You’re not cleaning your yoga mat frequently enough, it is important to clean your yoga mat regularly to prevent grime and buildup.
The good news is that incorporating mat cleaning into your routine is as simple as following three steps. By giving your mat a quick spray with a natural cleaner after each use, you can effectively manage grime and prevent buildup, ensuring you won’t be left with a messy mat when it’s time for a more thorough cleaning.
The frequency of deep cleaning can vary from monthly to every six months, depending on how frequently you use the mat and how much sweat it accumulates during your practice.
To keep things uncomplicated, Vera Peterson, president of Molly Maid, suggests using a gentle scrub with a solution of soap and water to clean your mat. It’s important, however, not to oversaturate your mat in the process.
Here are the recommended methods for cleaning a yoga mat, as shared by cleaning experts and yoga professionals.
machine-wash tips for a Yoga Mat
When it comes to machine-washing your yoga mat, it’s essential to first check the label or packaging for instructions regarding its washability.
According to Peterson, if your mat is explicitly labeled as machine washable, this can be the most convenient method for a quick clean. In such cases, it is advisable to wash the mat on a gentle cycle without using bleach.
After the wash cycle is complete, promptly remove the mat from the washer and hang it up to dry. It’s always recommended to follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer for optimal results.
However, if your mat does not indicate whether it can be safely washed in a machine, it’s better to choose an alternative cleaning method.
Clean Your Yoga Mat with a Natural Cleaner
Steps to clean your yoga mat using a natural cleaner:
What You’ll Need:
- Spray bottle
- 1/2 cup vinegar
- 2 tablespoons baking soda
- Tea tree oil
- Water
- Microfiber cloth
Step 1: Prepare a solution by combining vinegar, baking soda, and a few drops of tea tree oil in a spray bottle.
Fill the remaining space in the bottle with water.
Step 2: Spray the solution onto a microfiber cloth or towel (some mats should not be sprayed directly).
Use a damp cloth to wipe down the surface of your yoga mat.
Step 3: Allow the mat to completely dry before storing it.
* Frequency: You can use this natural cleaner after each practice session to wipe down your mat or clean your mat once a week to maintain cleanliness and prevent the buildup of dirt and bacteria.
Steam-Clean Way for a Yoga Mat
Steps to steam-clean your yoga mat
What You’ll Need:
- Handheld steamer, garment steamer, or steam mop
- Water
- Drying rack
Step 1: Place your yoga mat on a clean, flat surface.
Use a handheld steamer, garment steamer, or steam mop to steam the mat in long, linear strokes along the length of the mat. Ensure that the entire surface of the mat is steamed.
Step 2: Flip the mat over and repeat the steaming process on the other side.
Step 3: Hang the mat on a drying rack or similar surface to air dry.
Make sure the mat is completely dry before storing it.
*Frequency: According to Kelly Turner, VP of training and experience for YogaSix, Steam Cleaning studio mats every quarter provides a deeper clean.
However, you can adjust the frequency based on the presence of discoloration, grime, or buildup. This can range from monthly to every six months.
If you use lotions or sweat heavily during practice, you may need to steam clean your mat more often.
Tip: It’s important to note that not all mats are suitable for steam cleaning as they may not be heat-safe.
Before using the steam cleaning method, be sure to check the label and care instructions on your yoga mat to ensure it can be safely steam cleaned.
*The information is for reference only.