Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Why Your Mat Material Dictates the Cleaner
- The Essential Toolkit: What Do You Clean Yoga Mats With?
- How to Clean Different Mat Types
- Step-by-Step: Making Your Own DIY Mat Cleaner
- The Deep Cleaning Routine
- What NOT to Clean Yoga Mats With
- Tools That Help Keep Things Clean
- The Yoga Design Lab Philosophy on Care
- FAQ
Introduction
There is a specific moment during a downward-facing dog when the reality of your mat’s hygiene becomes impossible to ignore. You lower your head, take a deep breath, and instead of feeling the grounding calm of your practice, you are met with the lingering scent of last Tuesday’s heated Vinyasa (flow-based) class. We have all been there. A yoga mat is a porous surface that catches every drop of sweat, skin cell, and speck of dust, making a regular cleaning routine essential for both your health and the longevity of your gear.
At Yoga Design Lab, we believe that your mat is a sacred space that should look, feel, and smell as inspiring as the practice itself. Choosing the right cleaning agents is not just about aesthetics; it is about preserving the technical performance of the materials, from natural tree rubber to recycled microfiber, and that is a big part of our sustainability story. This guide will walk you through exactly what to clean yoga mats with, tailored to the specific materials in your collection. By using mindful, non-toxic ingredients, you can keep your practice space pristine without compromising the environment.
Quick Answer: Most yoga mats can be cleaned with a simple solution of three parts distilled water to one part white vinegar, plus a few drops of antimicrobial essential oils like tea tree or lavender. For mats with natural rubber or specialized grips, a very mild, diluted dish soap is often the safest choice to avoid breaking down the material.
Why Your Mat Material Dictates the Cleaner
Before you reach for a spray bottle, you must understand what your mat is made of. Not all cleaning solutions are created equal, and using the wrong one can permanently damage your grip or cause the material to degrade prematurely. If you want a deeper dive into surface performance, read which material is best for yoga mat.
Most high-quality mats fall into two categories: open-cell and closed-cell. Closed-cell mats, like the Infinity Mat, have a non-porous surface. This means sweat and bacteria stay on the top layer rather than soaking in. These are generally easier to wipe down but require consistent cleaning to prevent the surface from becoming a slip hazard.
Open-cell mats, such as our signature Combo Yoga Mat, are designed to absorb moisture. This is a massive benefit for hot yoga practitioners because the absorption creates a "mat + towel in one" effect that increases grip as you sweat. However, because these mats pull moisture into the core, they require a deeper cleaning method to ensure that the interior stays fresh and free of odor-causing bacteria.
The Essential Toolkit: What Do You Clean Yoga Mats With?
You do not need harsh industrial chemicals to sanitize your practice space. In fact, many of those chemicals can irritate your skin or lungs during deep breathing exercises (pranayama). Here are the most effective, natural ingredients to use.
Distilled Water
Tap water often contains minerals like calcium or chlorine that can leave a film on your mat over time. Using distilled water as your base ensures that you aren't adding any unwanted residue to the surface. It is the perfect neutral carrier for other cleaning agents.
White Vinegar
White vinegar is a staple in many yogis' cleaning kits. It has natural acetic acid, which helps break down oils from your skin and provides mild antimicrobial properties. It is excellent for cutting through the "slick" feeling that can develop on a mat after a few uses. However, use it sparingly on natural rubber, as high concentrations of acid can eventually make the rubber brittle.
Mild Castile Soap or Dish Soap
For a gentle but effective clean, a few drops of a clear, mild dish soap or organic castile soap are ideal. This is especially true for polyurethane (PU) surfaces or natural rubber. Soap molecules are excellent at lifting dirt and oils so they can be rinsed away. Always ensure the soap is free of heavy fragrances, synthetic dyes, and moisturizing oils, which can make your mat slippery.
Witch Hazel
If you find the scent of vinegar too pungent, witch hazel is a fantastic alternative. It is a natural astringent that evaporates quickly and helps to sanitize the surface without leaving a strong odor. It is gentle on most materials and works well in daily-use sprays.
Essential Oils
Essential oils provide more than just a pleasant scent for your Savasana (final relaxation pose). Many oils possess natural antibacterial and antifungal properties.
- Tea Tree Oil: Known for being a powerful antifungal agent.
- Lavender: Offers calming aromatherapy and mild antibacterial benefits.
- Eucalyptus or Lemongrass: Provides a fresh, energizing scent that cuts through sweat odors.
Key Takeaway: Always dilute your cleaning agents. A concentrated solution of vinegar or soap is harder to rinse off and can create a slippery film that interferes with your grip during practice.
How to Clean Different Mat Types
Every mat in your kit serves a different purpose, and their care routines should reflect that. Using the same "one-size-fits-all" cleaner can lead to a loss of performance.
The Combo Mat (Microfiber + Rubber)
Our signature Combo Mat features a top layer made from recycled plastic bottles. Because it acts like a towel, it is the most "absorbent" mat in our lineup. For daily maintenance, a light spray of water and vinegar is perfect.
For a deep clean, the Combo Mat is unique because it is machine washable. Use a gentle cycle with cold water and a very small amount of mild detergent. Do not use bleach or fabric softener, as these will ruin the microfiber's ability to grip. Always hang it to dry away from direct sunlight.
The Cork Mat
Cork is one of nature’s most incredible materials. It contains suberin, a waxy substance that makes it naturally antimicrobial and resistant to mold and mildew. Because of this, you actually need very little to clean it.
What do you clean cork yoga mats with? Mostly just water. A damp cloth is usually enough to wipe away surface dust. If you’ve had a particularly sweaty session, a very diluted vinegar solution (1 part vinegar to 10 parts water) can be used. Avoid heavy soaps, which can clog the pores of the cork and reduce its natural grip.
The Infinity Mat (PU + Rubber)
The Infinity Mat is engineered for ultimate grip and cushioning. The top layer is a smooth, high-performance surface that needs to stay clean to remain "sticky." We recommend using a soft cloth dampened with a drop of mild soap and water.
Important Note: Avoid using any cleaning products that contain heavy oils (like high concentrations of essential oils) on PU mats. The oils can get trapped in the surface, creating permanent "grease spots" and making the mat lose its grip.
The Flow and Travel Mats
For our more versatile everyday mats, a standard DIY spray works beautifully. These mats are durable and respond well to regular wiping. If you are using a Travel Combo Yoga Mat, remember that it can also go in the washing machine, making it easy to keep fresh while on the road.
Step-by-Step: Making Your Own DIY Mat Cleaner
Creating a signature cleaning spray is a great way to commit to a more sustainable, chemical-free lifestyle. It also allows you to customize the scent to your preference.
Step 1: Choose your bottle. Use a glass or high-quality BPA-free plastic spray bottle. A fine-mist trigger is best to ensure even coverage without soaking the mat.
Step 2: Mix the base. Fill the bottle 3/4 full with distilled water. Add white vinegar or witch hazel to fill the remaining 1/4 of the bottle.
Step 3: Add your "boosters." Add 2–3 drops of tea tree oil for its cleaning power and 2–3 drops of your favorite scent, such as lavender or peppermint. Do not overdo the oil; more is not better when it comes to maintaining a non-slip surface.
Step 4: Shake and spray. Give the bottle a good shake before every use to ensure the oils are distributed. Lightly mist your mat and wipe it down with a clean microfiber cloth.
The Deep Cleaning Routine
Even with daily wiping, your mat will eventually need a "reset." This is particularly true if you practice hot yoga several times a week. A deep clean flushes out the salt and oils that have worked their way into the material.
- Submerge (if applicable): For mats that are not natural rubber (which can get waterlogged and heavy), you can soak them in a bathtub with cool water and a teaspoon of mild soap. Let it sit for 15–30 minutes. Note: Do not soak the Infinity Mat or 100% natural rubber mats for long periods, as it can damage the structure.
- Rinse thoroughly: This is the most important step. Any soap left in the mat will turn into a slippery mess the next time you sweat. Use a showerhead or a garden hose to rinse until the water runs completely clear.
- The "Towel Roll": Lay your wet mat flat on a large, clean towel. Roll the mat and towel together like a sleeping bag and step on the roll to squeeze out excess moisture. This speeds up the drying process significantly.
- Air dry: Hang your mat over a railing or a sturdy shower rod. Never put your yoga mat in a tumble dryer, as the heat will melt the adhesives and ruin the rubber.
Bottom line: A deep clean once a month (or every two weeks for heavy sweaters) will extend the life of your mat by years and keep the colors of your Yoga Design Lab gear looking vibrant.
What NOT to Clean Yoga Mats With
Knowing what to avoid is just as important as knowing what to use. Many common household cleaners are far too aggressive for the delicate materials used in premium yoga gear.
- Bleach: This will break down the natural rubber fibers and cause the colors to fade or "bleed." It is also incredibly harsh on your skin.
- Glass Cleaners: These often contain ammonia, which can dry out the mat and make it prone to cracking.
- Essential Oils in High Volume: While a few drops are fine, pouring oils directly onto a mat will ruin the grip.
- Abrasive Scrubbers: Never use a scouring pad or a stiff brush. These can tear the surface of the mat, especially on PU or cork materials. A soft cloth or sponge is all you need.
- Direct Sunlight: While UV rays kill bacteria, they also degrade natural tree rubber. Leaving your mat to dry in the scorching sun for hours will make it brittle and cause it to flake. Dry your mat in the shade or indoors.
Tools That Help Keep Things Clean
Sometimes the best way to clean a mat is to prevent it from getting dirty in the first place. This is where props and accessories come into play.
Yoga Towels
If you know you are heading into a particularly sweaty session, laying a full-size Yoga Towel over your mat is a proactive choice. Our all towels collection is made from the same recycled PET microfiber as the Combo Mat. They catch the bulk of the sweat and skin cells, and you can simply toss the towel in the wash after class.
Hand Towels
Having a small Yoga Hand Towel nearby to wipe your hands and face during practice reduces the amount of oil transferred to the mat. It’s a simple habit that keeps your grip consistent and your mat cleaner for longer.
Proper Storage
After you clean your mat, ensure it is 100% dry before rolling it up. Rolling a damp mat is a recipe for mildew growth. Once dry, store it in a cool, dry place. Using a Yoga Mat Bag made from recycled materials can also protect your mat from dust and pet hair between sessions.
The Yoga Design Lab Philosophy on Care
Our founder, Chad Turner, started this brand in Bali with a vision to merge beautiful design with sustainable, high-performance materials. When you invest in a piece of our gear, you are supporting a movement toward a more conscious yoga industry. Because we use eco-friendly materials like natural tree rubber, recycled plastic bottles, and water-based inks, your care routine should also be eco-friendly.
Using natural cleaning solutions isn't just about protecting the mat; it's about honoring the environment and your own body. When you roll out a clean, beautiful mat, you are more likely to show up for your practice with a clear mind and a sense of excitement.
If you are still unsure which mat fits your specific practice and cleaning preferences, we invite you to take our Mat Quiz. It is designed to match your style—whether it's high-intensity hot yoga or restorative stretching—with the perfect material and design.
FAQ
Can I use disinfecting wipes on my yoga mat?
While convenient, most standard disinfecting wipes contain harsh chemicals and alcohols that can dry out natural rubber and damage the specialized grip of a yoga mat. If you must use them, choose a brand that is specifically labeled as "yoga mat safe" and free of bleach. It is always better to use a dedicated spray and a reusable cloth to reduce waste and protect your gear.
How often should I clean my yoga mat?
You should give your mat a quick wipe-down after every single practice to remove surface oils and sweat. For those practicing daily or in heated environments, a deeper clean or machine wash (for the Combo Mat) should happen every one to two weeks. For a fuller routine, see how to best clean a yoga mat for a fresh practice. Regular maintenance prevents bacteria from building up and keeps your mat's grip performing at its best.
Why does my yoga mat smell even after I clean it?
If a mat still smells, it is likely because bacteria have become trapped deep within the "open-cell" structure of the material. This often happens if the mat was rolled up while still damp. To fix this, perform a deep clean using the "submerge and rinse" method or a machine wash for microfiber mats, and ensure it dries completely in a well-ventilated area for at least 24 hours.
Can I put my yoga mat in the dryer?
No, you should never put a yoga mat in a tumble dryer. The high heat can melt the eco-friendly adhesives used to bond the layers, damage the natural rubber base, and cause the mat to lose its shape or even shrink. Always hang your mat to air dry, which is the most sustainable and safest way to preserve the integrity of the materials.