats in the machine. If your mat is not machine washable then avoid using this method to clean your yoga mats. Because this may damage the fibers of your mats.
There are several different methods to clean yoga mats. These include:
- Microfiber towels
- Lemons
- Tea Tree and Lavender Oil
- Castile Soap
- Baking Soda
- Witch Hazel
- Salt Water
- Orange essential oil and eucalyptus oil
- Vinegar
- Wipes
Method 1 – Microfiber Towels:
After using the yoga mat the first thing you should do is to clean your mat with the microfiber cloth dipped in warm water.
The Microfiber cloth can quickly absorb sweat and dampness from the yoga mat. If you want to use the microfiber cloth first of all dip it in warm water squeeze it and then clean the mat. After cleaning the mat allow it to air dry completely before you store it.
Method 2 – Lemons:
The lemon has citric acid. The acid present in the lemon is antibacterial and works so well for cleaning yoga mats. Add some lemon juice in a cup of water and clean your with it. The smell of the citric acid on the mat will be so refreshing and reviving.
Method 3 – Tea Tree and Lavender Oil:
Tea tree oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties. Lavender Oil has a soothing and relaxing scent. To make the solution of Tea tree oil and Lavender Oil, add 2 to 4 drops of Lavender Oil and 2 to 4 drops of tea tree oil in one cup of water in a spray bottle.
Shake this bottle well to mix the solution. Spray this solution on the mat. Clean the mat with a wet cloth and let the air dry completely.
Method 4 – Castile Soap:
Castile Soap is considered a nontoxic cleanser that will help to remove the stains and dirt from the yoga mats. To make the solution add 1 teaspoon of the liquid Castile Soap to 1 cup of water. Add this to the Spray bottle and shake this well to combine. Spray this mixture on the yoga mat. Let it set for 5 to 10 minutes then wash the soap with water and dry it with a towel.
Method 5 – Baking Soda:
Baking soda is a natural disinfectant. The baking soda will remove germs from the yoga mats. To make the solution add 1 teaspoon of Baking soda to 1 cup of water and mix it well. Spray this mixture across the mat and let it sit for 5 minutes. Rinse off the Baking soda solution of the mat with the wet towel and let the mat dry completely.
Method 6 – Witch Hazel:
It is considered a natural stain remover. Add two tablespoons of Witch Hazel to the half cup of water in the spray bottle and mix it well. If the yoga mat has sweat stains or dirt spray this solution to the stain. Use a microfiber cloth or a soft cloth to rinse off. Then the yoga mat will be clean and tidy.
Method 7 – Salt Water:
It has antibacterial and antifungal properties. Salt removes bacteria and fungi. This method helps to spin out the moisture. To make this solution add 4 spoons of salt to 1 cup of distilled water. Mix the solution well and spray it across the yoga mat. Let it sit for 15 minutes. Clean it with a wet towel and let it air dry completely.
Method 8 – Orange Essential Oil And Eucalyptus Oil:
The Orange essential oil has anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties too. Eucalyptus oil has a fresh smell and acts as a deodorant. It also has antibacterial properties.
To make this solution add 5 drops of eucalyptus oil and 5 drops of orange essential oil to half a cup of water in a spray bottle. Mix this solution well. Spray it across the mat and leave it out to dry completely. These oils will provide your mat with a refreshing and clean scent.
Method 9 – Vinegar:
White Vinegar helps in removing stains. To make this solution add equal parts of white Vinegar with water into a spray bottle. Add 2 to 3 drops of any essential oil to cover up the smell of the Vinegar. Shake the mixture well to combine and spray it across the mat. Clean it with the towel and allow it to air dry completely.
Method 10 – Wipes:
If you do not have much time to make your solution then you can use baby Wipes. The Wipes help to remove harmful germs and remove dirt stains. If your mat is used often then use Wipes to clean it. Wipe the mat on both sides and allow it to let it dry completely. The wipes will provide a fresh scent on the mat.
Whenever you proceed with any of the above-mentioned methods you have to remember one thing that is to perform a patch test to make sure that it does not damage your yoga mat or destroy any fibers. All of these are the best methods to clean your yoga mat from filthy and unhealthy conditions. Also, you have to check the instructions of the manufacturer.
One of the tips for cleaning your yoga mat is to clean it once a week to keep it free from germs and bacteria. You have to avoid wearing shoes on the yoga mat. Clean your hands and feet before going to the yoga mat and try to go barefoot on the yoga mat.
You have to place a towel on your yoga mat before stepping in. Avoid drying your mat in direct sunlight. Avoid washing your mat in the washing machine because this may damage the rubber or your yoga mat.
Clean Your Yoga Mat Fresh And Clean – How?
Here are some tips to keep your yoga mat fresh and clean. These include:
1. Using Plant-Based Cleaning Products:
You will have to use something to clean your mat that is safe, non-toxic, and non-irritating. Because your skin will come in contact with the products or things that you use to clean your yoga mat with. The best option is to choose a Plant-based cleaning product over one filled with harmful chemicals.
It is your choice to use a spray or a wipe. If you use spray then Vapor Fresh sports cleaning spray is recommended. It is considered the best yoga mat cleaning spray because it has everything you need in a yoga mat cleaning spray.
It has all-natural active ingredients. If you use Wipes to clean your yoga mat then vapor-fresh disinfecting gym Wipes are recommended. These are the best yoga mat Wipes because they use plant-based citric acid to clean surfaces and kill germs.
2. Hang your yoga mat:
The best way to clean your yoga mat fresh and clean is to hang it to air dry. The best way to air dry your yoga mat is immediately after spraying it. Your yoga mat smells bad because many people roll up their yoga mat after using it and place it in an unventilated place where it can get germs and bacteria until it is used again.
3. If your yoga mat smells bad then hand wash your yoga mat:
If your yoga mat is stinky and nasty then you have to clean it. Washing the yoga mat in the washing machine can be harsh on the fibers of the yoga mat. It is better to wash your yoga mat with your hands. Soak the yoga mat in a bathtub or a large container and wash it with the use of a sponge. This can clean and deodorize the yoga mat.
First of all, rinse off the yoga mat with lukewarm water. This can be helpful to reduce smell but if the yoga mat is still smelly then you can use a small amount of mild soap to clean it. After cleaning make sure to rinse off the soap and allow it to air dry completely.
You have to dry it completely. You can do this by placing a yoga mat flat on the floor in a dry place. Avoid drying the mat in the sunlight. After drying roll the yoga mat up and store it in a dry place.
Keeping Yoga Mat Clean For Longer – How?
You can keep your yoga mat clean for longer. One of the best ways to clean the yoga mat for longer is to lay a towel over it while exercising or practicing. Whenever you practice lay the yoga mat on the same side.
Cover the sides of the yoga mat by facing up with a towel. This will help you to absorb your sweat and body oil. After every workout or session wash off the towel in the washing machine with your workout clothes.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, first, we have to talk about the yoga mat and its purpose. So basically yoga mats are fabricated mats that are used by people while practicing yoga. It is made in a way to prevent hands and feet from slipping during asana practice in modern yoga exercises. Yoga mats are also called sticky mats.
They are found in most of yoga classes because they provide traction and cushioning as you pose. It helps you to provide grip during yoga. It also protects your joints from impact against the hard floor. No matter how often you use the yoga mats it will get dirty, smelly, and sweaty. There are many different ways to clean your yoga mat like vinegar and some essential oils used.
If you guys are here then you are surely searching for the best methods to clean your yoga mats. I have concluded the possible methods to clean the yoga mats. You just have to read the whole article to know about these. By cleaning the yoga mat you can extend the life of your yoga mat.
