DIY Natural Yoga Mat Cleaners – A Beautiful Way To Keep Your Mat and the Environment Safe!

As a yoga teacher who practically lives on the mat, I’ve come to realize how crucial it is to keep my yoga mat spotless—not only for staying healthy but also for preserving that vital grip.

Whether you’re moving through vinyasas or holding steady in your go-to pose, a clean mat truly elevates your practice.

Today, I’m excited to share my personal journey with natural yoga mat cleaners and why they’re a must-have for any yogi.

Why Use a Yoga Mat Cleaner

We’ve all been there—rolling out our mats for a peaceful practice, only to be greeted by the lingering smell of the last session.

Yoga mats, especially those used regularly, can become a breeding ground for bacteria, dirt, and odors.

This is particularly true if you practice hot yoga or work out in a shared studio space.

In my early teaching days, I didn’t pay much attention to mat cleanliness beyond an occasional wipe-down with an all-purpose cleaner.

But after noticing a decline in my mat’s texture and a rise in skin irritations, I realized something had to change.

It wasn’t just about cleanliness—it was about protecting my skin and maintaining my mat’s integrity.

Using a yoga mat cleaner not only keeps your mat fresh but also restores its soft and sticky texture, making it easier to hold those tricky poses without slipping.

And let’s be real—no one wants to be that person in the studio whose mat smells off.

Regular cleaning is a simple yet effective way to enhance your practice and keep your mat in top condition.

Homemade Yoga Mat Cleaner

After trying various store-bought cleaners that left me unsatisfied (and a bit concerned about the chemicals they contained), I decided to craft my own natural yoga mat cleaner.

My goal was to create something that was effective, affordable, and, most importantly, kind to both my mat and my skin.

One of the perks of making your own yoga mat cleaner is that you can customize the scent with essential oils that resonate with you.

I love the combination of tea tree and lavender—tea tree for its antibacterial properties and lavender for its calming, mood-boosting aroma.

Ingredients:

• 1 part White Vinegar or Witch Hazel (I prefer witch hazel for its gentleness)
• 4 parts Filtered Water
• 10-20 drops of Essential Oils (I usually go with tea tree and lavender, but eucalyptus or lemongrass are great alternatives)
• A spray bottle (preferably glass to protect the essential oils from light)

To make:

1. Fill your spray bottle with vinegar or witch hazel and filtered water.
2. Add your chosen essential oils and shake well to combine.
3. Spray the mixture generously over your mat after each practice.
4. Wipe it down with a clean cloth and let it air dry completely before rolling it up.

This simple DIY yoga mat cleaner has been a game-changer for me. Not only does it keep my mat clean and fresh, but it also adds a subtle, soothing scent to my practice.

The only other thing to keep in mind is how you store your mat. Find out more about that now!

How to Clean Your Yoga Mat

Cleaning your yoga mat regularly is crucial, especially if you’re using it in a shared space or practicing hot yoga.

I like to think of it as part of my post-practice ritual—just as I stretch out and hydrate, I also take a few minutes to care for my mat.

To clean your mat, start by laying it flat on a clean surface.

Spray the DIY cleaner generously across one side, paying extra attention to any spots that tend to get particularly sweaty.

Use a clean towel to rub the solution into the mat, working in gentle, circular motions.

Flip the mat over and repeat on the other side.

If it’s been a while since your last clean, or if you notice a buildup of grime, consider giving your mat a deeper clean.

Soak it in a bathtub filled with warm water and a cup of white vinegar for about 30 minutes.

Scrub both sides with a soft cloth or sponge, rinse thoroughly, and let it air dry completely—this might take up to 48 hours.

Remember, a clean mat isn’t just about hygiene; it’s about maintaining the quality of your mat so it lasts longer and performs better.

How Long Does Yoga Mat Cleaner Last?

One of the questions I often get is, “How long does the cleaner last?”

The beauty of using natural ingredients is that they’re long-lasting.

A batch of my DIY yoga mat cleaner can last for several months, depending on how often you practice.

However, if you’re using it regularly (which I hope you are!), you’ll likely need to make a new batch every few weeks.

The essential oils in the mixture are naturally antimicrobial, helping to preserve the solution. Just be sure to store it in a cool, dark place to extend its shelf life.

Incorporating a natural yoga mat cleaner into your practice is a small but significant way to enhance your yoga journey.

Not only are you caring for your mat, but you’re also creating a cleaner, more enjoyable space for your practice.

Trust me, once you start using a DIY cleaner, you’ll never go back to the store-bought stuff. Happy practicing!