Why Cleaning a Yoga Mat Regularly

Cleaning your yoga mat regularly is important for maintaining hygiene and prolonging the lifespan of the mat. Dirt, sweat, and bacteria can accumulate on the surface of the mat over time, creating a breeding ground for germs and odors.

Regular cleaning not only keeps the mat hygienic but also helps to remove any built-up grime and oils, ensuring the mat remains sticky and grippy for safe and effective yoga practice.

A clean yoga mat also provides a better surface to practice on, allowing you to focus on your yoga routine without any distractions.

DIY Yoga Mat Cleaner – Make Your Own Yoga Mat Cleaner

Homemade yoga mat cleaners are an effective way to keep your yoga mat clean, fresh and cost-effective. Some common natural ingredients that can be used example: white vinegar, baking soda, tea tree oil, and lemon juice.

Mixing these ingredients with water can create a gentle and effective yoga mat cleaner.  that can be used to wipe down your mat after each use. This do it yourself yoga mat cleaner is not only safe for your mat but also safe for the environment because it doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals that can harm the planet.

Additionally, using natural cleaning agents ensures that your mat stays free of any harmful substances that could be absorbed through your skin during yoga practice.

What are PVC Yoga Mats

PVC mats are the most common, affordable, and easiest to clean mat out there. When you get your mat, it may be a little smelly and slippery so, it is best to clean it before you take it to class. You can also clean in anytime you think it needs it. Here are a few tips on how to clean your mat.

Steps to Clean Your PVC Yoga Mat

    1. Most mats can be washed in a front loading washing machine or a top loader washing machine that does not have a beater bar. A yoga mat can damage top loaders with beater bars. Use cool or warm setting (not hot), with a very small amount of your regular detergent. Hang the mat to dry.
    2. If you do not have a front loader washing machine use your bathtub. Fill your bathtub halfway with really warm water, add a little laundry detergent. Swish the mat around. Take out of tub and wipe both sides down with a towel and hang dry.
    3. Most yoga PVC mats can be put in the dryer on a low setting. It can help make your mat a little stickier and softer too.
    4. Spray your mat down and wipe in between washing. Just put some water, a few drops of tea tree oil, lavender oil and orange oil in a spray bottle. It is a disinfecting spray that smells great.
So there you have it. PVC Yoga mats are a great mat to start with when beginning your yoga journey because they are cheap and easy to find.
Tip: When buying a yoga mat, consider choosing a mat in a darker color. Lighter mats can start to show their wear and tear sooner and look dirty even after you clean them.
Warning: Do not lay your mat out in the sun to dry it makes mat brittel.
Never workout on sweaty or wet yoga mats it can make them slippery.

 

There is no need to get an expensive mat when your first starting out. Eventually, you may want to invest in a more expensive mat and when you do, there are lots of uses for the PVC one. Look for a future post on how to recycle and reuse your old yoga mats.

How To Increase Life of Your Yoga Mat

To prolong the life of your yoga mat, it is important to clean it regularly and store it properly. Avoid using harsh chemicals or rough scrubbing materials, and instead opt for natural cleaning solutions like a mixture of water and vinegar.

After each use, wipe down the mat with a damp cloth and air dry it completely before rolling it up. When not in use, store the mat in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Additionally, avoid exposing the mat to sharp objects or rough surfaces that can cause damage. By following these simple tips, you can extend the lifespan of your yoga mat and ensure it stays in good condition for your future yoga practices.

Caring for Your Yoga Mat

When caring for your yoga mat, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can damage or shorten the lifespan of the mat.

  • Firstly, never put your yoga mat in the washing machine or dryer, as this can cause the mat to shrink, crack, or deteriorate.
  • Secondly, avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can strip the mat of its grip and cause damage to the surface.
  • Thirdly, avoid exposing the mat to direct sunlight or high heat, as this can cause the mat to fade or become brittle.
  • Finally, always store your mat in a cool, dry place when not in use to prevent it from becoming warped or brittle.

By avoiding these mistakes, you can ensure that your yoga mat remains in good condition and lasts for many years of practice.

Therefore, regular cleaning, proper storage, and avoiding damaging practices will help to extend the life of your yoga mat. Lastly MOST important is always read the manufacturer’s care instructions before cleaning or storing your mat, as different mats may have specific requirements.

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