After a hot yoga session, it's important to clean your yoga mat thoroughly to remove sweat and odor. Here's how you can clean your yoga mat effectively:
- Start by preparing a cleaning solution. Mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle. Vinegar helps to eliminate bacteria and neutralize any odors.
- Begin by unrolling your mat on a clean surface. Lay a towel underneath to protect the area from getting wet.
- Spray the cleaning solution onto the mat. Make sure to cover the entire surface evenly. You can also add a few drops of essential oil for a pleasant scent.
- Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub the mat. Focus on areas that are more prone to sweat absorption, such as the palms and feet imprints.
- If your yoga mat has stubborn stains or smells, you can sprinkle a small amount of baking soda on the affected areas before scrubbing. Baking soda helps to remove odors and tough stains.
- Once you've thoroughly scrubbed the mat, wipe it down with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue or excess cleaning solution.
- After cleaning, hang the mat to air dry. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, as this can cause the material to deteriorate or fade over time.
- It's recommended to clean your yoga mat after every hot yoga session or at least once a week if you practice regularly. Regular cleaning helps maintain the hygiene and longevity of the mat.
Remember to always check the specific cleaning instructions provided by the manufacturer, as some mats may require different cleaning methods or be machine washable.
Best Yoga Mats Of 2024
1
Rating is 5 out of 5
BOBO BANANA 1/4 Thick TPE Yoga Mat,72"x24" Eco-friendly Non-Slip Exercise & Fitness Mat for Men&Women with Carrying Strap, Home Workout Mat for Yoga,Pilates& Floor Exercise (pink)
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Bobo banana yoga mat is made with SGS certificated TPE material.
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It neutralizes the advantages of traditional PVC or NBR material, which features higher elasticity, recyclable & better tear resistance.
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It can endure longer time than any other plastic and rubber mats when doing yoga practice. Parents can choose it as play mat for kids.
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It can be truly grippy and safe so you can do yoga postures like Hatha, Yin, therapeutic, restorative etc.
2
Rating is 4.9 out of 5
Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat Fitness & Exercise Mat With Easy-Cinch Carrier Strap, Teal, 72"L X 24"W X 2/5 Inch Thick
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FITNESS & EXERCISE MAT: Classic yoga mat is great for all types of fitness and exercise routines including yoga, Pilates and any floor exercise where additional cushion and support is appreciated.
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EXTRA THICK YOGA MAT: These 2/5 inch exercise mats make for the ideal all purpose fitness mat in the studio or at home, even around the house under knees or as a standing pad or cushion.
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SOFT CUSHION: This yoga mat made of NBR foam is designed to provide soft cushioning with the padded material for comfortable stretching and posing - an ideal yoga mat for beginners with comfort in mind.
3
Rating is 4.8 out of 5
Amazon Basics Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Gym Floor Mat with Carrying Strap, Cyan, 74 x 24 x .5 Inches
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Extra thick, cushy floor mat in cyan for yoga, gym, and everyday exercise
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1/2 inch thickness offers comfortable padded support and shock absorption; textured surface provides extra traction
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Durable foam construction offers stretchability and springs back into shape
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Elastic strap for secure rolled-up mat storage and easy over-the-shoulder carrying
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Wipes clean easily
4
Rating is 4.7 out of 5
BalanceFrom All Purpose 1/2-Inch Extra Thick High Density Anti-Tear Exercise Yoga Mat and Knee Pad with Carrying Strap, Black
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BalanceFrom All Purpose 1/2-Inch Extra Thick High Density Anti-Tear Exercise Yoga Mat and Knee Pad with Carrying Strap, Black
5
Rating is 4.6 out of 5
BalanceFrom All Purpose 1/2-Inch Extra Thick High Density Anti-Tear Exercise Yoga Mat with Carrying Strap, Pink
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69" long 23" wide ensures comfort for people of all shapes and sizes. With high density foam material, the 1/2'' thick premium mat comfortably cushions spine, hips, knees and elbows on hard floors
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With double sided non-slip surfaces, BalanceFrom all-purpose premium exercise yoga mat comes with an excellent slip resistant advantage to prevent injuries
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Exceptional resilience allow you to keep your balance during any exercise style. Moisture resistant technology makes the mat to be easily washed with soap and water
6
Rating is 4.5 out of 5
Gaiam Yoga Mat Classic Print Non Slip Exercise & Fitness Mat for All Types of Yoga, Pilates & Floor Workouts, Pink Marrakesh, 4mm, 68"L x 24"W x 4mm Thick
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LIGHTWEIGHT YOGA MAT: These durable, yet extremely lightweight exercise yoga mats give you just the right amount of cushioning your joints need during any yoga or fitness routine
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STICKY NON-SLIP TEXTURE: Yoga mat features a textured sticky non-slip surface for excellent traction and superior grip and a stylish design to keep you motivated and focused
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NON-TOXIC and 6P FREE - PVC yoga mat is a healthier choice for you and the planet and free of DEHP, DBP, BBP, DINP, DIDP and DNOP (Note: For best results unroll and air out your mat for 2-3 days before use - a harmless odor may be present when unwrapped)
7
Rating is 4.4 out of 5
Gaiam Essentials Premium Yoga Mat with Carrier Sling, Navy, 72"L x 24"W x 1/4 Inch Thick
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CLASSIC YOGA MAT: These durable, yet lightweight exercise yoga mats are extra-thick (1/4 Inch) for the additional cushioning your joints need during any yoga or fitness routine
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STICKY NON-SLIP TEXTURE: Yoga mat is featured in classic colors with a textured non slip surface for excellent traction and superior grip in all types of yoga, even heated practices and hot yoga
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NON-TOXIC & 6P FREE - PVC yoga mat is a healthier choice for you and the planet and free of DEHP, DBP, BBP, DINP, DIDP and DNOP (For best results unroll and air out your mat for 2-3 days before use)
8
Rating is 4.3 out of 5
Gaiam Yoga Mat Premium Print Reversible Extra Thick Non Slip Exercise & Fitness Mat for All Types of Yoga, Pilates & Floor Workouts, Mystic Sky, 6mm
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LIGHTWEIGHT & THICK YOGA MAT: These durable, yet lightweight exercise yoga mats are extra thick for the additional cushioning your joints need during any yoga or fitness routine
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REVERSIBLE: Yoga mat features a reversible design textured sticky non-slip surface for excellent traction and superior grip two design options to suit any mood will help to keep you motivated and focused
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NON TOXIC & 6P FREE PVC yoga mat is a healthier choice for you and the planet and free of DEHP, DBP, BBP, DINP, DIDP and DNOP (Note: For best results unroll and air out your mat for 2 3 days before use a harmless odor may be present when unwrapped)
9
Rating is 4.2 out of 5
Sunny Health and Fitness Yoga Mat (Blue), Model:31
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DURABLE TEAR-RESISTANT MAT: The tear-resistant mat will remain in-tact during more challenging or vigorous workout sessions.
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TEXTURED SURFACE: The resilient PVC material can withstand moderate to intense workouts. PVC Yoga mats with texture will grip to your floors easily without damaging them. The firm grip will keep the yoga mat from slipping.
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HIGH DENSITY FOAM: The high density padded mat will protect knees, elbows and feet from hard floors while protecting the floor underneath you.
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TEXTURED SURFACE: Our unique combination of cell material provides the perfect non-slip exercise mat. Workout mat provides greater stability so you can flow between poses safely and easily.
10
Rating is 4.1 out of 5
Gaiam Yoga Mat Premium Print Non Slip Exercise & Fitness Mat for All Types of Yoga, Pilates & Floor Workouts, Violet Blush Point, 5mm (05-64034)
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LIGHTWEIGHT & THICK YOGA MAT: These durable, yet lightweight exercise yoga mats provide additional cushioning your joints need during any yoga or fitness routine
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STICKY NON-SLIP TEXTURE: Yoga mat features a textured sticky non-slip surface for excellent traction and superior grip and a stylish design to keep you motivated and focused
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NON TOXIC & 6P FREE PVC yoga mat is a healthier choice for you and the planet and free of DEHP, DBP, BBP, DINP, DIDP and DNOP (Note: For best results unroll and air out your mat for 2 3 days before use a harmless odor may be present when unwrapped)
Can I use a steam cleaner to clean my yoga mat after hot yoga?
Yes, you can use a steam cleaner to clean your yoga mat after hot yoga. Steam cleaning can help remove sweat, bacteria, and odors from the mat. However, make sure to check the manufacturer's instructions for your specific yoga mat to ensure it is safe to use steam cleaning on it. Additionally, allow the mat to dry completely before using it again to prevent any moisture buildup.
Can I use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust and debris from my yoga mat after hot yoga?
Yes, you can use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust and debris from your yoga mat after hot yoga. Make sure to use the vacuum cleaner on a gentle setting or with a brush attachment to avoid damaging the mat's surface. Additionally, check the manufacturer's guidelines for any specific instructions on cleaning and maintenance.
Can I use baby wipes to clean my yoga mat after hot yoga?
Using baby wipes to clean your yoga mat after hot yoga is not recommended. Baby wipes are generally designed for gentle cleaning of a baby's skin, and they may not effectively remove the sweat, grime, and bacteria that accumulate on a yoga mat during hot yoga sessions.
It is better to use a specific yoga mat cleaner or a homemade solution. Many yoga mat cleaners are available in the market, formulated to effectively remove sweat, dirt, and bacteria without damaging the mat material. Homemade solutions, such as a mixture of water and vinegar or water and a few drops of mild detergent, can also be used to clean your yoga mat.
Always check the manufacturer's guidelines regarding cleaning instructions for your specific yoga mat, as different materials may have specific requirements.
What can I do if my yoga mat starts to smell even after cleaning it after hot yoga?
If your yoga mat starts to smell even after cleaning it after hot yoga, there are a few things you can do to help eliminate the odor:
- Clean it thoroughly: Make sure you clean your yoga mat properly after each use. Use a yoga mat cleaner or a mixture of mild soap and water, and wipe it down with a clean cloth or sponge. Rinse it well and let it air dry completely before using it again.
- Use a vinegar solution: If the smell persists, you can try using a vinegar solution to help neutralize the odor. Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle, spray it on the mat, and wipe it clean. Vinegar has natural antibacterial properties that can help eliminate odor-causing bacteria.
- Sun exposure: Another method is to expose your mat to direct sunlight. Hang it over a clothesline or balcony railing in direct sunlight, as the UV rays can help kill bacteria and eliminate odor. However, be cautious as excessive exposure can degrade the mat's material over time, so limit it to a few hours.
- Baking soda: Sprinkle baking soda onto the surface of your yoga mat and gently rub it in. Let it sit for a few hours or overnight to absorb the odors. Afterwards, use a brush or damp cloth to remove the baking soda and wipe your mat clean.
- Use essential oils: You can add a few drops of essential oils to help mask any remaining odor. Lavender, tea tree, or eucalyptus oils are commonly used for their antibacterial properties as well, which can help keep your mat fresh smelling.
Remember to follow the care instructions recommended by the manufacturer to avoid any damage to your yoga mat in the process.
