Sweat and bare feet – yoga mats often come into contact with these.
And those who practise outdoors may also expose their mats to dirt and moisture.
That’s why the DIY Academy in Cologne, Germany, recommends wiping the mat down after each session “with a mild cleaner or a damp cloth”.
Then leave the mat to dry completely in a well-ventilated room before rolling it up loosely and storing it horizontally in a dry place.
Avoid direct sunlight on the mat, as this can cause the material to fade or deform.
Cleaning agents can damage the mat in the long term – in the worst case, you will have to replace it.
The best cleaning agent for your yoga mat depends on the material it is made of.
Manufacturers often provide detailed information on this.
Anyone who uses cleaning or care methods that contradict the instructions does so at their own risk, according to Bernd Glassl from the German Cosmetic, Toiletry, Perfumery and Detergent Association (IKW).
It is therefore important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
But, sometimes, you may misplace the instruction leaflet or may not have kept the mat’s packaging.
Here is a rough overview of how to get your mat clean again.
Polyethylene mats can be cleaned with all-purpose cleaner or hand dishwashing detergent – preferably diluted with water.
For stubborn stains, use the concentrate, says Glassl.
TPE stands for thermoplastic elastomers.
Among other things, this material provides rubber with its elasticity.
According to the DIY Academy, these mats are best maintained by cleaning them with warm soapy water and a soft brush.
As the material is sensitive to abrasion, it is best not to use scouring pads.
Mats made of PVC plastic are usually durable and inexpensive.
According to the DIY Academy, they can also be cleaned with warm soapy water and a microfibre cloth.
Their closed cell structure makes them water-repellent, which is good for outdoor use as they are less susceptible to dirt and moisture.
However, the slightly oily feel can diminish with use and cleaning.
Glassl advises using wool detergent for mats made of virgin wool.
Always pay attention to the textile care symbol, e.g. the wash tub.
The symbol provides information on whether hand or machine washing is appropriate, as well as the washing temperature and programme.
You should also pay attention to the care symbol on cotton mats.
An empty triangle means that chlorine and oxygen bleach are permitted.
If there are two lines in the triangle, only oxygen bleach is permitted, such as heavy-duty detergent in powder, granule or tablet form, but no chlorine bleach.
Cotton mats are usually machine washable at 30°C, the association says.
Use natural detergents without fabric softener.
The mats should not be put in the dryer.
It is best to let them air dry, away from direct sunlight to protect the rubber coating.
Glassl advises wiping cork mats with a damp cloth, perhaps using diluted cleaner for cork floors or diluted all-purpose cleaner.
Consider that you can make two damp cloths by first, wetting one cloth and wringing it out as well as possible.
You can then place the well-wrung cloth on top of a dry cloth of the same size, then roll both cloths together and knead them firmly. – dpa
