Introduction
There is a specific moment during a cooling Savasana (Corpse Pose) when the scent of your yoga mat becomes unavoidable. If that scent is less like a calming sanctuary and more like a gym locker, it is time for a refresh. Keeping your gear clean is about more than just aesthetics; it is about maintaining the traction you need for a safe practice and extending the life of your investment. At Hugger Mugger, we have spent nearly four decades helping practitioners choose and care for the right tools, and we know that every material requires a specific touch. Whether you are using a specialized professional mat or a TPE-based option like a Toplus mat, the right cleaning method preserves the surface integrity. This guide explains exactly how to clean a Toplus yoga mat to ensure it remains grippy, hygienic, and ready for your next session.
Understanding the Material: What Is a Toplus Mat?
To clean any yoga mat effectively, you must first understand what it is made of. Most Toplus mats are constructed from TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer). This is a synthetic material that serves as a middle ground between traditional PVC and natural rubber. TPE is generally closed-cell, meaning it does not absorb sweat, moisture, or bacteria into the core of the mat.
While closed-cell mats are more hygienic because they prevent "internal" funk, they require frequent surface cleaning. Because sweat stays on the top layer, it can become slippery quite quickly during a vigorous Vinyasa flow. Understanding this distinction helps you choose the right cleaning solution—one that removes surface oils without degrading the TPE polymer.
For a broader look at mat materials and thicknesses, explore the Yoga Mat Guide.
Routine Post-Practice Cleaning
The best way to keep your mat in top shape is to never let the grime build up in the first place. A quick daily wipe-down removes the salt from sweat and the natural oils from your skin that can eventually break down the mat's "sticky" finish.
The Daily Wipe-Down Method
- Prepare a mild solution: Mix a few drops of gentle dish soap with warm water in a spray bottle. Avoid using heavy detergents or those with moisturizing agents, as these leave a residue that makes the mat slippery.
- Spritz lightly: Spray the surface of the mat. You do not need to soak it; a fine mist is sufficient for TPE materials.
- Wipe with a soft cloth: Use a clean microfiber cloth or a soft cotton towel to wipe the mat in circular motions. Focus on the areas where your hands and feet land most often, such as the top and bottom thirds of the mat.
- Air dry before rolling: This is the most critical step. Never roll your mat while it is even slightly damp. This can trap moisture and lead to a musty odor.
For additional routine and deep-cleaning guidance, see Care & Cleaning Tips for Yoga Mats.
Quick Answer: To clean a Toplus yoga mat, use a mixture of warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap. Wipe the surface with a soft cloth after every practice and allow it to air dry completely before rolling it up.
Deep Cleaning Your Toplus Yoga Mat
Every few weeks, or once a month depending on the frequency of your practice, your mat deserves a deeper level of care. If you notice visible marks or a lingering scent, a surface wipe is no longer enough.
The Deep Clean Process
Step 1: Fill a basin or bathtub. Use cool to lukewarm water. Never use hot water, as high temperatures can cause TPE materials to lose their shape or begin to "peel."
Step 2: Add mild cleanser. Add about a tablespoon of mild dish soap per gallon of water. Swish the water to create a few suds.
Step 3: Submerge and soak briefly. Place the mat in the water for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps loosen any oils that have bonded to the textured surface.
Step 4: Scrub gently. Use a very soft sponge or a washcloth to gently scrub the entire surface. Do not use abrasive scrub brushes or steel wool, as these will tear the TPE material and ruin the grip.
Step 5: Rinse thoroughly. This is vital. Rinse the mat with clean, cool water until all soap suds are gone. Any leftover soap will turn into a slippery film the next time you sweat.
Step 6: Squeeze out excess water. Lay the mat flat on a clean, dry towel and roll them up together to squeeze out the bulk of the moisture. Do not wring the mat, as this can stretch or tear the foam.
For another practical perspective on cleaning techniques, read How to Clean a Yoga Mat.
What to Avoid When Cleaning TPE Mats
While TPE is durable for daily practice, it is sensitive to certain chemicals and environments. We have seen many practitioners accidentally ruin their mats by using products that are too aggressive.
- Avoid Bleach and Ammonia: These harsh chemicals will cause the TPE to become brittle and eventually flake off.
- Limit Essential Oils: While a lavender-scented mat sounds lovely, high concentrations of essential oils can break down synthetic materials. If you use a DIY spray, keep the oil-to-water ratio very low.
- No Washing Machines: Unless the manufacturer specifically states otherwise, do not put a TPE mat in the washing machine. The agitation and spinning can easily shred the lightweight foam.
- Skip the Dryer: The heat of a clothes dryer is the fastest way to melt or warp a yoga mat.
Myth: "A thicker mat needs more soap to get clean."
Fact: Thickness has nothing to do with the amount of soap needed. In fact, using too much soap on a thick TPE mat makes it harder to rinse, often leaving a sticky or slippery residue that interferes with your grip.
Drying and Storage Best Practices
How you dry your mat is just as important as how you wash it. Improper drying is the leading cause of bacteria growth and material degradation.
Air Dry in the Shade
Always hang your mat over a laundry rack, a chair, or a curtain rod to dry. Ensure there is airflow to both sides of the mat.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
UV rays are the enemy of most yoga mat materials, including TPE and natural rubber. Leaving your mat out in the sun to dry can cause the material to fade, become brittle, and lose its "stickiness" in a matter of hours.
The "Inward" Roll
Once the mat is completely dry, roll it with the top side (the side you practice on) facing outward. This helps the mat lay flat the next time you unroll it, preventing the edges from curling up during your practice.
Comparing Mat Care by Material
Not all mats are created equal. Since 1986, we have developed a wide range of mats to suit different needs, and each requires a slightly different care routine. Understanding these differences can help you decide if your current mat meets your maintenance preferences.
| Mat Material | Cleaning Level | Best Solution | Notable Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
| TPE (Toplus) | Moderate | Mild soap & water | Closed-cell, lightweight, sensitive to heat. |
| PVC (Tapas® Original) | Low | Mat wash or mild soap | Highly durable, the industry standard for longevity. |
| Natural Rubber (Para Rubber) | High | Vinegar & water (50/50) | Superior grip, open-cell, needs deep cleaning. |
| Jute/Rubber (Sattva Jute) | Moderate | Spot clean only | Natural fibers, very durable, requires gentle touch. |
For more options across materials and practice styles, browse the yoga mat collection.
Key Takeaway: TPE mats like the Toplus model are best maintained with frequent, light cleanings using mild soap. Avoid soaking them for long periods and never expose them to high heat or direct sunlight.
When Is It Time to Replace Your Mat?
No matter how well you clean it, every yoga mat has a lifespan. Because TPE is a softer, lighter foam, it may show signs of wear sooner than a heavy-duty professional mat like our Tapas® Original.
Watch for these signs that your mat is ready to be retired:
- Balding Spots: If the texture has worn smooth where your hands and feet usually go, you will lose traction and potentially slip.
- Flaking or Pitting: If small pieces of the mat are sticking to your leggings or skin after practice, the material is breaking down.
- Lingering Odor: If a deep clean doesn't remove a sour smell, bacteria may have found a way into the material.
- Compression: If the mat feels significantly thinner or "bottoms out" when you are on your knees, the internal structure has collapsed.
If you find yourself replacing your mat frequently, you might consider a more durable option. For example, we offer the Tapas® ECO mat, which is OEKO-TEX® certified and made from 50% recycled materials, providing a sustainable and long-lasting alternative for those who prefer an eco-conscious practice.
Enhancing Your Practice with Clean Props
A clean mat is the foundation, but your other accessories deserve attention too. If you are using bolsters, blocks, or straps, these also harbor sweat and dust.
- Yoga Blocks: Foam blocks can be wiped down with the same soap and water solution used for your mat. Cork blocks are naturally antimicrobial but should still be wiped with a damp cloth and allowed to air dry.
- Yoga Straps: Most cotton straps, like our D-ring or cinch straps, can be tossed into a mesh laundry bag and washed on a cold, gentle cycle.
- Bolsters: If your bolster has a removable cover, such as our Standard Yoga Bolster, wash the cover in cold water and air dry it to prevent shrinking.
For more guidance on choosing and caring for blocks, straps, blankets, bolsters, wedges, and sandbags, visit the Yoga Prop Guide.
Maintaining all your equipment creates a more inviting space for your practice. There is a psychological benefit to unrolling a fresh, clean mat; it signals to your mind that you are entering a space of clarity and focus.
A Note on Studio Hygiene
If you frequently take your mat to a public studio, your cleaning routine should be more rigorous. Even if you don't sweat much, the floor of a yoga studio sees a lot of foot traffic. Always wipe down the bottom of your mat as well as the top. When you roll your mat, the bottom touches the top; if the bottom is dirty, you are essentially transferring floor germs directly to the surface where you place your face during child's pose.
For on-the-go cleaning, we recommend carrying a small bottle of Refresh Mist in your bag. Our Refresh Mist is a simple way to give your mat a quick hygienic boost immediately after class before you roll it up for the commute home.
Summary of Best Practices
To keep your Toplus mat in peak condition, follow these simple steps:
- Wipe it down after every single practice.
- Use mild soap, never harsh chemicals or bleach.
- Avoid the washing machine and the dryer.
- Dry it completely in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
- Store it in a cool place away from the sun.
Bottom line: Consistent, gentle maintenance is the secret to a grippy and long-lasting yoga mat.
Conclusion
Caring for your yoga mat is an extension of the practice of Saucha, or cleanliness. It shows respect for your tools and your body. While a Toplus mat offers a lightweight and accessible start for many practitioners, its TPE construction requires specific care to prevent it from becoming a slippery or unhygienic surface. By following these cleaning steps, you can ensure your mat remains a reliable partner in your wellness journey.
At Hugger Mugger, we have been dedicated to providing the yoga community with durable, practice-tested gear since 1986. We believe that whether you are using your first mat or a professional-grade Para Rubber mat, the quality of your experience depends on the quality of your equipment. If your current mat is reaching the end of its life, we invite you to explore our Mat Guide or take our Yoga Mat Quiz to find the perfect long-lasting surface for your specific style of yoga.
FAQ
How often should I deep clean my Toplus yoga mat?
If you practice 3–5 times a week, a deep clean once a month is usually sufficient. However, if you practice hot yoga or sweat heavily, you may need to deep clean it every two weeks to prevent oil buildup and odors.
Can I use vinegar to clean a TPE mat?
While vinegar is a great natural cleaner for many surfaces, use it sparingly on TPE. A very diluted solution (1 part vinegar to 4 parts water) is generally safe, but using too much vinegar can occasionally cause synthetic foams to become brittle over time.
Why is my Toplus mat still slippery after cleaning?
The most common reason is soap residue. If you used too much dish soap or didn't rinse the mat thoroughly, a thin film of soap remains. When you start to sweat, that film becomes incredibly slippery; try rinsing the mat again with plain, lukewarm water.
Can I dry my yoga mat in the sun to kill bacteria?
While UV light does kill bacteria, it also breaks down the polymers in your yoga mat. Direct sunlight will make a TPE or rubber mat degrade, fade, and lose its grip very quickly, so it is always better to air dry your mat indoors or in a shaded area.
