We hate to break it to you, but it's important to know that your yoga mat is the perfect environment for bacteria to build up. That's why you should take a little time to clean them regularly. In this article you will learn how to properly clean your yoga mat!
When you practice yoga, especially more intense styles like Vinyasa or Bikram, you're likely to sweat more on your mat, causing bacteria and unwanted odors to develop on it. However, regular care not only solves this problem, but also extends the life of your yoga mat and ensures that it retains its quality for a long time. Here are the steps you should follow to clean them properly.
How to clean a yoga mat – How to do it right
Cleaning your yoga mat and keeping it germ-free is a fairly easy task as long as you do it regularly and correctly. However, if you can't remember the last time you did it, this step-by-step guide is for you!
Some yoga mats are more porous than others. The closed cell mats are thinner and waterproof, so they don't soak up liquid as quickly. Thicker yoga mats tend to have an open cell structure, meaning they can absorb more fluid and trap more bacteria. However, no matter what type of mat you have, it is important to clean it both routinely (a light clean after each workout) and thoroughly (once a month).
For routine care after every yoga practice
Although yoga mat cleaners are available commercially, you can easily make the solution yourself using home remedies that you probably have at home. To do this you need:
- Mild dishwashing liquid
- Warm water
- A spray bottle
- Microfiber cloths
Clean yoga mat – Follow these steps:
- In the spray bottle, mix a few drops of mild dish soap and two cups of warm water (about 500 ml).
- Lightly spray the solution onto the mat and wipe the surface with a clean, soft, dry microfiber cloth.
- Dip a second clean microfiber cloth in clean water and wring it well. Wipe the mat with the damp cloth to remove any soap residue on the surface of the mat.
- Flip the mat over and repeat the process on the other side.
- Because it gets damp easily, allow the yoga mat to dry for 10 minutes before rolling it up and storing it.
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Thoroughly clean the yoga mat – do it once a month
If your yoga mat is open cell, you can easily use Method 1, which involves submerging it in water. However, if your mat has closed cells, submerging it in water is not advisable. In this case, you should use method 2.
Method 1: For mat with open cell surface
Use this method if your yoga mat can be submerged in water!
What you need:
- Mild dishwashing liquid
- Warm water
- Microfiber cloth
Clean your yoga mat properly– This is how it works:
- Add a squirt or two of mild dish soap to a tub of warm water.
- Soak the yoga mat in the tub and let it soak for a few minutes. Then carefully spread the soapy water over the yoga mat using a clean microfiber cloth.
- Empty the tub and rinse the yoga mat thoroughly. Make sure that no soap residue remains on the surface.
- Shake off the excess water from the mat as much as you can. Then let them dry completely.
Pro tip: If you take your yoga mat outside to dry, keep it away from direct sunlight. Yoga mats can fade and become brittle if exposed to the sun for long periods of time.
Method 2: For mat with closed cell surface
Use this method if your yoga mat cannot be submerged in water!
What you need:
- Water
- Microfiber cloth
- Distilled white vinegar
Clean your yoga mat properly – this is how it works:
- In a spray bottle, mix one part white vinegar and three parts water.
- Lightly spray the solution onto the mat and wipe the surfaces with a clean, soft, dry microfiber cloth.
- Dip a second clean cloth in clean water and wring it well. Wipe the mat with the damp cloth to remove any white vinegar residue on the surface of the mat.
- Flip the mat over and repeat the process on the other side.
- Allow the mat to dry completely before rolling it up and storing it.
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