Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Understanding Your Mat’s Material
- Can You Put a Yoga Mat in the Washing Machine?
- Step-by-Step: How to Wash Your Mat Safely
- The Drying Process: The Most Important Step
- When to Avoid the Washing Machine
- Hand-Washing: The Preferred Deep Clean
- Routine Maintenance: Keeping the Machine at Bay
- Caring for Other Yoga Props
- The Hugger Mugger Commitment to Quality
- FAQ
Introduction
We have all been there: after a particularly grueling vinyasa flow or a humid hot yoga session, you roll up your mat and realize it has reached a state of "funk" that a simple surface wipe cannot fix. The question of how to wash a yoga mat in a washing machine is one of the most common queries we receive at Hugger Mugger. While the convenience of a machine cycle is tempting, the answer is not a simple yes or no. Because we have been manufacturing high-quality yoga gear since 1986, we know that the longevity of your mat depends entirely on how you treat its specific materials. This guide will help you determine if your mat is machine-compatible, provide a safe step-by-step cleaning process, and offer alternative deep-cleaning methods to ensure your sacred space stays fresh and functional.
If you are still deciding what kind of mat you own, start with our Yoga Mat Quiz for a faster way to narrow down the right fit.
Understanding Your Mat’s Material
Before you even touch the buttons on your laundry machine, you must identify what your mat is made of. Yoga mats are generally categorized into two types: open-cell and closed-cell. Each reacts differently to water and mechanical agitation.
Closed-Cell Mats
Most standard PVC mats, like our Tapas® Original Yoga Mat or Tapas® Ultra, are closed-cell. This means the material is non-porous and does not absorb sweat or bacteria into the core of the mat. While this makes them easier to sanitize on the surface, the mechanical action of a washing machine can sometimes cause the edges to fray or the "sticky" surface to break down prematurely.
Open-Cell Mats
Open-cell mats are designed to absorb moisture, which is why they are often preferred for hot yoga. However, this absorbency means they also soak up sweat, skin oils, and cleaning solutions. If you put an open-cell mat in a washing machine, it can act like a giant sponge, becoming incredibly heavy and potentially damaging your machine’s drum or failing to dry properly, leading to internal mold.
Natural Materials
If you own a natural rubber mat, such as our Para Rubber Yoga Mat, or a jute-based mat like the Sattva Jute Mat, the washing machine is generally off-limits. Natural rubber contains proteins and structures that break down when submerged in water or exposed to harsh detergents. Jute is a natural fiber that will fray and disintegrate under the stress of a spin cycle.
Quick Answer: Only specific mats, usually lightweight PVC or microfiber-topped "combo" mats, should ever go in a washing machine. Always use a front-loading machine without a center agitator, select a cold, gentle cycle, and never use the dryer.
Can You Put a Yoga Mat in the Washing Machine?
The short answer is: sometimes, but with significant caution. Most manufacturers, including us, recommend hand-washing as the primary method to extend the life of your equipment. However, if your mat is exceptionally dirty and is made of a durable, thin PVC or a microfiber-bonded material, a machine might be an option.
The Problem with Top-Loaders
If you decide to machine wash, the type of machine matters immensely. You should never put a yoga mat in a top-loading machine with a central agitator. The agitator (the pillar in the middle) can catch the mat, causing it to tear, stretch, or even snap.
Front-Loading Machines
A front-loading machine or a top-loader without an agitator is a safer bet. These machines use a tumbling motion rather than a twisting motion. Even so, the weight of a wet mat can unbalance the drum, so it is often wise to wash the mat with a few old towels to balance the load.
Detergent Choices
Never use standard laundry detergent, bleach, or fabric softener. Fabric softeners leave a film on the mat that destroys the "grip" or "tackiness" that keeps you from sliding in Downward-Facing Dog. Instead, use a tiny amount of a very mild, eco-friendly detergent or a dedicated mat wash.
Step-by-Step: How to Wash Your Mat Safely
If you have confirmed your mat is a candidate for the machine—such as a thin travel mat or a microfiber combo mat like those from Yoga Design Lab—follow these steps precisely.
Step 1: Check for Loose Debris. / Shake your mat outside or vacuum it to remove hair and dust before it gets wet and sticks to the surface.
Step 2: Set Your Machine. / Select the "Gentle" or "Delicate" cycle. Use cold water only, as heat can melt the adhesives or warp the material.
Step 3: Add Minimal Soap. / Use about a teaspoon of mild soap. Less is more; excess soap is very difficult to rinse out of a porous mat.
Step 4: Skip the Spin Cycle. / If your machine allows you to turn off the spin cycle or set it to "Low," do so. High-speed spinning can stretch and permanently deform the mat.
Step 5: The Rinse Check. / Once the cycle is finished, check the mat for soap residue. If it feels slimy, run an extra rinse-only cycle with plain water.
Key Takeaway: Machine washing is a "heavy-duty" option that should be used sparingly—perhaps once or twice a year. Over-washing in a machine will significantly shorten the lifespan of any yoga mat.
The Drying Process: The Most Important Step
How you dry your mat is just as important as how you wash it. A damp mat is a breeding ground for bacteria and odors, which defeats the purpose of the wash.
Never use a dryer. The intense heat of a clothes dryer will ruin the "stick" of a PVC mat and can cause natural rubber to become brittle or even melt. Instead, follow the "Towel Roll" method.
The Towel Roll Method
- Lay the wet mat flat on a clean, dry, heavy-duty bath towel.
- Place another towel on top of the mat.
- Roll the towels and the mat together like a sleeping bag.
- Step on the roll to squeeze out as much water as possible.
- Unroll and hang the mat over a sturdy rail or the back of a chair.
Air Drying Tips
Avoid hanging your mat in direct sunlight. While UV rays have some disinfecting properties, direct sun can break down the materials of your mat, making it flake or fade. Hang it in a well-ventilated indoor area or in the shade. It may take 24 to 48 hours for a mat to dry completely, especially if it has an open-cell construction.
Note: Ensure the mat is bone-dry before rolling it up for storage. If you roll it while even slightly damp, you may find a layer of mildew the next time you unroll it for practice.
When to Avoid the Washing Machine
There are several scenarios where the machine is a guaranteed way to ruin your gear. Avoid the washing machine if:
- Your mat is natural rubber: The agitation and soaking will cause the rubber to oxidize and lose its grip.
- Your mat is extra thick: Mats over 5mm thick, like the Tapas® Ultra, become extremely heavy when wet and can damage your washing machine’s suspension.
- The mat has a "sticky" coating: Some entry-level mats have a sprayed-on grip that will wash away entirely in a machine.
- Your mat is made of TPE: Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) is often heat-bonded and can fall apart in a machine cycle.
If you want help comparing mat styles and thicknesses before you buy, the Yoga Mat Guide is a helpful place to start.
Hand-Washing: The Preferred Deep Clean
For most of our mats, we recommend a bathtub soak over a washing machine cycle. This is the gold standard for deep cleaning without the risk of mechanical damage.
- Fill the Tub: Use lukewarm water and a few drops of mild dish soap.
- Soak: Submerge the mat for 15 to 30 minutes. Use a soft cloth to gently scrub any areas where your hands and feet usually land.
- Rinse Thoroughly: This is the most critical part. Rinse the mat with a showerhead or clean water until the water runs completely clear and no bubbles appear when you squeeze the mat.
- Dry: Use the Towel Roll method described above.
Routine Maintenance: Keeping the Machine at Bay
The best way to avoid needing a washing machine is to maintain a consistent routine cleaning habit. We have found that practitioners who wipe their mats after every session rarely need to resort to aggressive deep cleaning.
Daily Wipe-Down
Use a dedicated mat spray or a DIY solution of water and white vinegar (3:1 ratio). Vinegar is a natural disinfectant that helps cut through skin oils. Adding a few drops of tea tree oil can provide antimicrobial benefits and a fresh scent.
Using a Yoga Towel
If you practice a sweaty style of yoga, consider laying a yoga towel over your mat. These towels are designed to absorb moisture and provide grip when wet. Most importantly, yoga towels are 100% machine washable and dryable, making your post-practice cleanup as simple as doing a load of laundry.
For more everyday care tips, see Care & Cleaning Tips for Yoga Mats.
Caring for Other Yoga Props
While you are focused on your mat, don't forget your other tools. Most of our fabric-based props are designed for easy care.
- Bolsters: Our Standard Yoga Bolster comes with removable covers. You can wash the cover on a cold, gentle cycle and hang it to dry. Never wash the inner foam or cotton filling.
- Straps: Cotton straps can be placed in a mesh laundry bag and washed with your towels. Hang them to dry to avoid shrinking.
- Blocks: Foam and cork blocks should only be wiped down with a damp cloth and mild soap. Never submerge them.
If you use props regularly, the Yoga Prop Guide can help you choose the right support for your practice.
The Hugger Mugger Commitment to Quality
Since 1986, we have focused on creating tools that stand the test of time. Whether you are using a classic Tapas® Original mat or a premium Para Rubber mat, the goal is the same: to provide a stable, clean foundation for your practice. By choosing the right cleaning method for your specific gear, you are not just maintaining a product; you are respecting your practice and the environment by reducing waste.
Bottom line: While the washing machine is a convenient tool for some microfiber-topped mats, most high-quality yoga mats prefer the gentle touch of a hand-wash or a simple daily wipe-down to maintain their integrity and grip.
FAQ
Can I put my Hugger Mugger Tapas mat in the washing machine?
We generally recommend hand-washing our Tapas® series mats with a damp cloth and mild soap to preserve their signature sticky surface. While some users have success with front-loading machines on a gentle cycle, the mechanical agitation can occasionally cause the edges to wear down faster than hand-washing would.
What happens if I put my yoga mat in the dryer?
You should never put a yoga mat in the dryer, as the high heat can melt the synthetic materials, cause natural rubber to become brittle, or ruin the adhesive bonds in multi-layer mats. Heat drying can also lead to the mat losing its non-slip properties, making it unsafe for practice.
Is it okay to use bleach to disinfect a yoga mat?
No, you should avoid using bleach or harsh industrial cleaners on your yoga mat. Bleach is too abrasive for most mat materials and can cause the surface to break down, crack, or discolor, and the residual fumes can be irritating during your practice when your face is close to the mat.
How do I know if my mat is open-cell or closed-cell?
A simple way to tell is the water test: drop a small amount of water on the surface of the mat. If the water beads up and stays on top, it is a closed-cell mat; if the water is absorbed into the material, it is an open-cell mat. Closed-cell mats are generally safer for surface cleaning, while open-cell mats require more careful rinsing and longer drying times.