How to Clean a Yoga Mat Without Chemicals the Easy Way

Knowing how to clean a yoga mat is just as important as your exercise routine. There's nothing worse than shifting into a downward dog position and catching a whiff of your mat. Truthfully, your yoga mat can be a bacteria magnet, harboring germs even when there’s no odor or visible dirt.

If you're not wiping down your mat regularly, you need to give it a quick scrub ASAP. But don’t sweat it—cleaning your yoga mat is easy, and you likely have all the ingredients on hand already. Here's how to rid your yoga mat of nasty germs—without chemicals—and exercise safely.

How Often to Clean a Yoga Mat

It's best to clean your yoga mat once a week, especially for anyone regularly practicing yoga. Viruses and fungi easily latch onto yoga mats and are particularly susceptible when used in shared spaces—like a gym.

If you have a history of skin disorders or fungal infections, consider cleaning your mat after each use. For daily cleaning, it might be easiest to pre-mix a natural cleaning solution in a spray bottle for easily spraying your mat after your workout.

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. Common yoga mat materials include vinyl, rubber (natural and recycled), and cotton (synthetic or organic).

While each material will provide a different texture and comfort level, in general, they can all be cleaned similarly—with soap and water. You may wish to adjust the cleaning products used when cleaning organic materials, so always check your mat's care guide.

While it's tempting to reach for a disinfectant spray or wipes with harsh chemicals, a natural method is best for cleaning a yoga mat since chemicals can damage the mat's material. Additionally, remember that your face and skin will probably be right up against the mat. If your mat absorbs the chemicals, you'll not only breathe them in, but they may cause skin irritations, too.

How to Clean a Yoga Mat With Vinegar

Follow these steps to routinely clean your yoga mat with natural ingredients.

What You Need:

• Water
• White vinegar
• Empty spray bottle
• Tea tree oil (optional)
• Soft cloth

Step 1: Make a Cleaning Solution

Combine equal parts water and vinegar (which has odor-fighting and anti-microbial properties) in a clean spray bottle. Add a few drops of tea tree oil (another natural anti-microbial that can also add a refreshing scent). Shake to blend.

Step 2: Spray and Scrub

• Lay your yoga mat on a flat surface indoors.
• Spray the mat liberally with your DIY cleaning solution, prioritizing visible dirty spots.
• Let the mixture sit for 10 to 15 minutes. The vinegar's disinfecting properties will be most effective if you give it time to work.
• Scrub the mat with a soft cloth from top to bottom, using a circular motion.
• Flip it over and repeat the steps on the other side.

Step 3: Hang to Dry

Hang the mat so that both sides can dry without trapping moisture underneath. (A smart spot? Over your shower rod or shower door.) Make sure it's completely dry before rolling it up, as a damp yoga mat can be a breeding ground for bacteria.

How to Deep Clean a Yoga Mat With Soap or Detergent

For a particularly grimy yoga mat that needs a deep clean, submerge the entire mat in warm water in the bathtub instead of wiping it down or spot-cleaning it. Only do this if your yoga mat can be soaked.

What You Need:

• Bathtub or large sink
• Mild dish soap or laundry detergent
• Sponge
• A heavy object (that can be soaked)

Step 1: Fill the Tub

Add water to a clean bathtub or large sink and mix with 1 tablespoon of mild dish soap or liquid laundry detergent. You'll want enough liquid to be able to cover the yoga mat.

Step 2: Scrub and Soak

Scour the grimy spots with a sponge while holding the mat under the water. Place something heavy on the mat (like a shampoo bottle) to keep it submerged. Let it soak for 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 3: Rinse and Dry

Drain the soapy water from the tub and rinse the mat well with fresh water. 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.

How to Keep Your Yoga Mat Clean Longer

The best way to keep a yoga mat clean longer is to lay a towel over it when practicing. Try this to help your mat stay clean between cleanings. To do this, lay the mat down on the same side each time you practice, and cover the side facing up with a towel, which will absorb your sweat and body oil. After every yoga session, toss the towel in the washing machine with your workout clothes.

Additionally, follow these tips to keep your yoga mat clean:

• Clean regularly. While it's unnecessary to spray and wipe down your yoga mat after every workout session, you can do so if you tend to sweat a lot, have a history of skin disorders, or are sick. Otherwise, the suggested weekly cleaning will suffice.
• Always dry the mat. Never store your yoga mat when wet or damp; moisture can encourage bacteria and mold growth. Whether it's sweat or water, you should let the yoga mat completely dry before rolling and storing it.
• Store properly. Consider hanging your yoga mat when storing it, which allows it to air dry thoroughly and prevents curled edges. You can also roll it and stand it up on one side in a well-ventilated space. (A woven basket is perfect for storing multiple yoga mats.)