Are Yoga Mats Recyclable? How to Recycle or Reuse Your Old Yoga Mats

As yoga instructor for many years, I’ve spent countless hours on the mat. One day I was working at the studio and I wondered ‘Are Yoga Mats Recyclable?”

I fully understand the bond we create with our trusty support partner (yoga mat lol).

But what happens when it’s time to say goodbye to our much loved yoga mats?

Join me as we find out all there is to know about recycling and repurposin your yoga mat from my point of view.

How to Recycle Yoga Mats

Ah, the eternal question: Can we recycle our old yoga mats?

Well, as someone who’s had their fair share of PVC-induced headaches, I can tell you it’s not as simple as child’s pose.

Sadly, most modern mats are about as recyclable as a stubborn knot in your shoulder.

Option 1. Recycle Facility

So, the first stop on our recycling adventure is your local recycling facility.

Give them a ring and inquire about their yoga mat policy.

Trust me, I’ve made that call myself, and while not every center can handle PVC, it’s worth a shot.

If they do accept it, be prepared to shell out a few bucks, but it’s a small price to pay for a cleaner planet, right?

Option 2. Hazardous Materials Center

If the recycling center leaves you feeling a bit deflated, we still have more options to discuss!

There are centers out there that specialize in handling tricky materials.

I’ve personally found solace in these havens of recycling prowess.

Option 3. TerraCycle

And then there’s TerraCycle, the fairy godmother of recycling.

They’re based in New Jersey and I’ve seen them work wonders with items that seemed beyond salvation.

Jump on the website and have a look at what they have to offer.

One option is the Sporting Goods – Zero Waste Box, that you can buy and send of your yoga mat for proper recycling.

How to Reuse Yoga Mats

But before you bid adieu to your mat, let’s check into some alternative paths.

In addition to these ideas I’ve written about 21 Insanely Clever DIY Ideas You Need to Try to Give Your Old Yoga Mats New Life!

Donate Your Old Yoga Mat

As someone who believes in the power of giving, donating your mat to a worthy cause feels like a warm hug for the soul.

I’ve seen firsthand the joy a simple gesture can bring to those in need.

Upcycle or Repurpose Them in Your Home

Feeling crafty? I’ve spent many an afternoon transforming old mats into handy household items.

From makeshift doormats to garden kneelers, the possibilities are as endless as the stretches in your practice.

Buy a Green Yoga Mat

And of course, let’s not forget the golden rule: prevention is better than cure.

Investing in a sustainable yoga mat from the get-go is the ultimate way to sidestep the recycling conundrum.

Trust me, I’ve found my own slice of eco-friendly nirvana with mats made from earth-friendly materials.

As we bid farewell to our old mats, let’s embrace the journey of recycling and repurposing with open hearts and mindful intentions.

After all, every downward dog deserves a second chance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get rid of yoga mats?

There are many options depending if you want to reuse it around your house or to recycle it. As mentioned above, you can contact your local Recycle Centre or Hazardous materials Centre to get it recycled. If you want to reuse it – here’s some cool ideas.

Are exercise mats recyclable?

Exercise mat/ yoga mat – they’re generally very much the same. Check what it’s made of first, then call your local Recycle Centre or Hazardous Materials Centre to see if they accept that type of material. If not jump on the Terracycle website and they make it very easy.

Can you recycle rubber yoga mats?

Now, the good thing here is that many natural rubber yoga mats are biodegradable. So that means it will break down itself if you want to do so. If your mat is synthetic rubber then you need to also contact your local Recycle or Hazardous Materials Centre to see if they will accept it there.

How do you dispose of exercise mats?

There’s many options of disposing of your exercise mats. You can choose to take it somewhere that will recycle the mat for you. You could decide you want to reuse it around your home or garden with one of many ideas we have here.

Do yoga mats go in recycling?

Generally the answer to this will be no. Many yoga mats were and still are made from non biodegradable materials like PVC. Find out what your yoga mat is made from, then you can decide how you can recycle it properly. There are many places around that will possible take your mat for recycling.

Should I throw away my yoga mat?

If you have an old yoga mat that you want to get rid of, dont just throw it in the trash. It’s really important that you dispose of the mat properly because many mats are made from harsh chemicals. So, find out the material of your mat and then look into the options for disposing of it safely.