The Best Ways to Clean & Deodorize Yoga Mats
Yoga requires a specific set of gear. For one thing, you want the proper clothing – something that’s soft, flexible, and comfortable.
You’ll also need a yoga mat. Not only will they provide cushioning but they’ll also help prevent the possibility of slipping. It’ll also mark the space as yours so that no one else will be moving in the same area.
What’s the best way to deep clean a yoga mat? What kind of cleaning solution should you use? Can you use a few drops of tea tree oil? Find the answers here!
How to Choose a Yoga Mat
There are several things that you want to consider when you’re picking out a yoga mat. Here are a few things to keep in mind.
Grip
Grip is super important when it comes to doing yoga – it’s the thing that will prevent you from slipping when you’re doing various poses. Not only that but it’ll also provide you with balance, stability, and leverage.
Material
Most yoga mats are made of materials such as PVC, TPE, and polyurethane as they are cheap. However, they’re not the best for the environment. Consider choosing a brand that uses natural materials like rubber or cork instead.
Cushioning
Pay attention to how thick the mat is—that will determine the amount of cushioning that it provides. For instance, a thin yoga mat can be tough on your joints. At the same time, however, too thick of a mat can affect its portability.
Portability
Do you practice at a yoga studio? If so, you’ll want to get something that’s portable. Choose something easy to roll and store. For instance, some mats come with a strap that allows you to carry it over your shoulder.
Preventing a Dirty Yoga Mat
Yoga mats need to be cleaned regularly, especially if you use it every day. This makes sense when you think about it – after all, it’ll probably be exposed to your sweat.
Not only is it a hygiene problem but the moisture can also increase the risk of slips while you’re doing the different poses.
And if you use your mat outdoors, it can also accumulate dirt and mud, which can easily transfer onto your clothes.
That’s why deep cleaning your yoga mat is so important.
How to Clean Yoga Mat – Best Cleaning Instructions
Here are a few ways that you can keep your yoga mat clean.
Clean Your Yoga Mat In the Washing Machine
Some yoga mats are machine washable. When in doubt, check the care tag label – there should be one on the side of the product.
Step 1: Put It Into the Washer
Place the yoga mat in the washing machine. Try to arrange it as evenly as possible (avoid uneven folds or bumps) – that will prevent it from being tossed around during the cycle.
Step 2: Add Detergent
Add one scoop of ACTIVE Detergent to the washer. Avoid using fabric softener or bleach.
Step 3: Start a Wash Cycle
Choose a gentle setting and run a wash cycle with cold water.
Step 4: Let It Air Dry
Take the yoga mat out once it’s finished and lay it flat to dry in a well-ventilated area. Wait until it’s completely dry before using it again.
Do not put the mat in the dryer or under direct sunlight as the heat can cause the material to warp.
How to Clean Yoga Mats by Hand
You can also wash your yoga mats by hand in the bathtub.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Water
- Damp cloth
- Clean towel
Step 1:
Fill a bathtub with warm water and add a bit of ACTIVE Detergent to create a cleaning solution.
Step 2:
Place your yoga mat in the bathtub and make sure it’s completely saturated with the detergent solution. Press down on the mat with your hand, if necessary.
Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
Step 3:
After soaking, wipe down each side of the yoga mat with a damp cloth. Pay extra attention to the areas where your hands and feet touch the most.
Step 4:
Rinse the detergent off with clean water. Continue until the water runs clear.
Step 5:
Remove the mat from the bathtub and lay it on a flat surface to dry. You can also use a clean towel to help remove some of the leftover moisture.
Never twist or wring out the mat with your hands as that can cause it to tear or warp.
Maintaining Your Yoga Mat Regularly
Cleaning your mat is important but so is regular maintenance. The easiest way to do that is by using yoga mat wipes.
Supplies:
- Sanitizing wipes
- Paper towels
Step 1:
Wipe both sides of the yoga mat with sanitizing wipes.
Step 2:
Wipe the mat dry with paper towels. Make sure it’s completely dry before using it again.
Preventing Your Yoga Mat From Getting Dirty – Deodorizing Tips
Here are some things that you can do to prevent odors from developing.
Always Wash Your Hands and Feet Before Practice
It’s a good idea to wash your hands and feet with soap before yoga practice. By keeping your skin clean, you’ll be able to minimize the amount of germs that will be on the mat.
Not only that but you’ll be able to get rid of any cream or lotion that might otherwise cause slips. Don’t have access to a sink? Consider wiping your hands and feet down with baby wipes before starting your session.
Wipe Your Mat After Every Use
Make a habit of wiping your yoga mat after each yoga session (even if you have a closed-cell yoga mat). It’s one of the easiest ways that you can keep it free of dirt, sweat, and oils.
Place a Towel on the Mat During Your Session
Do you tend to sweat a lot during your yoga session? If so, you might want to place a clean towel on top of your mat—that way, you won’t have to worry about the sweat going onto the mat (it will be absorbed by the towel)!
Air Out Your Yoga Mat
Instead of rolling up your yoga mat at home, lay it flat so that it can air out – that will allow any remaining moisture to evaporate. You can also place it over a drying rack in the laundry room.
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