Knowing how to clean a yoga mat is as important as knowing how to wash your everyday clothes like t-shirts, trousers, and leggings. Every yoga enthusiast enjoys the benefit of yoga- from enhanced blood circulation, weight reduction, increased flexibility, relaxed mind, meditative bodily state, etc. But are you willing to go through the stress of keeping your yoga mat clean?
It’s so unfortunate that a lot of yogis don’t know how to clean a yoga mat properly. Even if they do, they don’t take the time to properly do it because they’re off to one place or the other.
But what they fail to realize is that, as they sweat and allow bacteria buildup on the mat, they are not only causing damage to their skin and overall health but also cause wear and tear of your yoga mat. Your yoga mat won’t last and give you value for your money.
If you don’t want this to be your case, not to worry. Here are ways to clean your yoga mat and tips on how to maintain their cleanliness.
Ready?
Let’s go
How to Clean a Yoga Mat like a pro
It depends on the intensity of your yoga sessions. For regular yoga mat cleaning, it’s quite easy. Just clean both sides of the mat with a yoga cleaner or a mixture of dishwashing liquid and warm water. Spray it on the yoga mat and carefully wipe the surface with clean cloths.
Before rinsing, dip the cloth into the water and use it to rinse the mat. Once you’re done, lay the mat over a cloth hanger or shower rod to dry. Allow it to dry fully before rolling back up and leaving it in a safe place.
When do you deep clean?
Deep cleaning is required when your yoga mat needs more attention. Normally, it requires a harsher liquid but before you use one, you have to check the mat’s cleaning recommendations to find out if it’s safe for use.
Lots of mats are hand-washable in cold water and soap, while some can be washed in a machine. You only have to make sure that they are properly rinsed, then air dry it. If your yoga mat can’t be washed, wipe it with a vinegar solution.
How do you make the vinegar solution?
Mix water and vinegar in a ratio of 3-1. It should be one-part water to 3-part vinegar. The quantity depends on you and the size of your yoga mat.
When you’re done, clean it with a damp cloth and leave to dry.
Tips on how to clean a yoga mat
- Don’t leave your yoga mat out in the sun. Nothing damages them faster than sunlight (and accumulation dirt, of course). They will fade and become brittle.
- Ensure that your mat dries fully before rolling it up and putting it away.
- During your yoga session, ensure that you don’t put apply any cream or skin oil as they can transfer to your mat and stain it.
- Try to avoid harsh cleaners. This means that you must avoid scenarios where you have to deep clean. But if you must, ensure that the cleaners comply with the mat’s cleaning recommendations.
