Quick answer

Clean your yoga mat and props with a gentle approach: wipe or wash with mild soap and water, avoid harsh chemicals and excessive soaking, then dry completely away from direct heat. This preserves grip, prevents material breakdown, and keeps your practice hygienic. For eco-friendly mats, always check the care label first.

Why gentle cleaning matters for eco-friendly gear

Eco-friendly yoga mats and props are often made from natural or recycled materials that can degrade with harsh cleaners or heat. Abrasive scrubbing and chemical solvents may strip away the top layer that provides grip, turning a once-sticky mat into a slippery one. Similarly, natural rubber blocks can crack if soaked or dried too quickly. Gentle cleaning preserves the integrity of the material and extends the life of your investment.

Daily and weekly care routines

After each practice, wipe your mat with a damp cloth or a natural yoga mat cleaner to remove sweat and oils. For blocks and straps, a quick wipe-down is usually enough. Once a week, or more often if you sweat heavily, give your mat a deeper clean. Straps can be hand-washed with mild soap and warm water, then air-dried. Blocks should be wiped with a damp cloth and mild soap, but never submerged.

Deep cleaning your yoga mat step by step

Fill a tub or large basin with cool or lukewarm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap or a dedicated natural yoga mat cleaner. Submerge your mat and gently agitate with your hands. Avoid twisting or wringing. Rinse thoroughly with clean water until no soap remains. Press out excess water with a towel, then hang or lay flat to dry away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Ensure the mat is completely dry before rolling or storing.

Cleaning yoga blocks and straps

For yoga blocks, mix a solution of mild soap and water. Wipe each block with a soft cloth dampened with the solution, then wipe again with a clean damp cloth to remove residue. Do not soak blocks, especially those made from natural materials, as moisture can cause them to break down. For straps, hand-wash in warm soapy water, rinse well, and hang to dry. Avoid washing machines and dryers, which can damage the fabric and hardware.

Drying tips to prevent damage

Proper drying is crucial. Lay mats flat on a clean towel or hang them over a shower rod or clothesline. Ensure good air circulation. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade colors and degrade materials. Never use a dryer or heater to speed up drying. For blocks, pat dry with a towel and let them air-dry completely before use. Straps should be hung to dry, ensuring no moisture remains in the buckles or loops.

Choosing a natural yoga mat cleaner

If you prefer a DIY cleaner, mix water with a small amount of white vinegar or witch hazel and a few drops of tea tree or lavender essential oil. Test on a small area first. Avoid cleaners with bleach, ammonia, or harsh detergents. For store-bought options, look for plant-based, biodegradable formulas. Always follow the instructions on the label and your mat's care guide.

Your step-by-step cleaning routine

  1. Step 1: Pre-clean and spot treat: Shake off loose dirt and spot clean any visible stains with a damp cloth and mild soap. Mistake to avoid: scrubbing aggressively, which can damage the mat's surface.
  2. Step 2: Prepare your cleaning solution: Mix cool water with a few drops of mild soap or natural cleaner in a basin or spray bottle. Checkpoint: ensure the solution is not too soapy; excessive suds can leave residue.
  3. Step 3: Clean your mat: For deep cleaning, submerge the mat and gently agitate. For light cleaning, wipe with a damp cloth. Mistake to avoid: using hot water, which can warp or degrade eco-friendly materials.
  4. Step 4: Rinse thoroughly: Rinse with clean water until all soap is removed. Soap residue can make the mat slippery. Checkpoint: feel the mat; it should not feel slick or soapy.
  5. Step 5: Dry completely: Press out excess water with a towel, then hang or lay flat to dry away from direct heat and sunlight. Mistake to avoid: rolling or storing a damp mat, which can cause mildew.
  6. Step 6: Clean blocks and straps: Wipe blocks with a damp soapy cloth and dry immediately. Hand-wash straps and hang to dry. Checkpoint: ensure blocks are completely dry before use to prevent cracking.

Product care notes

  • W SunSoft Flow Pants 25" + Stringy Bra - Forest Deep: The W SunSoft Flow Pants 25" + Stringy Bra set includes the W SunSoft Flow Pants with a 25-inch inseam and the W SunSoft Stringy Crop Top Bra, both in Forest Deep. These garments are made from soft, stretchy fabric that should be washed gently to maintain shape and color. Always follow the care label to avoid damage.
  • U StarAir Train Shorts 4" - Midnight: The U StarAir Train Shorts 4" - Midnight are designed for active training and everyday comfort with a 4-inch inseam. These shorts are likely made from quick-drying fabric, but still require gentle washing to preserve fit and moisture-wicking properties.
  • W SunSoft Flow Shorts 6" - Black: The W SunSoft Flow Shorts 6" - Black are made with Rumi SunSoft fabric that is stretchy and moisture-wicking. To maintain the fabric's stretch and moisture management, wash in cold water and avoid fabric softeners, which can clog the fibers.