Do I Need to Wash My Yoga Mat?
Quick answer: Yes!
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of strength, flexibility and calm that comes with a good yoga session. But between the hard-earned sweat and the dust and dirt from hands and feet, your mat can get pretty grimy. A dirty yoga mat can become a breeding ground for bacteria – not to mention a stinky distraction when you’re trying to stay centered. On the other hand, a clean yoga mat can be a great motivator, and even help you stay relaxed and present in your yoga practice.
How Often Should I Wash My Yoga Mat?
Ideally, you should wipe down your mat to disinfect it after each session, and deep clean it once a week—especially if you’re doing hot yoga classes or sweating a lot. At the very least, try to aim for a deep soapy wash at least once a month.
Signs It’s Time to Wash Your Yoga Mat:
• Your hands or feet are slipping in certain poses like downward dog.
• The mat is letting off an unpleasant odor.
• There are scuffs or dirt marks on the surface.
• You practice yoga at least twice a week and haven’t washed it in over a month.
Supplies You’ll Need:
• A washcloth
• A bowl or spray bottle
• Vinegar (white or apple cider work best)
• Dish detergent or soap
• Water
• Essential oils (optional)
HOW TO CLEAN YOUR YOGA MAT AT HOME
There are two main ways to keep your yoga mat clean—one is a quick method for day-to-day cleansing, and the other is a deep clean to do every week or so. These directions provide two ways to make your own cleaning solution, but you can buy a pre-made yoga mat cleaner if you prefer.
Quick Clean: Make Your Own Sustainable Cleaning Solution
1. Combine ½ cup vinegar with ½ cup water and mix it in a spray bottle or bowl.
2. Add a few drops of essential oils in soothing scents like lavender, peppermint, or eucalyptus, or energizing scents like orange or lemongrass.
3. Use a clean washcloth to wipe down your mat with the solution, paying extra attention to areas of the mat where your hands and feet frequent.
4. Leave your mat out to dry completely before rolling it up.
Deep Clean: Wash Your Yoga Mat With Soapy Water
1. Combine warm water with a few drops of gentle dishwashing soap to create a sudsy solution. A little soap goes a long way—too much and it could add a slippery film to your mat.
2. Dip a washcloth in the soapy solution and wipe the mat down, focusing on extra dirty areas.
3. Rinse the towel clean and wipe the mat down again to remove any remaining soap.
4. Leave your mat out to dry completely before rolling it up.
How to Dry a Yoga Mat
After washing your yoga mat, towel off any excess moisture and hang it out to dry in a shady, well-ventilated environment like outside or in a bathroom. Avoid hanging your yoga mat in direct sunlight as it can fade any design elements and damage the material.
Knowing When It’s Time for a New Yoga Mat
Caring for your mat prolongs its life, but a yoga mat isn’t made to last forever. You’ll know when to replace your yoga mat if the surface loses some of its bounce, looks faded, or the surface show signs of flaking and brittleness on either side. When it’s time to move on to a fresh new surface, try an adidas yoga mat. It’s made of lightweight, PVC-free material with small holes for bounce and breathability.
Now that you know how to clean your yoga mat, try some of our yoga tips or shop adidas yoga clothes designed for ultimate comfort and flow.