The same way we clean and wash our home and clothes we need to take care of our yoga accessories.
Especially the yoga mats and rugs. Here is how to disinfect a yoga mat.
How do you disinfect a yoga mat at home?
No matter what kind of yoga mat you have. Try to avoid strong chemical and aggressive detergents. It's way easier to disinfect flat and hard surfaces but when talking about yoga mat we need to pay little more attention. The best way to disinfect a yoga mat or properly clean it is to properly wash it. In that case, gems or bacteria have a small chance to survive inside your mat.
How long can bacteria live on a yoga mat?
That depends on what type of the mat you owe. Here is an explanation from professional cleaning company Zeppelin. ''So how long do they live on surfaces? In general, they can persist as long as there is enough moisture or water to sustain them. So however long it takes for a surface to completely dry is the answer to the question. Keep in mind that porous surfaces in humid environments can maintain moisture for months. That means the bacteria can survive in those pores on the surface for months. Because bacteria can live and multiply on surfaces for hours or even days, it’s recommended to have a cleaning routine that involves addressing surface area cleanliness and sanitation throughout the day.''
As you can see, the bacteria are super happy in a natural and moisty environment and can survive for a month if you don't pay close attention.
Therefore, we highly recommend you to get a cotton yoga mat since it's possible to clean it easily and efficiently!
Make a cleaning your Routine. From time to time - put yourself to work and do the deep cleaning.
Here is a way how deep clean a cotton yoga mat or yogarug
a.) Manual way - more gentle
- Put the mat in a sink or bathtub filled with warm water and natural soap. You don’t need too much soap—just 1 tablespoon for every gallon of water. (Avoid hot water, as it may damage the mat.)
- Submerge the mat in the water and allow it to soak for 5 minutes. Then lightly scrub it with a soft cloth.
- Rinse your mat with clean water to remove any soap residue.
- Once your mat is washed, shake it out. Then allow it to air dry for as long as it takes to be completely moisture-free.
b.) Using washing machine - Eco program & Low temperature
- Put the mat in a washing machine
- Insert the natural detergent or soap nuts and choose a program
- Choose an Eco program or Gentle wash - avoid high temperatures cause it might shrink and damage your yoga rug. Only temperatures up to 30°C
- Once your mat is washed, shake it out. Then allow it to air dry for as long as it takes to be completely moisture-free.
To deep clean a natural rubber or plastic yoga mat
- Lay your mat out on a flat surface.
- Mix warm water and a few drops of natural soap in a bowl. (Be careful not to add too much soap.)
- Dip the rag into the soapy water, then clean the mat from top to bottom, prioritizing dirty spots, using a circular motion.
- Wipe the mat clean with a towel.
- Air dry for at least 30 minutes.
Can you use Clorox on a yoga mat?
Answer is NO!
Clorox is a very aggressive bleach. It's very efficient in killing germs and bacteria but only on hard surfaces.
Cotton yoga mat or any other natural yoga mats might be destroyed. The bleach is very aggressive and will weaken the fabric.
Not only will you lose the color of your yoga rug but you might end up with a 'burned hole'' in it.
If you would like to know how to dry a yoga rug please read our article here.
Have a good day!
Practice clean
Martin & Monika
Team Leela