Your fitness regimen is not as crucial as knowing how to clean a yoga mat. Nothing is worse than sniffing your mat when you’re in the downward dog position. In all honesty, your yoga mat may behave as a magnet for bacteria, holding onto germs even in the absence of any obvious dirt or smell.
You should immediately give your mat a quick scrub if you don’t regularly wipe it down. But don’t worry, you probably already have all the things on hand, and cleaning your yoga mat is a simple process. Here’s how to work safely and get rid of unwanted bacteria from your yoga mat without using chemicals.
Read also: How to Clean Brass so It Looks Shiny And New Again
How Often to Clean a Yoga Mat
Cleaning your yoga mat once a week is recommended, especially for those who practice yoga on a regular basis. Yoga mats are particularly vulnerable to the spread of viruses and fungi in common environments, such as gyms, where they are often used. Clean your mat after each usage if you have a history of fungal infections or skin issues.
Considerations Before You Get Started
Check the care recommendations provided by the manufacturer before cleaning your yoga mat. Yoga mats are made of different materials, such as rubber, and have different levels of absorbency. The cleaning materials you use may need to be adjusted depending on the material.
Although it may be alluring to grab a strong chemical-filled wipe or disinfectant spray, the best way to clean a yoga mat is natural, as chemicals can deteriorate the mat’s fabric. Additionally, keep in mind that the mat will likely be directly in contact with your skin and face. In addition to causing respiratory irritations, the chemicals may induce skin irritations if your mat absorbs them.
How to Use Vinegar to Clean a Yoga Mat
To regularly clean your yoga mat using natural materials, follow these steps.
Create a Cleaning Remedy
In a clean spray container, mix equal parts water and vinegar (which fights odors and has anti-microbial qualities). Pour in a few drops of tea tree oil, which is another organic antimicrobial and has a cooling effect. Shake well to combine.
Spray and Scrub
- Inside, place your yoga mat on a level surface.
- Give your homemade cleaning solution a thorough spray, paying special attention to any obvious unclean areas.
- Give the mixture ten to fifteen minutes to settle. If you give the vinegar some time to work, its disinfecting abilities will be at their peak.
- Using a soft cloth, scrub the mat in a circular motion from top to bottom.
- Turn it over, then proceed with the opposite side.
Hang to Dry
To allow the mat to dry on all sides without retaining moisture underneath, hang it. (A wise location? above your shower door or rod.) Before folding it up, make sure it’s entirely dry because a wet yoga mat might harbor bacteria.
How to Use Detergent or Soap to Thoroughly Clean a Yoga Mat
Rather than spot cleaning or wiping off an especially dirty yoga mat, try immersing the entire mat in warm water in the bathtub for a thorough cleaning. Make sure your yoga mat is wet before doing this.
Fill the Tub
One tablespoon of liquid laundry detergent or mild dish soap should be added to a large sink or bathtub filled with water. Sufficient liquid is required to completely submerge the yoga mat.
Scrub and Soak
Using a sponge, scrub the soiled areas while submerging the mat in water. To keep the mat wet, place something heavy (like a shampoo bottle) on it. After soaking for ten to fifteen
Rinse and Dry
After emptying the tub of its soapy water, thoroughly wash the mat with new water. To let it air dry, hang it on the shower rod or over the tub’s edge. Make sure it is totally dry before putting it away or using it.
How to Keep Your Yoga Mat Clean Longer
When practicing, the best approach to prolong the life of a yoga mat’s cleanliness is to cover it with a towel. To keep your mat clean in between cleanings, try this.
- Every time you practice, place the mat on the same side.
- Tassel the exposed side with a towel to absorb perspiration and oil off your body.
- Throw the towel in the laundry with your exercise clothing after each yoga class.
Read also: How To Properly Clean a Microfiber Cloth