Best Practices for Keeping Your Yoga Mats & Space Clean

Maintaining a clean and hygienic yoga practice is not only essential for your well-being but also enhances your overall yoga experience. A fresh and clean yoga mat not only provides a pleasant environment for your practice but also helps to prevent the accumulation of germs and bacteria. In this blog post, we'll delve into the best practices for keeping your yoga mats and space clean, ensuring you have a safe and enjoyable practice every time.

1. Regular Cleaning is Key

The cornerstone of maintaining a clean yoga practice is regular cleaning. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or just starting, ensuring that your yoga mat is free from sweat, dirt, and bacteria is of paramount importance. Using a reliable yoga mat cleaner like MatGuard USA's Yoga Wipes or Yoga Disinfectant Spray can make this task effortless. These products are specially formulated to effectively cleanse your mat without causing any damage. Our yoga mat cleaner spray was specifically formulated to prevent infections. 

2. Choose the Right Cleaning Products

When it comes to cleaning your yoga mat, it's vital to choose the right cleaning products. MatGuard USA offers a range of effective products that are specifically designed to clean and disinfect yoga mats. The Yoga Wipes are convenient and easy to use, while the Yoga Disinfectant Spray offers a quick and efficient way to disinfect your mat. By using these products, you can ensure that your mat remains clean and safe for your practice.

3. DIY Yoga Mat Cleaner Recipe

For those who prefer a more natural approach, crafting your own yoga mat cleaner is a great option. At Matguard we strongly suggest sticking to our entire collection of yoga products but we love to help! Here's a simple recipe that you can try:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup distilled water
• 1/4 cup witch hazel
• 5-10 drops of tea tree oil
• 5-10 drops of lavender oil
  Instructions:
• Mix the distilled water and witch hazel in a spray bottle.
• Add the tea tree oil and lavender oil.
• Shake well before each use.
• This DIY yoga mat cleaner recipe not only keeps your mat clean but also infuses a pleasant aroma to enhance your practice.

4. Proper Mat Storage

Effective cleaning goes hand in hand with proper mat storage. After each practice session, roll up your mat with the top side (the side you practice on) facing outwards. This prevents moisture and sweat from being trapped inside, reducing the risk of bacterial growth. When storing your mat for an extended period, make sure it's completely dry to prevent mold and mildew.

5. Focus on High-Touch Areas

Areas that come into direct contact with your hands, feet, and body during your practice are considered high-touch areas. These spots tend to accumulate sweat and bacteria more quickly. Before and after your practice, take a moment to wipe down these areas using a yoga wipe or disinfectant spray. This simple practice can significantly contribute to the overall cleanliness of your mat.

6. Don't Forget Your Space

While keeping your yoga mat clean is crucial, maintaining a clean practice space is equally important. Regularly clean the floor or surface where you place your mat. Sweeping or vacuuming the area can help remove dirt and dust particles that could end up on your mat during practice.

7. Hygiene Etiquette

In a communal yoga setting, it's essential to practice good hygiene etiquette. If you're using studio-provided mats, consider using a yoga towel or placing a yoga wipe over the mat for an additional layer of cleanliness. After your practice, make sure to clean the communal mats using a disinfectant spray or wipes if provided.

8. Cleanliness for Branded Mats

If you're a proud owner of branded mats like Lululemon yoga mats, following proper cleaning guidelines is crucial to maintain their quality. Lululemon recommends using a mild soap and water solution or their specially formulated Mat Renew Spray. However, always ensure to check the manufacturer's guidelines to avoid damaging the mat. Our expert tips for cleaning yoga mats from Lululemon would be to apply our Yoga Disinfectant spray to the mat. 

In conclusion, maintaining a clean yoga mat and practice space is a fundamental aspect of your yoga journey. Regular cleaning, choosing the right products, and incorporating good hygiene practices can help you create a clean and safe environment for your practice. MatGuard USA's Yoga Wipes and Yoga Disinfectant Spray offer reliable solutions to keep your mat fresh and germ-free. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or a beginner, following these best practices ensures that your yoga practice remains a source of physical and mental well-being.