Learn our quick and chemical-free ways How to clean your yoga mat so it will look and smell fresh Here are 5 easy steps to wash and clean your yoga mat at home.
The importance of yoga in today’s lifestyle cannot be denied. It can be a powerful tool for maintaining a healthy mind and body. A clean and well-maintained yoga mat is the foundation of a successful yoga session. Sweaty yoga sessions can leave germs, dirt, and bacteria on your mat that can harm your health. Therefore, it is crucial to clean your yoga mat regularly to keep it free of germs and unpleasant odors.
Tips Before You Clean Yoga Mat
While it may be tempting to use disinfectant sprays with harsh chemicals or rely on cleaning towelettes like Clorox wipes, opting for a natural cleaning method is the best approach for maintaining your yoga mat. Firstly, harsh chemicals can gradually deteriorate the mat’s quality and longevity.
How to Clean a Yoga Mat in 5 Steps
Here, we’ll cover a step-by-step guide on how to clean a yoga mat so that you can maintain a clean and fresh-smelling mat, and focus on your practice.
What You Need to Clean Yoga Mat:
- yoga mat cleaning spray
- handheld vacuum or a brush
- Water
- Mild detergent soap
- White Vinegar
- Soft cloth
- Tea tree oil
- Yoga mat wipes like Jasmine Seven Yoga Mat Wipes
Step 1: Gather Essential Cleaning Supplies
To clean your yoga mat, you will need some essential cleaning supplies. These may include a clean towel, mild detergent soap, a bowl of water, and a spray bottle of white vinegar and water. You can also add essential oils such as tea tree oil or lavender oil for a fresh and natural scent.
Step 2: Vacuum the Mat
Before washing your yoga mat, it is essential to remove any loose dirt or dust. Vacuum the mat with a handheld vacuum or a brush to keep it free of dust and debris.
Step 3: Wash Your Yoga Mat
To wash your yoga mat, soak it in a bowl of warm water with mild detergent soap. Use a clean towel to rub gently on the mat’s surface to remove any stubborn stains or sweat marks. Rinse the mat thoroughly in another bowl of clean water and let it air dry.
Step 4: Sanitize Your Yoga Mat
If you need to deep clean your yoga mat or you use it in public places such as yoga studios and gyms, it is necessary to sanitize it to kill any germs or bacteria. Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and spray it on all sides of your mat. Leave it for 5-10 minutes and then wipe it with a clean towel or cloth.
Step 5: Store Your Yoga Mat Properly
After cleaning and sanitizing your yoga mat, ensure that you store it properly to keep it germ-free for your next practice. Roll it up tightly and store it in a dry and cool place. Avoid keeping it in damp or humid conditions, as this can cause mold and bacteria growth.
How Often to Clean a Yoga Mat
If you practice yoga regularly, it’s recommended by experts to clean your yoga mat once a week. Luckily, you can safely and swiftly accomplish this task using a homemade cleaning solution.
If you have a history of skin infections or fungus, make sure to clean your mat thoroughly after every use. In such instances, it could be more convenient to consider purchasing a pre-mixed mat cleaner that is ready to use.
Final Words
Cleaning your yoga mat is an essential practice in maintaining good hygiene and a healthy mind-body connection. A clean mat can also enhance your yoga practice and make it more enjoyable. By following these simple steps on how to clean a yoga mat, you can keep your yoga mat clean and germ-free for your next yoga session. Remember to clean your mat regularly and store it properly to keep it in good condition for years to come.
FAQS
How do you clean a yoga mat without ruining it?
If your yoga mat cannot be submerged in water, you can try a simple and effective solution. Take a spray bottle and mix one part white vinegar with three parts water. Gently spritz the solution onto the mat and use a clean, soft, dry cloth to wipe the surfaces clean. This method allows you to maintain the cleanliness of your mat without any hassle.
What can I use to clean my rubber yoga mat?
To wash the yoga mat, fill a bathtub with warm water and add a couple of squeezes of mild dish soap. Submerge the mat in the tub and let it sit for a few minutes. Gently work the soapy water into the mat using a clean cloth. After that, empty the tub and thoroughly rinse the mat to ensure no soap residue remains on its surface.
Is it OK to wash the yoga mat in the washing machine?
You can machine wash the yoga mat but avoid using detergent. It’s best to reserve this method for occasional deep cleaning. Steer clear of cleaning with vinegar, alcohol-based substances, petroleum-based solvents, or highly concentrated essential oils.
Can you clean the yoga mat with wet wipes?
Although vinegar, dish soap, and tea tree oil are popular ingredients in DIY cleaning solutions, it is important to note that they may not be suitable for all types of mats. It is generally discouraged to use disinfectant wipes or sprays on yoga mats.
Should you clean your yoga mat after each use?
Devoting a few moments to wipe down your yoga mat after each practice, as well as performing a thorough cleaning on a monthly basis, holds tremendous value. This routine eradicates the accumulation of dirt and sweat, keeping your mat grippy and prolonging its lifespan.
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