How to Wash a Yoga Mat

Yoga mats are used mostly on floors. Some of them might not be as clean as they look. Before you use one, you should take the time to regularly clean it. If your hands are sticky after class or a short routine, then you know that a cleaning is long overdue. Follow these steps to find out how to clean it.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Yoga mat
• Cleaning wipes specifically for yoga mats
• Dishwashing soap
• Spray bottle
• Baking soda
• Cloth towel

Wash a Dirty Yoga Mat

1. Follow the manufacturer's directions. Since not all mats are made from the same materials, you will want to wash your mat according to the directions provided. If you have lost the cleaning instructions, stick to a nonabrasive cleaning process.
2. Decide just how dirty your mat really is. If all you need is a light cleaning, then you should create a solution of baking soda and water. Use a tsp. of baking soda to about two cups of warm water. Use a soft cloth to clean the dirty areas of your mat. Rinse the mat with clean water and dry with another cloth.
3. Deep clean your yoga mat by soaking it a tub of water. Use a kitchen sponge to scrub off the dirty spots. Avoid using detergents, as they will cause your mat to be slippery during use. A baking soda and water solution can be used for extremely dirty spots.
4. Dry your mat by rolling it with a towel (or two as you need to cover the length of the mat) and letting it rest overnight. In the morning, unroll your mat and hang it to finish drying.
5. Keep your mat clean by using a spray bottle of warm water or natural yoga mat wipes after each workout. Do not use alcohol based wipes on your mat.
6. Keep a few yoga mat wipes in your bag to do a quick clean before and after your workout. With basic maintenance, you should not have to do heavier cleanings very often.

Tips & Warnings

• Your feet are the number one culprit of dirty mats; so make sure they are clean before you begin your routine.
• You should wash a new yoga mat to break it in. This will make the mat softer and more pliable for when you practice.
• Use detergent and soap sparingly to clean your mat. If your mat becomes too slippery after using soap, soak it in a mixture of vinegar and water and then again in clean water.

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