Clean a yoga mat by wiping it with mild soap and water, then air-drying completely before rolling it up.
For the full breakdown, see our best Yoga Mat Non-Toxic guide.
The right way to clean a yoga mat depends on its material. Get this wrong and you’ll leave a slippery film or trap moisture that breeds mildew.
What You Need For a Basic Clean
Skip specialty products unless you want them. A simple routine works for nearly every mat, from cheap PVC to premium natural rubber.
- A soft cloth or microfiber towel
- Warm water
- A few drops of gentle dish soap
- A spray bottle (optional but handy)
Moderation is key: too much soap leaves a slippery residue, and too much water can damage the mat’s core.
The Step-by-Step Wipe Down
For most mats, a quick wipe after practice keeps things fresh. Here’s the process that works, per REI’s expert advice.
Step 1: Mix your solution. Fill a spray bottle with warm water and add a drop or two of dish soap. Shake gently.
Step 2: Spray the cloth, not the mat. Spraying directly onto the mat can oversaturate it and let moisture seep into edges. Mist your cloth until damp but not dripping.
Step 3: Wipe in circular motions. Start at one end and work across, lifting sweat and dirt. Flip the cloth and repeat on the other side—the underside collects floor dust.
Step 4: Rinse with clean water. Dampen a fresh cloth with plain water and wipe again. This removes soap residue that can make you slide in downward dog.
Step 5: Air-dry completely. Lay flat or hang over a rod, rack, or railing. Wait until fully dry before rolling—storing a damp mat invites mildew and odor. Keep out of direct sunlight, which degrades material over time.
This routine handles most needs. For heavy use or lingering smell, it’s time for a deeper clean.
When and How to Deep Clean
Deep cleaning depends on your mat’s cell structure. Check the care label or manufacturer’s website before doing anything more aggressive than a wipe-down.
Closed-cell mats—most PVC and TPE—resist moisture and are easiest to care for: a thorough surface wipe with soap and water usually suffices. They should generally not be submerged.
Open-cell mats—common in natural rubber and some premium polyurethane—absorb moisture for better grip but need gentler handling. Many can handle a brief soak, but only if the manufacturer says so.
| Mat Material | Cleaning Intensity | Key Caution |
|---|---|---|
| PVC (closed-cell) | Surface wipe only | Avoid submerging; water can get trapped between layers |
| TPE (closed-cell) | Surface wipe only | Check manufacturer guidance; some TPE blends are fragile |
| Natural rubber (open-cell) | Brief soak allowed if approved | Never use hot water; it can break down the rubber |
| Polyurethane (open-cell) | Brief soak allowed if approved | Air-dry flat; hang-drying can stretch the material |
| Cork (closed-cell base) | Surface wipe only | Avoid soaking; cork can warp and peel |
| Jute (closed-cell base) | Surface wipe only | Use minimal water; jute is slow to dry |
A habit that reduces deep-cleaning frequency: lay a towel over your mat during sweaty practices to catch moisture before it reaches the surface.
Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive sponges, and excess soap—these can damage the surface. When unsure, plain soap and water is the broad fallback for nearly every mat.
FAQs
Can I clean a yoga mat with vinegar?
A vinegar-and-water solution is popular but not right for every mat. Vinegar’s acidity can degrade natural rubber and some adhesives over time. For PVC mats, a very diluted mix can work, but mild dish soap and water is safer across all materials. Check manufacturer instructions before trying anything beyond soap and water.
How often should I clean my yoga mat?
Can I put a yoga mat in the washing machine?
Only if the manufacturer explicitly says it’s safe. Most mats will be damaged—the agitation can tear material and the spin cycle can warp shape. When in doubt, stick to hand-washing with mild soap and water.
References & Sources
- REI. “How to Clean a Yoga Mat.” Covers step-by-step cleaning methods and material-specific guidance.