Restore Your Flow: How to Clean Your Yoga Mat for Maximum Grip
By Ben Carter
Restore Your Flow: How to Clean Your Yoga Mat for Maximum Grip
That satisfying grip of a new yoga mat can feel like a superpower, anchoring you in every pose. But over time, sweat, oils, and dust can create a slippery surface, turning your downward dog into a downward slide. The good news is that restoring your mat's original tackiness is often a matter of a simple, effective cleaning. Knowing how to clean your yoga mat not only improves your practice but also extends the life of your most important piece of equipment. Let's dive into the proper techniques to bring back that grip.
Understanding Why Your Mat Gets Slippery
The primary culprit behind a slippery mat is buildup. Every practice leaves behind a microscopic layer of sweat, natural body oils, lotions, and dirt from your hands and feet. Over time, this film hardens on the mat's surface, creating a barrier that prevents your skin from making proper contact with the material. This is especially true for porous, open-cell mats designed for extra grip, as they can absorb these substances more deeply. A proper cleaning isn't just about hygiene; it's about stripping away this residue to reveal the mat's true, grippy texture underneath.
The Everyday Clean: A Quick Post-Practice Wipe-Down
For daily maintenance and preventing major buildup, a quick wipe-down after each session is crucial. Create a simple DIY spray by mixing equal parts distilled water and white vinegar in a spray bottle, adding a few drops of a gentle essential oil like tea tree or lavender for antibacterial properties and a pleasant scent. Lightly spritz your mat and wipe it down with a clean, soft microfiber cloth. This quick routine effectively tackles fresh sweat and oils before they have a chance to set in, keeping your mat fresh and ready for your next flow.
Deep Cleaning to Restore Serious Grip
If your mat feels slick despite regular wipe-downs, it's time for a deep clean. This method is more intensive and should be done every few months or as needed. Submerge your mat in a bathtub of lukewarm water with a mild cleaner, like a tablespoon of gentle dish soap. Let it soak for about 20 minutes, then use a soft cloth to gently scrub the entire surface. Drain the tub, and rinse the mat meticulously with clean water until all soapy residue is gone—leftover soap is a major cause of slipperiness. Gently press out the excess water (do not wring it out) and hang it to air dry completely, away from direct sun.
When to Say Goodbye: Is It Time for a New Mat?
While learning how to clean a yoga mat can work wonders, sometimes a mat is simply at the end of its life. If you've tried deep cleaning and the surface still feels slick, or if you see signs of flaking, cracking, or permanent indentation, the material itself has likely degraded. No amount of cleaning can restore a worn-out surface. An old, unsupportive mat can compromise your stability and alignment. If you suspect it's time for an upgrade, making an informed choice is key. The team at Consumer's Best has rigorously tested and reviewed the top yoga mats on the market to help you find the perfect one for your practice and budget.
