Knowing how to clean a yoga mat is just as important as yourexercise routine.
There’s nothing worse than shifting into a downward dog position and catching a whiff of your mat.
If you’re not wiping down your mat regularly, you gotta give it a quick scrub ASAP.
Photo: Jamie Grill/Getty Images
Here’s how to rid your yoga mat of nasty germswithout chemicalsand exercise safely.
Viruses and fungi easily latch onto yoga mats and are particularly susceptible when used in shared spaceslike a gym.
If you have a history of skin disorders or fungal infections, consider cleaning your mat after each use.
Considerations Before You Get Started
Before cleaning your yoga mat, check the manufacturer’s care instructions.
Yoga mats come in various materials and have varying degrees of absorbency.
Additionally, remember that your face and skin will probably be right up against the mat.
(A smart spot?
Over your shower rod or shower door.)
Only do this if your yoga mat can be soaked.
You’ll want enough liquid to be able to cover the yoga mat.
Place something heavy on the mat (like a shampoo bottle) to keep it submerged.
Let it soak for 10 to 15 minutes.
Hang it over the side of the tub or on the shower rod to air dry.
Be sure it’s completely dry before storing or using.
Try this to help your mat stay clean between cleanings.
After every yoga session, toss the towel in the washing machine with yourworkout clothes.
If it says “machine washable,” go ahead and throw your mat in the machine.
Use the gentle cycle and don’t use bleach.
Remove it promptly when the cycle ends, and air dry the mat on a clothesline or drying rack.
Steer clear of the dryer.
If the instructions don’t specify that your yoga mat can be machine-washed, avoid this method.
It’s not worth damaging your mat when hand washing your yoga mat is easy.
Flu viruses can survive on a yoga mat for 24 hours.
Cold viruses can survive for several days.
Fungi that cause skin infections can grow on yoga mats and last for months.
Flip it over and repeat the steaming process on the other side.
Then, hang it up to thoroughly air dry.
Both methods will neutralize body odors with minimal effort.
