So, you've been practicing yoga for a quiet time now and you think your yoga mat needs a bit of care? After sweating and spending hours on the mat, you should remove all dirt and bacteria from the surface of the mat. Luckily, you're at the right place and we're going to show you 5 ways to clean your yoga mat at home.
It's important that you take care of your mat and clean it regularly (each month). Before taking further action, we advise you to check the cleaning instructions of your mat. The reason for that is a difference in materials and we really don't want your mat to tear down.
#1 Soap & Water
This one is the most usual one - use soap and water. We advise you to pick a mild soap and mix it with water in a bucket. Put the sponge into the mixture and wipe your dirty yoga mat. It's easy as that and it will take you up to 5 minutes.
Be sure that you splash your yoga mat with clean water after cleaning as you don't want any chemicals to stay in the material. The most important thing, if you're using this cleaning method, is to leave your yoga mat to completely dry. It usually takes 24 hours.
Did you know that this method of cleaning makes your yoga mat less slippery?
#2 Hot Tub Method
Sometimes you'll have to clean your yoga mat when the weather isn't favorable. If it's cold or wet outside, don't make excuses and still take care of your yoga mat.
The process is the same as the method above, but instead of a bucket, you just throw your yoga mat into a hot bathtub with water and soap. Leave it there for 10 minutes, and wash it with clean water.
Drying will take more time since you won't probably leave your mat outside, but rather indoors. Just be sure that your mat is completely dry before practicing again. The drying process can take up to 2 whole days.
If you're looking to get a custom designed yoga mat that you can throw in a bathtub, you're at the right place. Check out our high-quality custom yoga mats.
#3 Make a Natural Yoga Mat Cleaning Spray
What would be a better option to clean your yoga mat than making your own cleaning spray that will last for a while? At first, it might sound complicated, but believe us, you only have a few natural ingredients to make this spray effective.
Ingredients for natural yoga mat cleaning spray:
- 1/2 cup of tap water
- 1/2 cup of organic white vinegar
- 5 drops of essential oils (we love to use eucalyptus or mint because of the smell)
That's it. Mix it together in a spray bottle and you're ready to clean your yoga mat effectively.
Don't forget to check out other health benefits of essential oils. It's definitely a thing you want to have near you.
Apply a spray on the yoga mat and wipe around the mat. After you're done, we advise putting your mat in water for a while. Don't forget to completely dry your yoga mat before using.
#4 Washing Machine
Before throwing your yoga mat in a washing machine, check the instructions and details of your yoga mat.
Never combine yoga mat with other fabrics in the washing machine and always use a mild soap. Wash it with cool water without using a spin cycle. Don't forget to dry your mat after cleaning for at least a whole day.
#5 Use Commercial Cleaning Sprays
There are various options for buying commercial cleaning sprays. We really recommend making your own natural one since the majority of essential oils has antifungal features without causing irritation or allergies to the skin.
Most of the commercial cleaning sprays use bleach and alcohol. These two ingredients are very effective in killing the bacteria and fungus, but it can have a negative effect on the user's skin.
If you decide to use these sprays, always be sure that you clean your yoga mat with tap water before leaving the mat to dry. That way, you can be sure there is no more bleach, alcohol or other chemicals in your yoga mat.
If you have any other questions, feel free to send us an email or simply talk with one of us through live chat.