How To Clean a Yoga Mat – Ultimate Yoga Mat Maintenance Rituals!

You’ve probably been thinking about how to clean a yoga mat – yours in particular I’m guessing.

Are you ready to uncover the hidden secrets of maintaining a spotless yoga mat?

Well, put on your cleaning gloves and prepare for a journey that will ensure your yoga sessions remain sanitary, serene, and importantly….odor-free.

From downward dog to warrior pose, your yoga mat can get quite a workout, and it deserves a spa day too.

The Yoga Mat Saga Begins

Now, I’ll admit that my yoga mat had seen better days.

With every class I’d been to, it had collected sweat, dirt, and probably a few secrets from my clumsy poses.

I thought, “It’s time to give my mat some love and attention,” not to mention a good clean.

So, I embarked on a mission to demystify the art of yoga mat cleaning.

Why Bother Cleaning Your Yoga Mat?

You might be wondering, “Why should I even clean my yoga mat?” Don’t worry this was my first thought too, like do we really need to do this?

Well, picture this, your mat has been the backdrop for your stretches, your sanctuary for relaxation, and the stage for your awkward somersaults.

Over time, it accumulates sweat, bacteria, and dirt, becoming a breeding ground for germs – yukk!

Cleaning your yoga mat just tends to make sure you’re not rolling around on a mini ecosystem of bacteria.

Johanna Goldfarb, MD said “If you’re using your own mat, you really shouldn’t worry about contamination,” she says. “I’m more likely to clean it because it’s dirty than because I’m worried about infection.”

Plus, a clean mat feels better to practice on. It reminds me of getting into new sheets!

5 Easy Tips To Clean Your Yoga Mat – Infographic

This infographic will give you the quick and easy version of how to clean your yoga mat. If you want even more detail keep reading.

5 Easy Tips To Clean Your Yoga Mat Infographic by Rebecca Cornthwaite

9 Steps To An Ultra Clean Yoga Mat

Step 1. Gather Your Supplies

Step 2. The Pre-Clean Dust-Off

Start off by giving your yoga mat a once-over with a soft cloth or sponge to remove loose dirt and dust. You can buy some here if you dont have them already.

This step is like the mat’s spa day before the deep cleanse, and it will make the overall cleaning process more effective.

Step 3. Prepare the Bath

Step 4. Gentle Soak and Swish

Submerge your yoga mat in the bath of warm water.

Give it a gentle swish, as if you’re performing a water dance for your mat.

Soak your mat for about 10-15 minutes to loosen up any grit and grime.

Step 5. A Soapy Spa Session

Time for the bubbly bliss!

Add a small amount of mild soap, vinegar or a dedicated yoga mat cleaner to the water. It’s crucial not to go overboard with the soap, or your mat might feel like it’s auditioning for a bubble bath commercial.

Step 6. Scrub-a-Dub-Dub

Gently scrub your yoga mat with a soft cloth or sponge, focusing on any especially dirty spots or stubborn stains.

This is your mat’s deep-tissue massage, and it will thank you for the extra attention.

Don’t forget to flip it and give the other side some love too.

Step 7. Rinse and Repeat

Step 8. The Great Air Dry

Let your mat bask in the glory of fresh air and sunshine.

Hang it over a railing, lay it flat in a sunny spot, or drape it over a line.

This step is all about giving your mat a little vitamin D therapy, which helps to kill bacteria and any lingering smells.

Whatever you do probably best you don’t put it in the dryer.

Step 9. Roll It Up and Namaste

But Hang On, There’s More!

Here’s a little extra tip to keep your mat feeling fresh between deep cleanings.

After your session, give it a quick wipe with a solution of water and a drop of essential oil.

This step will not only help keep your mat clean, but it will also add a delightful fragrance to your next session.

A Fresh Start for You and Your Mat

Your yoga mat has supported you through countless asanas, vinyasas, and savasanas.

It’s time to return the favor with a deep and loving clean.

A clean mat isn’t just a sanitary surface; it’s a space where you will reach for a more peaceful practice.

So, go ahead, give your mat the spa day it deserves, and get ready for some seriously rejuvenated yoga sessions.

Your mat will thank you with every down-dog and warrior pose, and your yoga practice will be fresher than ever. Namaste, dear yogi!