Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Why Cleaning Your Mat Matters
- What to Clean a Yoga Mat With: The Best Solutions
- Cleaning by Mat Type
- Step-by-Step: Daily Mat Maintenance
- Deep Cleaning: When and How
- What to Avoid: Common Cleaning Mistakes
- The "Slippery New Mat" Myth: Salt Scrubs
- Maintaining Your Props and Accessories
- Why Quality and Sustainability Matter in Mat Care
- Summary of Best Practices
- FAQ
Introduction
We have all been there: halfway through a downward-facing dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana), you feel your palms starting to slide. Perhaps it is the lingering humidity from a morning hot yoga session or just the natural buildup of dust and skin oils from daily practice. A slippery mat is more than just a distraction; it can interrupt the flow of your movement and prevent you from feeling grounded. Keeping your gear clean is the most effective way to ensure your mat remains a safe, grippy sanctuary for your practice.
At Yoga Design Lab, we believe that high-performance gear should be as durable as it is beautiful. Whether you are flowing on our signature Combo Yoga Mat or finding balance on a sustainable cork surface, knowing exactly what to clean a yoga mat with is essential for the longevity of the materials. This guide will walk you through the best cleaning solutions for every mat type, which household ingredients to avoid, and how to maintain that fresh-out-of-the-box grip for years to come.
Why Cleaning Your Mat Matters
A yoga mat is a porous or semi-porous surface that spends a lot of time in direct contact with your skin. Every time we step onto the mat, we transfer sweat, natural body oils, and lotions onto the surface. Over time, these elements can fill the microscopic textures of the mat that provide traction. If you do not clean these away, your mat will gradually lose its grip, making poses feel less stable.
Beyond performance, hygiene is a primary concern. Bacteria and fungi thrive in warm, damp environments—exactly the conditions created during a vigorous Vinyasa or hot yoga session. Regular cleaning prevents odors from developing and keeps your practice space fresh. Choosing the right cleaning agent ensures that you are sanitizing the surface without degrading the natural tree rubber or recycled materials that make up your gear.
What to Clean a Yoga Mat With: The Best Solutions
The solution you choose depends largely on the material of your mat. Not all cleaners are created equal, and some can actually cause more harm than good if used on the wrong surface.
Natural Vinegar and Water Solution
For many practitioners, a simple DIY solution is the most effective and eco-friendly choice. White vinegar is a natural disinfectant with antimicrobial properties. It is excellent at breaking down the oils that cause slipping.
To make a standard mat refresh spray:
- Mix three parts filtered water with one part white distilled vinegar.
- Add 2–3 drops of an essential oil like tea tree (for its antifungal properties) or lavender (for a calming scent).
- Spray lightly and wipe down with a soft cloth.
Mild Dish Soap
For a deeper clean, especially after a particularly sweaty session, a very small amount of mild, clear dish soap can work wonders. Use a soap that is free of heavy fragrances, dyes, or moisturizing "hand-softening" agents, as these can leave a slick residue on the mat.
Professional Yoga Mat Washes
If you prefer a pre-made solution, look for the best yoga mat cleaner designed for natural materials. Many of these formulas are vegan and biodegradable, aligning with our commitment to sustainability at YDL. These sprays are usually pH-balanced to ensure they do not dry out natural rubber or damage the artistic prints on the surface.
Witch Hazel
If the smell of vinegar is too strong for you, witch hazel is a fantastic alternative. It acts as a gentle astringent and sanitizer. Mix one part witch hazel with three parts water for a gentle, effective daily cleaner.
Quick Answer: Clean your yoga mat with a 3:1 mixture of water and white vinegar or a mild, oil-free dish soap. Always match the cleaner to your mat material—use only water or specialized sprays for cork, and avoid harsh chemicals on natural rubber.
Cleaning by Mat Type
Different materials require different levels of care. Using a cleaner intended for a synthetic PVC mat on a natural rubber mat can lead to premature crumbling or fading.
The Combo Mat (Microfiber Surface)
Our signature Combo Mat features a top layer made from recycled PET microfiber bonded to a natural tree rubber base. Because the top layer acts like a towel, it is designed to absorb moisture and provide more grip as it gets wet.
For daily maintenance, a light spray of water and vinegar is sufficient. However, because it is a textile surface, the Combo Mat can be deep-cleaned more thoroughly than most. It is machine washable on a gentle, cold-cycle setting. Use a mild detergent and avoid bleach. Never put this mat in the dryer; instead, hang it to air dry.
Cork Yoga Mats
Cork is one of the most sustainable and naturally hygienic materials available. It contains suberin, a waxy substance that makes the material naturally resistant to bacteria, mold, and odors.
When deciding what to clean a yoga mat with when it is made of cork, less is more. You do not want to saturate cork, as it can cause the material to swell or the bond with the rubber base to weaken. A damp cloth with plain water is usually all you need. If the mat is very dirty, a very diluted vinegar solution can be used, but avoid essential oils, as the oil can eventually stain the cork.
Natural Tree Rubber Mats
Natural rubber is an "open-cell" material, meaning it has tiny pores that provide excellent grip but can also trap sweat and bacteria. Rubber is sensitive to high pH levels and harsh chemicals.
Avoid any cleaners containing bleach or heavy solvents. These will cause the rubber to become brittle and lose its elasticity. Stick to very diluted mild soap or the vinegar-water mix. Most importantly, never leave a natural rubber mat in direct sunlight to dry, as UV rays break down the organic bonds in the rubber.
The Infinity Mat (PU Surface)
The Infinity Mat features a smooth, high-grip PU (polyurethane) top layer. This material is exceptionally grippy even when dry, but it is sensitive to oils. Avoid using any cleaning products that contain essential oils or heavy "moisturizing" soaps, as these will permanently clog the pores of the PU layer and lead to slick spots. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use is the best way to maintain its performance.
Step-by-Step: Daily Mat Maintenance
Building a consistent cleaning routine will extend the life of your gear and keep your practice space inviting. Follow these steps for a quick post-practice refresh:
Step 1: Spray the surface. Wait until the mat has cooled down slightly after your practice. Lightly mist your chosen cleaning solution over the entire surface. Do not soak the mat; a fine mist is plenty.
Step 2: Wipe with a microfiber cloth. Use a clean, soft cloth to wipe the mat in circular motions. This helps lift away skin cells, sweat, and dust. Pay extra attention to where your hands and feet usually land.
Step 3: Allow to air dry. This is the most important step. Never roll up a damp mat. Moisture trapped inside a rolled mat is a breeding ground for bacteria and can lead to a "sour" smell. Lay the mat flat or hang it over a chair until it is completely dry to the touch.
Step 4: Roll and store. Once dry, roll the mat with the top side (the printed or textured side) facing out. This helps the mat lay flat the next time you unroll it for practice.
Key Takeaway: Always roll your mat with the design side facing out and only after it is completely dry to prevent odors and ensure it lays flat for your next session.
Deep Cleaning: When and How
Sometimes a daily wipe-down isn't enough, especially if you practice several times a week or enjoy high-intensity hot yoga. A deep clean should be performed once a month or whenever you notice a decline in grip or a persistent odor.
The Bathtub Soak
For natural rubber or "closed-cell" foam mats (like our Flow Yoga Mat), a bathtub soak is an effective way to pull out deep-seated grime.
- Fill a bathtub with a few inches of lukewarm water.
- Add a tablespoon of mild dish soap.
- Submerge the mat and let it soak for 15–30 minutes.
- Use a soft sponge to gently scrub the surface.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water until all soap residue is gone.
- Squeeze out excess water by rolling the mat in a dry towel before hanging it to dry.
Note: Do not use this method for cork mats or the Infinity Mat, as prolonged submersion can damage the specialized surface layers.
Machine Washing the Combo Mat
If you use our Travel Combo Yoga Mat or the standard 3.5mm Combo Mat, the washing machine is your best friend for a deep clean.
- Use a front-loading machine if possible (top-loaders with agitators can be harsh on the mat edges).
- Use cold water and a gentle cycle.
- Use a very small amount of mild detergent.
- Do not use the spin cycle if it is very high-speed.
- Hang to dry in a shaded area.
What to Avoid: Common Cleaning Mistakes
In an effort to keep things clean, many yogis accidentally damage their mats by using products that are too aggressive. To keep your gear in top shape, avoid the following:
- Bleach and Harsh Disinfectants: These can eat away at natural rubber and cause microfiber to lose its soft texture.
- Essential Oils on PU/Infinity Mats: While great for scent, oils can clog the grip-enhancing pores of polyurethane mats.
- Direct Sunlight: While it seems like a good way to "sun-sanitize," UV rays are the enemy of natural rubber and can cause vibrant prints to fade.
- Excessive Soap: If you don't rinse the soap off perfectly, it creates a film that becomes incredibly slippery as soon as you start to sweat.
- The Dryer: High heat will melt the recycled PET fibers and ruin the rubber base of your mat. Always air dry.
The "Slippery New Mat" Myth: Salt Scrubs
You may have heard a popular tip suggesting that you should "salt" a new yoga mat to break it in. This advice usually applies to PVC mats, which often have a thin manufacturing film that needs to be worn down.
At Yoga Design Lab, we use natural rubber and recycled materials that typically do not require a salt scrub. In fact, coarse salt can be too abrasive for the artful prints on our mats. If you find a new mat feels a bit slick, the best "cleaner" is simply consistent practice. For our Combo Mat, a light spray of water before you begin will instantly activate the microfiber grip.
Bottom line: Skip the salt scrub for eco-friendly mats. Consistent use and a light water mist are the safest ways to "break in" your new gear without damaging the materials.
Maintaining Your Props and Accessories
While the mat is the foundation, your props also need regular care. At Yoga Design Lab, we design props that complement our mats, and they require similar attention to hygiene.
- Yoga Blocks: Similar to cork mats, these should be wiped with a damp cloth. Because they are solid, they are very durable, but they should never be submerged in water.
- Yoga Bolsters: Most high-quality bolsters have a removable cover. Check the care label, but usually, these can be machine washed on cold and hung to dry.
- Yoga Straps: These are often made of cotton or durable blends. They can be placed in a mesh laundry bag and washed with your regular laundry.
- Yoga Towels: Our recycled microfiber towels are designed for high-heat washing. They should be cleaned after every single use to prevent bacteria buildup. Avoid fabric softeners, as these coat the fibers and reduce their ability to absorb sweat.
Why Quality and Sustainability Matter in Mat Care
Choosing what to clean a yoga mat with is an extension of your commitment to our sustainability story. We believe that when you invest in high-quality gear—like our mats made from natural tree rubber and recycled plastic bottles—you are participating in a cycle of mindful consumption.
Caring for your mat properly is an act of sustainability. By keeping the materials clean and the grip functional, you prevent the need for frequent replacements. This keeps mats out of landfills and honors the resources used to create them. Our Bali origin story is inspired by the beauty of nature, and engineered to last through years of dedicated practice.
Whether you are using a DIY vinegar spray or a specialized mat wash, the goal is the same: to create a clean, safe, and beautiful space for your movement. When you take care of your mat, it takes care of you, providing the stability you need to dive deeper into your practice.
Summary of Best Practices
To keep your practice focused and your mat in peak condition, remember these key points:
- Daily: Mist with a 3:1 water/vinegar solution and air dry completely.
- Weekly: Check for any "slick spots" or buildup and spot-clean with mild soap.
- Monthly: Perform a deep clean or machine wash (for Combo Mats only) to reset the grip.
- Always: Avoid heat, sunlight, and harsh chemicals.
If you are unsure which mat is best for your specific style of yoga or sweat level, our Mat Quiz is a great way to find a personalized recommendation. The right mat, paired with the right cleaning routine, makes all the difference in your journey.
FAQ
Can I use disinfecting wipes on my yoga mat?
While convenient, many household disinfecting wipes contain harsh chemicals or bleach that can degrade natural rubber and damage the beautiful prints on your mat. If you must use them, choose a "natural" brand that is free of bleach and alcohol, and always wipe the mat down with a plain damp cloth afterward to remove any residue that could cause slipping.
How do I get the "rubbery" smell out of a new mat?
Natural tree rubber has a distinct earthy scent when it is first unboxed. This is a sign of the material's purity and will naturally fade over time. To speed up the process, unroll the mat and let it air out in a well-ventilated room (away from direct sunlight) for 24–48 hours, or wipe it down with a mild vinegar and water solution.
Why is my mat still slippery after cleaning?
If your mat is still slippery, there is likely a lingering soap residue or a buildup of body oils that hasn't been fully removed. Try wiping the mat down with a mixture of half water and half white vinegar to strip away any films. If you are using a Combo Mat, remember that it is designed to be moisture-activated; a light spray of water before practice will provide the grip you need.
Is it safe to put my yoga mat in the washing machine?
Only certain mats are machine-washable. Our Combo Mat and Travel Combo Mat are designed to be machine-washed on a cold, gentle cycle because they feature a microfiber top. However, you should never machine-wash a cork mat, a PU mat (like the Infinity Mat), or any mat with a very thick, dense foam core, as the agitation can cause the materials to separate or warp.