Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Understanding Your Yoga Mat: Open Cell vs. Closed Cell
- Why Open Cell Mats Require Special Care
- Everyday Maintenance: Post-Practice Wipe Down
- The Deep Clean Process for Open Cell Mats
- What to Avoid When Cleaning Open Cell Materials
- Professional Care Tips for Natural Rubber and PU
- Practicing Clean: How to Reduce the Need for Deep Cleaning
- Storing Your Mat for Maximum Longevity
- Building a Sustainable Practice
- Conclusion
- FAQ
Introduction
Stepping onto your mat for a morning practice should feel like a fresh start, but if your last session was a high-intensity flow, your mat might tell a different story. For practitioners who prefer the reliable, high-friction surface of an open cell mat, maintaining that "sticky" feel requires a specific approach. At Hugger Mugger, we have been crafting high-quality mats and props since 1986, and we know that the tools you use are an investment in your wellness. Because open cell mats are designed to be porous and absorbent, they require different care than standard closed cell options. This guide will explain how to clean open cell yoga mat materials safely to preserve their integrity, ensure hygiene, and keep your grip firm for years to come. If you're still comparing materials, our Yoga Mat Guide can help narrow the field.
Understanding Your Yoga Mat: Open Cell vs. Closed Cell
To care for your equipment properly, you must first understand its construction. Most yoga mats fall into one of two categories: open cell or closed cell. This distinction refers to the "pores" of the mat material.
Closed Cell Mats
Closed cell mats have a sealed surface. They do not absorb sweat, moisture, or bacteria. These are often made of PVC or TPE materials. Because moisture stays on the surface, these mats can become slippery if you sweat heavily, but they are very easy to sanitize because you can scrub them without the water soaking into the core. Our Tapas Original mat and Tapas® ECO Mat are classic examples of durable, closed cell construction.
Open Cell Mats
Open cell mats are designed with an open structure that acts almost like a sponge. These mats are highly valued for their grip, especially in styles like Vinyasa or Power Yoga where hands and feet might get damp. The material "wicks" moisture away from the surface and into the mat, preventing you from sliding. Common materials for this style include natural rubber and polyurethane (PU). Our Para Rubber Yoga Mat is a premier example of an open cell, natural rubber mat that provides exceptional traction.
| Feature | Open Cell Mat | Closed Cell Mat |
|---|---|---|
| Common Materials | Natural Rubber, PU | PVC, TPE |
| Absorbency | High (absorbs sweat/moisture) | Low (moisture stays on top) |
| Grip Style | Increases with moisture | Can become slick when wet |
| Primary Benefit | Maximum traction for sweaty hands | Easy to sanitize, very durable |
| Cleaning Needs | Gentle, no oils, cautious drying | Scrubbable, faster drying |
Key Takeaway: Open cell mats provide superior grip by absorbing moisture, but this same absorbency means they can trap sweat and oils deep within the mat if not cleaned correctly.
Why Open Cell Mats Require Special Care
Because the structure of an open cell mat is porous, anything you put on the surface has the potential to travel into the interior. This includes sweat, skin oils, lotions, and even the cleaners you use. For a deeper look at construction, see our Are Yoga Mats Porous? Open vs. Closed Cell Foam Guide.
If you use the wrong cleaning agents, you can cause several issues:
- Loss of Grip: Essential oils, heavy detergents, or moisturizing soaps can clog the pores of the mat. Once these pores are filled with oil or residue, the mat loses its ability to "wick" moisture, making it permanently slippery.
- Material Degradation: Natural rubber is a biodegradable material. Harsh chemicals or acidic cleaners (like high concentrations of lemon juice or undiluted vinegar) can cause the rubber to become brittle, crack, or "flake" over time.
- Hygiene Issues: If an open cell mat is soaked in water and not dried completely, moisture can stay trapped in the center. This creates an environment where bacteria or mold could potentially grow.
Everyday Maintenance: Post-Practice Wipe Down
The best way to keep your mat in top shape is to stay consistent with light maintenance. You should perform a quick cleaning after every session, especially if you practiced a more vigorous style of yoga.
Step 1: Prepare Your Solution
For daily cleaning, use a very mild solution. We recommend a mixture of roughly three parts water to one part distilled white vinegar. Alternatively, use a specialized product like our Refresh Mist, which is formulated to be gentle on mat materials. Avoid using any products that contain tea tree oil or other essential oils on open cell rubber mats, as these can damage the grip.
Step 2: Apply to a Cloth, Not the Mat
Bolded Key Rule: Never spray your cleaning solution directly onto an open cell mat. If you spray the mat, the liquid can be sucked into the pores before you have a chance to wipe it away. Instead, spray your solution onto a clean microfiber cloth until it is damp, not soaking.
Step 3: Wipe the Surface
Gently wipe down the entire surface of the mat using the damp cloth. Pay extra attention to where your hands and feet usually land. If you notice any specific spots of dirt or sweat, you can give them a little more attention, but avoid scrubbing aggressively.
Step 4: Let It Air Dry
Lay the mat flat to dry completely before rolling it back up. Never roll a damp open cell mat, as this traps moisture between the layers.
Note: Always clean both sides of your mat. The bottom side picks up dust and floor debris, which then gets rolled into the "clean" side of the mat once you pack it away.
The Deep Clean Process for Open Cell Mats
Even with daily wiping, sweat and oils will eventually accumulate deeper in the mat. Depending on how often you practice, we recommend a deep clean once every one to two months. Our Care & Cleaning Tips for Yoga Mats covers everyday care, deep cleaning, and storage tips.
Step 1: The "Damp Scrub"
Mix a small amount of mild, oil-free dish soap with a large bowl of warm water. You only need a few drops of soap—the water should not be overly sudsy. Dip a soft sponge or cloth into the water and wring it out until it is just damp. Wipe the mat in circular motions.
Step 2: The Rinse
Rinse your cloth or sponge with clean, plain water. Wring it out well and wipe the mat again to remove any soap residue. This step is vital because any soap left on the mat will make it slippery during your next practice.
Step 3: Removing Excess Moisture
Lay your mat flat on a clean, dry towel. Place another dry towel on top of the mat. Walk across the top towel or press down with your hands to "sandwich" the mat. This helps squeeze out any moisture that has been absorbed into the open cells without damaging the rubber.
Step 4: Extended Drying Time
Open cell mats can take a long time to dry. Hang the mat over a laundry rack or the back of a chair indoors. Do not hang it in direct sunlight.
Myth: "You should soak your open cell mat in the bathtub for a deep clean." Fact: Submerging an open cell mat in a bathtub causes it to act like a giant sponge. It will become extremely heavy and may take several days to dry completely. This can lead to internal moisture issues. A thorough surface scrub with a damp cloth is usually safer and more effective.
What to Avoid When Cleaning Open Cell Materials
Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing the proper steps. Open cell mats, particularly those made from natural rubber like our Para Rubber Yoga Mat, have specific sensitivities.
- Essential Oils: While they smell wonderful, oils are the enemy of open cell grip. They clog the pores and can cause natural rubber to break down prematurely.
- Direct Sunlight: UV rays are highly damaging to natural rubber. If you leave your mat outside to dry in the sun, it can undergo a process called oxidation. This makes the mat change color, become brittle, and lose its "stickiness."
- The Washing Machine: Most manufacturers advise against putting open cell mats in the washing machine. The agitation can tear the material, and the high-speed spin cycle can stretch and deform the mat.
- Bleach and Harsh Chemicals: These will destroy the natural fibers of the mat and may cause skin irritation during your next practice.
- Oily Skin Products: If you apply heavy lotions or body oils before practice, these will be absorbed into your mat. Try to practice with clean skin to keep your mat's pores open.
Professional Care Tips for Natural Rubber and PU
Different open cell materials have slight variations in how they react to cleaning.
Natural Rubber Mats
Natural rubber mats have a distinct "earthy" scent when they are new. This is normal and will fade over time. To speed up the process, you can let the mat air out in a well-ventilated room (away from the sun). If your rubber mat starts to look dull or "ashy," it may be oxidizing. You can wipe it down with a very dilute vinegar and water solution to help restore the look, but remember that some color change is a natural part of the life of a rubber mat.
Polyurethane (PU) Mats
PU mats often have a very smooth, almost leather-like feel but are incredibly grippy. These are even more sensitive to oils than rubber. If you get an oil stain on a PU mat, it may be permanent. Stick strictly to water or the most diluted vinegar solution possible for these mats.
Practicing Clean: How to Reduce the Need for Deep Cleaning
You can extend the time between deep cleanings by making a few adjustments to your practice habits. If you use props regularly, our Yoga Blocks collection can help you choose the right support.
- Wash Your Feet: Much of the dirt on a mat comes from our feet. A quick rinse or wipe of your feet before you step on the mat makes a huge difference.
- Use a Yoga Towel: If you know you are going to sweat heavily, lay a thin yoga towel over your open cell mat. The towel will absorb the bulk of the sweat, keeping it out of the mat's pores. You can then simply throw the towel in the laundry.
- Use Props Wisely: When using Foam Blocks or Cork Blocks, try to keep them on the mat rather than the floor to prevent them from transferring floor dust to your mat surface.
- Avoid Moisturizers: Save the hand cream and body lotion for after your Savasana (final relaxation pose).
Storing Your Mat for Maximum Longevity
How you store your mat between sessions affects its cleanliness and its shape.
- Dry Before Rolling: We cannot emphasize this enough. Ensure the mat is bone-dry.
- Roll, Don't Fold: Folding an open cell mat can cause permanent creases or cracks in the rubber. Always roll your mat.
- Top Side Out: Most teachers recommend rolling the mat with the "practice side" (the top) facing out. This helps the mat lay flat the next time you unroll it, as the corners will curl toward the floor rather than up toward your feet.
- Use a Breathable Bag: If you use a mat carrier, like our Batik Yoga Mat Bag, ensure it has some ventilation. If you put a slightly damp mat into a sealed plastic bag, it will likely develop an odor.
Building a Sustainable Practice
Choosing an open cell mat, especially one made from sustainable materials like natural rubber, is a great choice for the environment and your practice. Because these materials are natural, they require a bit more mindfulness in their care. For another natural-fiber option, see our Sattva Jute Yoga Mat.
At Hugger Mugger, we believe that when you take care of your tools, your tools take care of you. We have spent nearly 40 years observing the evolution of yoga gear, and we consistently find that practitioners who follow these simple cleaning steps get much more life out of their equipment. Whether you are using our Para Rubber Yoga Mat for a sweaty flow or a Sattva Jute Mat for a grounded Hatha session, proper hygiene is part of the practice of saucha (cleanliness).
Key Takeaway: Treat your open cell mat with the same respect you give your practice. Keep it dry, keep it out of the sun, and avoid oils to maintain that legendary grip.
Conclusion
Cleaning an open cell yoga mat doesn't have to be a chore. By incorporating a quick post-practice wipe down and an occasional deep clean with a damp cloth, you can keep your practice space fresh and your grip secure. Remember to avoid soaking the mat, keep it away from essential oils, and always let it air dry completely indoors.
Our commitment at Hugger Mugger has always been to provide equipment that supports your journey, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned teacher. For more help finding the perfect mat or prop for your specific needs, take our Yoga Mat Quiz. If you want a deeper dive into supportive tools, our Yoga Prop Guide is a great next step.
FAQ
Can I use essential oils to make my open cell mat smell better? No, you should avoid using essential oils on open cell mats, particularly those made of natural rubber or PU. The oils can clog the pores that provide the mat's grip, making it slippery, and can also cause the material to break down or "flake" over time. If you want a fresh scent, look for a specialized water-based mat mist that is specifically labeled as safe for open cell or rubber mats.
How long does it take for an open cell mat to dry after cleaning? Because open cell mats are absorbent, they take significantly longer to dry than closed cell mats. A light daily wipe down might dry in 20 minutes, but a deeper clean where the mat has absorbed some moisture can take 24 to 48 hours to dry completely. Always hang the mat indoors in a well-ventilated area and avoid rolling it until you are certain no moisture remains.
Is it okay to clean my natural rubber mat with a garden hose? While it might seem convenient, using a high-pressure garden hose is not recommended. The pressure can damage the surface of the rubber, and it will cause the mat to absorb an excessive amount of water. This makes the mat extremely heavy and very difficult to dry out, which can lead to mold or a "musty" smell inside the mat's core. Stick to a damp cloth and manual wiping.
Why is my open cell mat losing its grip even though I clean it? If your mat is losing its grip, it is likely due to one of three things: soap residue, oil buildup, or oxidation. If you have been using soap, try wiping the mat several times with a cloth damp with plain water to remove any leftover film. If you have been using oils or lotions, the pores may be clogged. Finally, if the mat is older and has been exposed to light, the material may simply be reaching the end of its natural lifespan.