Yoga is many things to many people – a way of life, a form of exercise, a stress reducer. However, in all these different uses, there’s one common denominator: a yoga mat. A faithful companion in every yoga session, it absorbs sweat, body oils, and grime. Therefore, having a clean yoga mat is important not only for hygienic purposes but also for the enhanced performance and longevity of the mat. This comprehensive, step-by-step guide provides several tips and tricks you need to know for cleaning and maintaining your yoga mat adequately.
## Regular Cleaning for Your Yoga Mat
Frequent and regular cleaning is good practice, which ensures your yoga mat stays in good condition for a long time. For daily or routine cleaning, you won’t need much more than a gentle, natural spray and a clean cloth.
DIY enthusiasts can create their own yoga mat cleaning spray using a blend of distilled water, witch hazel, and few drops of essential oils like lavender or tea tree oil. After a rigorous session, spray the blend over your mat, then wipe it down with a clean cloth. It cleans the mat and leaves a refreshing scent.
## Deep Cleaning Method for Your Yoga Mat
While regular cleaning is important, every once in a while, your mat may need a deep clean to remove stubborn stains or persistent odors. A deep-cleaning session will also help if you’ve been practicing hot yoga, or the mat has been shared or left unused for a while.
Prepare a mixture of warm water and a gentle dish soap or detergent, ensuring you have much more water than soap. Submerge your yoga mat in this soapy water and leave it for a few minutes. After soaking, using a soft brush or cloth, scrub the mat lightly, paying extra attention to stained areas. Rinse it in clean water till all the soapy residue is gone. Finally, roll out the mat and pat down with a towel to remove excess water, then hang it to dry.
## Choosing the Right Cleaning Agent for your Yoga Mat
A crucial step in cleaning your yoga mat correctly is choosing the right cleaning agent. Since yoga mats come into direct contact with our skin, using harsh chemicals on them is not advised. Non-toxic, biodegradable options are best, and these can range from commercial yoga mat cleaners to homemade solutions, such as the aforementioned blend of distilled water, witch hazel, and essential oils. Other natural cleaners include vinegar mixed with water in a 1:3 ratio or baking soda mixed into warm water.
## Drying Your Yoga Mat Correctly
Ensuring a properly dried yoga mat is essential to prevent a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. After washing your mat, avoid wringing it out as it can damage the material. Instead, squeeze the mat carefully to wring out the excess water. For thorough drying, roll your damp mat in a dry towel and squeeze again. Then, unroll it and hang it in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, which can cause your mat to fade and become brittle.
## Freshen Up with Essential Oils
Many yoga practitioners find that using essential oils not only refreshes their mats but also enhances their experience with a soothing scent. Oils such as lavender, eucalyptus, or tea tree have natural antiseptic properties. A few drops can be added to your DIY mat spray or diffused in your yoga space for a fresh and calming ambiance.
## Dealing with Challenging Stains
For stubborn stains that can’t be eliminated with regular washing, a mixture of baking soda and water can work wonders. Create a paste and apply it to the stained area. Gently rub with a soft cloth and then rinse with warm water.
## Be Proactive to Keep Your Mat Clean
To minimize dirt and germs, consider the environment where you’re practicing yoga. If you’re doing yoga outside, placing a towel over the mat can keep dirt at bay. Always wash your feet and hands before stepping on the mat, and use a separate towel to wipe away sweat during your practice.
Maintaining a clean yoga mat enhances your yoga practice and prolongs the life of the mat. Hopefully, this guide will help you keep your yoga mat in best form as you continue your yoga journey. Remember, though, that each yoga mat is different. Make sure to review your yoga mat’s specific cleaning recommendations as provided by the manufacturer.
