Caring for Your Yoga Mat

During a yoga practice, we’ll likely stand, sit, and lay on our yoga mats. Our hands, feet, and even faces make contact with it several times throughout a practice. Over time, the natural oils and even bacteria from our skin transfer to the mat. When practicing outside or in a heated space, grime and germs build up more quickly. But how do we safely remove all of that sweat, skin, oil, and bacteria?

Ideally, you should clean your mat after every practice, but even weekly is probably adequate. If you’re practicing in a heated studio or perspire moderately or more during a practice, you should wipe it down immediately after each practice.

To clean your mat after a practice or after a few practices, grab a stainless steel spray bottle, some water, white vinegar or witch hazel, tea tree oil, and - if you like - your favorite pure essential oil for scent. (Note: the oil for scent should not contain a carrier oil like coconut, grapeseed, or sesame oil. Something citrus-y or containing lavender are our favorites for a fresh and calming scent!) 

Making your Mat Cleaner Mixture

1. Add a 1:4 ratio of vinegar/witch hazel to water to your spray bottle. I usually start with ½ cup vinegar and 2 cups of water. Close the top and shake well.

2. Open the lid and add 3-6 drops of tea tree oil and 2-4 drops of your favorite essential oil for scent (if using).

3. Close the lid and shake again.

Cleaning Your Mat

1. Lay your mat out on a flat, sturdy surface and spray it evenly with your cleaner.

2. Let sit for 5-10 minutes.

3. Wipe thoroughly in a circular motion with a cotton or microfiber cloth.

4. Repeat, as necessary, to remove grime or dirt that you can see.

5. Turn your mat over and get the back in the same manner.

6. If you’re able, leave your mat unrolled for 2-12 hours to dry completely.

More information

Using vinegar, witch hazel, willow bark extract, and/or tea tree oil has been shown to remove microbial material from mats. You don’t need to use all four! Choose one or two and mix appropriately with water. Do NOT use alcohol-based cleaners or bleach/bleach wipes to clean your mat. Use caution when applying essential oils - use them conservatively (just a few drops per spray bottle)! 

Some people put their mats in the washing machine without detergent for a deeper clean. Check the specifications of your mat to see if this is a safe option for your mat. I don’t do this on my natural rubber mat. A better method is to clean with a spray frequently, rather than deep clean occasionally.