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Calling all yogis! Here’s how to clean a yoga mat without ruining it.

Maryal Miller Carter   Paste BN
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An exercise or yoga mat is a great way to protect your joints and muscles from pain and injury while you work out, but the sweat and grime that builds up on your mat’s surface can quickly turn it into an unhygienic slip 'n slide.

Sure, you can purchase fancy yoga mat cleaning sprays, but it’s so much cheaper and easier to make your own at home. What’s more, this simple, effective DIY cleaning solution won’t just banish the funk and keep the stink at bay, it’s all natural and gentle as can be, so it won’t damage your mat or leave any toxic residue behind. Here’s how to clean a yoga mat naturally without ruining it.

Watch the video above to learn how to clean a yoga mat without ruining it.

How to clean a yoga mat without ruining it

  • For a gentle DIY cleaning solution, gather distilled water and alcohol-free witch hazel. Witch hazel is a mild, nontoxic ingredient that helps sanitize and deodorize. If witch hazel is unavailable, white distilled vinegar is a great alternative.
  • Create your solution by mixing 1 part witch hazel or vinegar with 4 parts distilled water. This ratio ensures safe and effective cleaning.
  • To eliminate odors, add a few drops of essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, or tea tree to your solution. Tip: Adding too much essential oil to your solution can leave your mat with an oily residue.
  • Generously spray the cleaning solution onto your yoga mat's surface. Using a soft, damp cloth or towel, gently wipe the mat to remove dirt and sweat from the surface.
  • Using a gentle cleaning solution like this for regular maintenance will help prevent damage to your mat during the cleaning process.

How to deep clean a yoga mat without ruining it

  • Deep clean your mat every few weeks, or as needed, to ensure its hygiene and longevity.
  • For a thorough cleanse, prepare a solution by mixing mild dish soap with water. This gentle and effective solution will help break down dirt, oil, and sweat residues.
  • After applying the soap and water mixture to the mat's surface, rinse it thoroughly to remove any soap residue. Make sure to rinse until the water runs clear.

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