The Best Way to Disinfect a Yoga Mat

Regular cleaning of your mat should be part of the yoga routine.

Yoga mats can be breeding grounds for germs, especially communal yoga mats at health and fitness centers. According to an article in "The New York Times," fungi and bacteria such as athlete's foot and plantar warts can be picked up from unclean exercise mats. Many yoga enthusiasts have their own mats, but these, too, need to be disinfected regularly if they are to stay germ-free and clean.

Things You'll Need

• Spray bottle
• Antibacterial dishwashing liquid
• Clean water
• Terry cloth or sponge
• Towel

Instructions

Spot Cleaning

1. Mix a solution of four drops of antibacterial dishwashing liquid with 2 cups of water, and put into a spray bottle.

2. Spray the dishwashing solution onto the soiled areas of the yoga mat, and rub lightly with a sponge or terry cloth.

3. Rinse the cloth with clean water, and wipe over the yoga mat to remove the soapy solution. Allow the mat to dry in the open air.

Whole-Mat Cleaning

1. Fill a bathtub or other container large enough to hold the entire mat with a weak solution of antibacterial detergent and water.

2. Submerge the mat and hand wash thoroughly, agitating gently in the water.

3. Rinse in water until the water runs clear. Make sure all the soap is removed. Squeeze out the excess water by rolling the mat in a dry towel and stepping on it.

4. Unroll the mat from the towel, and hang in the air to dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Disinfect communal mats by using the wipes provided in many gyms or health centers.

References

• Yoga Journal: How to Wash Your Yoga Mat
• "The New York Times": Communal Yoga Mats: Beware of Germs