Yoga mats are an important accessory for the practice of yoga, since they provide a soft surface on which to perform each yoga posture and also prevent you from slipping. It may take a long time for your mat to get dirty if you practice your yoga with clean bare feet, but practicing outdoors and constant use can make it dirtier than what you consider comfortable. Because some yoga postures require you to lay your face on the floor, such as child's pose, it is a good idea to keep your mat clean of odors and stains.
Washing a Very Dirty Yoga Mat
Step 1
Fill a large bucket or bath tub with warm water and add one tbsp. laundry detergent. Avoid adding more detergent, since any residue left on your mat can become slippery with your sweat during your future yoga practice and may cause an accident. Using less will also make it easier to rinse the mat once it is clean.
Step 2
Soak the mat in the soapy water for a few minutes, using your hands to stir it a little to loosen the dirt and stains.
Step 3
Hand wash all the dirt off of your mat by scrubbing it against the sides of the tub or against itself for stubborn stains.
Step 4
Rinse your mat with running water until no bubbles come out when you squeeze it.
Step 5
Ring out any excess water from your mat and lay it down flat over a dry towel.
Step 6
Roll the mat and the towel together and step on then in order to have the towel absorb as much water as possible from the mat.
Step 7
Unroll and remove the towel before you hang the mat to air dry over a chair or railing.
Washing a Slightly Dirty Mat
Step 1
Fill a 16-oz. spray bottle with warm water and three to four drops of dish washing soap.
Step 2
Shake well and spray the soapy water onto your mat, which should be spread out flat on the floor.
Step 3
Use a towel to rub the areas that have the most stains and wipe off with clean water.
Step 4
Pat dry with a towel and hang over a chair to air dry fully.
Tips and Warnings
- Keep your mat in a yoga mat bag in order to keep it clean as long as possible. If you are cleaning your mat using the spray bottle, clean one face of the mat at a time.
- Don't dry your mat in the sun or it will become stiff and uncomfortable to handle. Never use bleach or put your yoga mat in the drier.
Things You'll Need
- Spray bottle
- Dish washing soap
- Towel
- Terry cloth towel
- Detergent
- Chair or railing
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