Cleaning your yoga mat correctly will prolong its life. Luckily, it is very simple to do. The most obvious thing is to read the manufacturer's instructions very carefully. Different type materials require different cleaning methods, so this should be obvious.. Unfortunately, some lost the original washing instructions for their yoga mats. If this happened, the best course of action is to opt for non-abrasive cleaning techniques.
Washing your yoga mat is very important. Hygiene is always a big concern and dirty mats give bacteria chance to grow. Since workouts usually imply perspiring you should never share your mat with someone else. Sharing your mat with someone else can lead to an unwanted fungal or bacterial infection.. Even your best attempts will not keep your yoga mat clean since it is used on floors and at times even outdoors. Sweating, combined with the above, can lead to a seriously dirty mat after just one session. Also, some yoga mats are
You could simply wash the mat yourself and leave it to dry, or let it dry clean. Some yoga mats are made of rubber or other synthetic and are thus quite easy to clean. A little dirt can easily be removed by simply wiping the mat with a damp cloth or sponge. A solution of 4 drops of The same principle for washing the rubber mats from your car could apply to more stubborn dirt. Simply wash it with a soft brush and soapy water. Soaking the yoga mat in warm, soapy water can be the only option for very tough dirt..
Be warned: do not use too much soap since it can cause problems later. Lots of people have found their mats becoming extremely slippery because an invisible film of soapy residue was left after the mat dried. The moment you start perspiring in your yoga session, you could find that the soapy film is enough to become dangerously slick.. Completely rinse the mat with clean water. Although some prefer to roll the mat in a towel overnight, you can just hang your yoga mat to dry..
Some people prefer not to use soap and claimed the following alternatives work just as well: 1) mixing 2 cups of water and a teaspoon of baking soda, (2) hydrogen peroxide, (3) a few drops of tea tree oil with water and my favorite (4) a 1/2 teaspoon of Dr. Bronner's Peppermint soap in a bowl of water. At least it smells great.
Hand washing or machine washing are good options for washing cotton yoga mats. The spin cycle of washing machines can damage certain cotton yoga mats. Rather remove the mat before the spin cycle starts. Try to avoid tumble drying your cotton mats, since they can cause damage. Rather let it dry naturally.
Prevention is always better than cure. Carry a handy spray bottle and some wipes with you to class. A very effective all-natural mat cleaning spray can easily be made yourself. Add three drops of tea tree oil, two drops of peppermint oil, and two drops of lavender oil and mix it thoroughly with water in a spray bottle. After each workout, quickly spray your mat and wipe it down. Avoid using any wipes that are alcohol based, rather choose natural wipes.
Sometimes, not matter how well you look after your yoga mat, cleaning it is no longer feasible. It would simply be better to throw it out and buy yourself a new mat. .
These quick cleanings will decrease the need for heavy cleanings dramatically. For hygienic reasons, you should carefully consider the condition of your mat regularly. At times it is better to get a new mat.
Following these tips will help you make the best of your yoga mat and keep it pristine for many months to come.
Author Resource:-
SJP Babrevian has been writing online articles for more than 3 years. Come visit his latest website over at http://www.cottonyogamats.webatu.com/ A nice page to read is about the best Yoga mat of all: the Manduka Yoga Mat.
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