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Whether you’re working out at home or in a studio, one thing’s for certain: your yoga mat is bound to get dirty. Between the sweat and germs that can build up, you’re going to want to know how to clean a yoga mat. Even though a wipe-down after each session is a must, and deep cleanings can also help keep your mat in tip-top shape and prevent any unpleasant odors.
Before you work up a sweat, here’s your go-to guide for cleaning a yoga mat.
Meet the Expert
Christian Regester is the SVP, head of product at Manduka.
How Often Should You Clean Your Yoga Mat
If you’re regularly using your yoga mat, it should be wiped down after every use with a mat cleaner or DIY cleaning solution. For deep cleanings, yoga mats should be more thoroughly cleaned every week or two.
However, if you practice outside of your home at a yoga studio where your mat may be exposed to more dirt and germs, the front and back of your yoga mat should be cleaned more frequently, Christian Regester, SVP, head of product at Manduka, says.
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How to Clean a Yoga Mat
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Get a Cleaning Solution
You can get a specialized yoga mat cleaner or create your own. Some common DIY yoga mat cleaning solutions are:
- Water and white vinegar: Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle with a few drops of essential oil, like tea tree oil.
- Water and dish soap: Fill a spray bottle with water and add a few drops of dish soap.
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Spray the Mat and Wipe Down
Spray the yoga mat with the cleaning solution. Dry the mat by wiping it with a clean cloth. Then flip over the mat and repeat the process.
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Dry the Mat
Wipe the mat with a dry cloth or hang to air dry.
How to Deep Clean a Yoga Mat
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- Prepare your cleaning solution. You can make a DIY yoga mat cleaner (like the ones listed above) or use a specialized yoga mat cleaner or sanitizer.
- Let it sit. Allow the solution to sit for a few minutes. If you’re using a commercial yoga mat cleaner or sanitizer, follow the instructions.
- Scrub spots. With a clean cloth, gently scrub areas with dirt or stains.
- Wipe with a damp cloth. Dampen a cloth with water and wipe down the mat.
- Dry. Use a clean cloth to dry the mat.
- Repeat. Flip the yoga mat over and repeat the process on the other side.
- Dry completely. Once both sides are done, you can dry it thoroughly with a cloth or hang it to air dry.
Tips for Cleaning a Yoga Mat
- Always check the yoga mat’s manufacturer instructions prior to cleaning to see if there are specific cleaning instructions and if certain products or materials should be avoided.
- If you’re air drying your yoga mat outside, avoid putting it in direct sun, as it can damage the mat.
- Using a yoga towel can also help keep your mat clean.
FAQ
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The best way to clean a yoga mat is with a specialized cleaning spray or DIY yoga mat cleaner. Spray the cleaning solution on the mat directly or on a cloth and wipe it down. Then, let it dry before rolling it up and storing it away until your next yoga session.
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There are better ways to clean a yoga mat than using Clorox wipes, according to Regester.
“In order for a disinfectant to be effective, the entire surface needs to be visibly wet for a certain period of time (usually four to five minutes), which could be difficult to achieve with a small wipe of a large surface like your yoga mat,” Regester says.
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To remove odors from a yoga mat, you can use a specialized yoga mat cleaner or a DIY cleaning solution made with water, white vinegar, and a few drops of essential oil, like a tea tree. Spray the mat, wipe it down with a cloth, and allow it to dry.