For years, yoga mats were only made from polyvinyl chloride, also known as PVC. As the discipline evolved in popularity, so did its equipment. Materials were explored to create mats that would work best with yoga poses. You can now find yoga mats made from a variety of substances, including rubber. Rubber yoga mats are common and are generally considered safe for humans as well as the environment.
In Comparison
As far as safety goes, a rubber mat appears to be a safer choice than a polyvinyl chloride one, which The New York Times has described as "toxic plastic." While natural rubber can have an intense smell when new, that aroma does not seem to present any danger and will fade when you let the mat air outside before using. The only apparent disadvantage to rubber over the standard PVC is that it is not as sticky, a factor to take into consideration for yoga poses.
Eco-Friendly
The most eco-friendly mats are ones that are biodegradable and free of chemicals. Rubber mats fit this description. Some are even made from recycled rubber, a further positive note when you are looking for an environmentally sound product. But you will pay more for a recycled rubber mat. If you can't afford the extra cost, a natural rubber mat is still considered a greener purchase than one made of PVC, which is difficult to recycle.
Latex Allergy
One exception to the safety rule comes if you have a latex allergy. Since latex is a product of the rubber tree, the use of anything made from rubber can be life-threatening to someone with this allergy. If you have a latex allergy, make sure you request detailed information on any yoga mat you are considering purchasing. If you have doubt about a material within the mat, consult a health care professional before using it. The use of a mat that contains rubber can cause reactions from rashes to anaphylactic shock in someone allergic to latex.
Considerations
Whether your mat is made from rubber, cotton or any other material, you need to take care of it if you want it to be safe. A yoga mat is lying on the ground on one side and has your sweaty body, hands and face on the other. To keep it free of germs and the dirt and chemicals that may be on the floor, you must keep it clean. Read the instructions that come with your mat for details on how to thoroughly clean and disinfect its particular material on a regular basis.
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