Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Understanding Your Mat Material
- What Do You Clean Yoga Mats With? The Best Solutions
- DIY Yoga Mat Cleaning Recipes
- Step-by-Step: How to Clean Your Yoga Mat
- Cleaning Specialty Mats and Props
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- How to Tell When It’s Time for a New Mat
- Maintaining Your Practice Space
- Summary of Cleaning Tips
- Conclusion
- FAQ
Introduction
There is a specific moment at the end of a deep, satisfying yoga practice that every practitioner knows well. You are resting in Savasana (Corpse Pose), the room is quiet, and your breath has finally slowed. Then, as you roll to your side to press up, you catch a scent that isn’t exactly "zen." It is the unmistakable aroma of built-up sweat, dust, and skin oils trapped in your mat.
At Hugger Mugger, we have been crafting high-quality yoga tools since 1986, and we know that a mat is an investment in your well-being. Keeping that investment clean isn't just about hygiene; it is about preserving the grip and longevity of the surface you rely on every day. Whether you are using a classic sticky mat or a natural rubber surface, knowing what do you clean yoga mats with is essential for a safe and focused practice. This guide will walk you through the best cleaning solutions, DIY recipes, and material-specific care instructions to keep your space fresh. If you want help choosing the right surface before you buy, start with our Yoga Mat Guide.
Quick Answer: Most yoga mats can be cleaned using a simple solution of filtered water and a few drops of mild dish soap or a dedicated yoga mat wash. For daily maintenance, a 50/50 mixture of water and white vinegar is an effective natural deodorizer, though specific materials like natural rubber require specialized care to prevent drying out.
Understanding Your Mat Material
Before you reach for a spray bottle, you must identify what your mat is made of. Not all cleaning solutions are universal. Using the wrong cleaner on a specific material can lead to a slippery surface or, worse, cause the material to degrade prematurely.
Closed-Cell Mats
Most standard mats, including our Tapas® Original and Tapas® Ultra mats, are made from closed-cell PVC. These mats are non-porous. This means they do not absorb sweat or moisture. Because bacteria cannot easily penetrate the surface, these mats are generally the easiest to clean and can handle more frequent washing.
Open-Cell Mats
Open-cell mats are designed to be absorbent. These are often preferred by practitioners who sweat heavily or practice hot yoga, as the porous surface pulls moisture away to maintain grip. However, because they "breathe," they also act like a sponge for oils and bacteria. These require deep cleaning more often than closed-cell versions.
Natural Rubber Mats
Natural rubber, like the material used in our Para Rubber Yoga Mat, is a premium choice for grip and sustainability. However, rubber is a natural material that can oxidize or "dry out" if exposed to harsh chemicals or direct sunlight. Cleaning these requires a gentle touch and specific pH-balanced solutions.
Jute and Specialty Materials
Mats like the Sattva Jute Yoga Mat combine natural fibers with a backing. These materials provide a unique, earthy texture but cannot be submerged in water like a standard PVC mat. Spot cleaning is the primary method here.
What Do You Clean Yoga Mats With? The Best Solutions
When choosing a cleaner, your goal is to remove grime without leaving a residue that makes the mat slick. Here are the most effective options for various needs.
Mild Dish Soap and Water
A few drops of a clear, mild dish soap in a bowl of warm water is the gold standard for many teachers. Soap molecules are highly effective at breaking down the body oils that accumulate where your hands and feet most often touch the mat.
White Vinegar and Water
For a natural, cost-effective daily spray, white vinegar is an excellent choice. It has mild antimicrobial properties and is a powerful deodorizer. While the scent of vinegar is strong initially, it dissipates quickly as the mat dries, leaving it smelling neutral.
Commercial Yoga Mat Washes
If you prefer a ready-made solution, a professional mat wash is formulated to be non-slippery. We offer a dedicated Refresh Mist that uses essential oils to cleanse and provide a light, calming scent. These are particularly useful for practitioners who want a "spray and go" option for the end of class.
Essential Oils
Adding essential oils like tea tree, eucalyptus, or lavender to your cleaning solution provides more than just a pleasant smell. Tea tree oil, in particular, is known for its antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it a popular addition to DIY sprays.
DIY Yoga Mat Cleaning Recipes
Making your own cleaner is simple and allows you to control exactly what touches your skin. Always test a small, inconspicuous area of your mat before applying a new DIY solution to the entire surface.
For Daily Maintenance (All-Purpose Spray)
This recipe is ideal for closed-cell mats and general "wipe-downs" after a gentle Hatha or Yin session.
- Fill a spray bottle with 3 parts filtered water and 1 part white vinegar.
- Add 2-3 drops of tea tree essential oil.
- Add 2 drops of lavender or lemongrass oil for a fresh scent.
- Shake well before each use.
For Deep Cleaning (Soap-Based)
Use this when your mat feels "slick" from oil buildup or looks visibly dirty.
- Mix 2 cups of warm water with 2-3 drops of clear, mild dish soap.
- Use a soft cloth or sponge dipped in the mixture.
- Avoid "over-soaping," as any residue left behind will become slippery once you start to sweat during your next practice.
For Natural Rubber Mats
Rubber is sensitive to acidity. Avoid heavy vinegar concentrations.
- Use 4 parts water to 1 part vinegar, or skip the vinegar entirely and use a very diluted soap solution.
- Many practitioners find that a simple wipe-down with plain, damp cloth is sufficient for daily care, saving the soap for monthly maintenance.
Key Takeaway: The best cleaning solution depends on your mat's porosity. Closed-cell mats thrive with vinegar or soap sprays, while open-cell and rubber mats require highly diluted, gentle solutions to avoid trapping residue or damaging natural fibers.
Step-by-Step: How to Clean Your Yoga Mat
Whether you are doing a quick post-practice wipe or a deep monthly soak, the technique matters as much as the solution.
Routine After-Practice Cleaning
Step 1: Spray the mat. Unroll your mat on a flat surface. Lightly mist the entire top surface with your chosen cleaner. If you are using a Hugger Mugger Refresh Mist, a few pumps are usually sufficient.
Step 2: Wipe in circular motions. Using a clean, soft cloth (microfiber works best), wipe the mat from top to bottom. Use firm, circular motions to lift any surface dust or oils.
Step 3: Don't forget the bottom. Practitioners often forget that the bottom of the mat touches the studio floor, which sees significant foot traffic. Flip the mat and give the underside a quick wipe as well.
Step 4: Air dry before rolling. This is the most critical step. Never roll up a damp mat. Doing so traps moisture and creates an ideal environment for mold and bacteria. Let it lay flat or hang it over a chair until completely dry.
Deep Cleaning a Very Dirty Mat
If your mat is closed-cell, you can give it a "bath." Note: Do not do this with natural rubber or open-cell mats unless the manufacturer explicitly states they are submersible.
Step 1: Submerge in the tub. Fill a bathtub with a few inches of lukewarm water and a tablespoon of mild soap. Submerge the mat and let it soak for 5 to 10 minutes.
Step 2: Scrub gently. Use a soft cloth to scrub areas where your hands and feet usually land. Avoid using abrasive sponges or brushes, as these can tear the material.
Step 3: Rinse thoroughly. This takes time. Rinse the mat with clean water until all soap bubbles are gone. If you leave soap in the mat, it will be dangerously slippery later.
Step 4: Extract water. Lay the wet mat flat on a large, clean towel. Roll the mat and towel together like a sleeping bag and step on it to squeeze out the excess moisture.
Step 5: Hang to dry. Hang the mat over a shower rod or a laundry rack. Avoid direct sunlight, as UV rays can make PVC brittle and cause natural rubber to break down. It may take 24 to 48 hours to dry completely after a deep soak. For more detailed care notes, see our Care & Cleaning Tips for Yoga Mats.
Cleaning Specialty Mats and Props
While most of the focus is on standard mats, your other practice tools also require care to stay in top shape.
Natural Rubber Care
Our Para Rubber Yoga Mat is a teacher favorite because of its incredible grip. To keep that grip, avoid using any oils in your cleaning solution. Even essential oils can occasionally leave a film on natural rubber. Use a 1:1 mixture of water and a little bit of lemon juice or a very diluted vinegar spray to help "restore" the rubber's natural tackiness if it begins to feel dusty.
Jute and Cork Mats
Jute fibers and cork are naturally durable but do not like to be soaked. For a Sattva Jute Mat, use a very lightly dampened cloth with a tiny amount of soap to spot-clean. Cork contains natural phenolics that make it antimicrobial, so it generally requires less cleaning than other materials. A simple wipe with plain water is often enough.
Cleaning Yoga Blocks and Bolsters
- Foam Blocks: These can be wiped down with the same vinegar or soap solution you use for your mat.
- Cork Blocks: Use a damp cloth. Do not submerge them, as cork can swell if it absorbs too much water.
- Bolsters: Most of our bolsters, including the Standard Yoga Bolster, come with removable covers. These can be machine-washed on a cold, gentle cycle and air-dried. Wipe the inner liner only if necessary.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
In our nearly 40 years of experience, we have seen many mats meet an early end due to well-intentioned but improper cleaning.
Myth: "I can just throw my yoga mat in the washing machine." Fact: Most high-quality mats will be damaged by the agitation of a washing machine. The heat and spinning can cause the materials to stretch, tear, or lose their non-slip texture. Always check the specific care instructions, but hand-washing is almost always the safer bet.
Avoid Harsh Disinfectants
While it is tempting to use heavy-duty disinfecting wipes or bleach sprays—especially during flu season—these chemicals are often too harsh for yoga gear. They can cause the "sticky" factor of a mat to vanish and may cause skin irritation when you are in poses like Balasana (Child's Pose) with your face directly on the mat.
Say No to Direct Sunlight
Many people hang their mats over a balcony railing to dry. While the air is great, the sun is not. UV exposure is the fastest way to ruin a natural rubber or PVC mat. It causes "sun-rot," leading to cracking and flaking. Always dry your gear in the shade or indoors.
Skip the Excessive Oil
A few drops of essential oil in a large spray bottle are fine. However, using "beauty oils" or concentrated essential oils directly on the mat will create a permanent slick spot. This is a safety hazard during poses like Downward-Facing Dog, where your hands need to be firmly planted.
How to Tell When It’s Time for a New Mat
Regular cleaning extends the life of your gear, but no mat lasts forever. Even with the best care, the materials eventually lose their integrity. If you notice any of the following, it might be time to visit our mat collection or take the Yoga Mat Quiz to find a replacement:
- Pilling or Flaking: If small bits of the mat are sticking to your clothes or the floor after practice, the material is breaking down.
- Loss of Grip: If you find yourself sliding in standard poses despite a thorough cleaning, the "tack" of the material has worn away.
- Thinning Spots: Look at where your hands and feet usually go. If the mat is significantly thinner or "bottoming out" in those areas, your joints aren't getting the support they need.
- Persistent Odor: If a deep soak and vinegar scrub can't remove a sour smell, bacteria have likely moved into the core of an open-cell mat.
Note: For practitioners with sensitive wrists or knees, a thinning mat can lead to discomfort. If your mat no longer provides the cushioning it once did, consider upgrading to a thicker option like the Tapas Ultra or adding a wedge for wrist support.
Maintaining Your Practice Space
Saucha, the yogic principle of cleanliness, suggests that our external environment reflects and influences our internal state. A clean mat is more than a hygienic necessity; it is a sign of respect for your practice. When you unroll a mat that smells fresh and feels grippy, you remove a layer of distraction.
We recommend keeping a small "care kit" near your practice space. A spray bottle of your favorite cleaner and a dedicated microfiber cloth make it easy to maintain a routine. If you practice at a studio, carry a travel-sized mist in your bag so you can wipe your mat before you even leave the room. If you want a broader setup for blocks, straps, and support tools, the Yoga Prop Guide is a helpful next step.
Summary of Cleaning Tips
To keep your equipment in top shape, follow these simple rules:
- Wipe daily: Use a light spray after every practice to prevent oil buildup.
- Deep clean monthly: Depending on your sweat level, give your mat a more thorough scrub every 4-8 weeks.
- Check the material: Use vinegar for PVC, but be extra gentle with natural rubber and jute.
- Dry completely: Always air dry flat or hanging; never roll up a damp mat.
- Avoid heat: Keep your mat away from dryers, radiators, and direct sunlight.
Conclusion
Finding the right tools for your yoga journey is a personal process, and taking care of those tools is a vital part of the practice itself. Whether you are using a veteran Tapas Original that has been with you for a decade or a brand-new Para Rubber mat, proper maintenance ensures that your gear supports you reliably. Since 1986, we have seen how the right equipment can transform a practice, and we are committed to helping you make yours last. If you want a quick comparison before replacing an older mat, our Yoga Mat Guide can help you narrow it down.
By knowing what do you clean yoga mats with and establishing a consistent routine, you ensure that every time you step onto your mat, you are stepping into a clean, supportive, and focused environment. If you are unsure which cleaning products are best for your specific Hugger Mugger mat, or if you think it might be time for a fresh start with a new surface, explore our guides or use our Mat Quiz to find your perfect match.
FAQ
Can I use Clorox or Lysol wipes on my yoga mat?
It is generally not recommended to use harsh household disinfecting wipes on yoga mats. These cleaners often contain chemicals that can degrade the mat's surface, making it slippery or causing it to flake. Furthermore, the residue left behind can cause skin irritation during close contact. For softer props that need regular upkeep, see our Care & Cleaning Tips for Yoga Props.
How do I get the "new mat smell" to go away?
Natural rubber and some PVC mats can have a strong scent when first unpacked. To help it dissipate, unroll the mat and let it air out in a well-ventilated room or a shaded outdoor area for 24-48 hours. Wiping it down with a 50/50 vinegar and water solution can also help neutralize the initial odor.
Is it safe to put a yoga mat in the dryer?
No, you should never put a yoga mat in the dryer. The high heat can melt or permanently deform the materials, and it can also pose a fire hazard. Always air dry your mat by hanging it over a sturdy rod or laying it flat on a clean surface.
Why is my yoga mat still slippery after I cleaned it?
If your mat is slippery after cleaning, there is likely a soap residue left on the surface. Ensure you rinse the mat thoroughly with plain water after using any soap-based cleaners. If you have a new mat, it may also have a "break-in" film from the manufacturing process that requires a few more sessions or a salt scrub to remove.