It’s hard finding the best yoga mat for you. Once you find it, you want to look after to get the safest and longest use out of it. As a yogi your focus is on your practice, you do not want to worry about discomfort or slipping during a yoga session. Over the years we have made mistakes with our yoga mat, in this article we share what we have learned to save you time and money. You will learn how to a clean cork yoga mat in five simple steps, how often you should clean it and the best cleaners to use and ones to avoid.
5 Simple Steps to a Clean Cork Yoga Mat
Remove surface dirt and debris with a soft bristled brush or cloth.
Put some mild soap and water in a spray bottle. Do not use harsh cleaners.
Spray the soap and water evenly over the mat and let it soak in for a few minutes.
With brush or cloth gently scrub or wipe in circular motions to clean the mat.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water and let it either air dry or use a clean dry towel.
How Often Should You Clean Your Cork Mat?
It is best to clean your cork mat after each session, especially if you are doing the more rigorous types of yoga that make you sweat.
You can be less strict if you are doing a gentle practice. Even in this case it is best to wipe away debris that it might have collected.
Even if we clean our cork yoga mat after each session, being human we will rush the cleaning, so it is a good idea to give it a deeper clean once a month.
Which Cleaners to Use
The simplest and easiest cleaner to use it is mild soap and water in a spray bottle, however there are other options:
Natural Mat Cleaners: These are available to purchase and are made specifically for a cork yoga mat. Make sure the ingredients are all natural and free of harsh chemicals.
Homemade Cleaners: If you wish to make your own cleaner other than soap and water, here is an option:
Ingredients:
1 cup of distilled water
1/4 cup of white vinegar
5-10 drops of tea tree essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
In a spray bottle, combine 1 cup of distilled water and 1/4 cup of white vinegar.
Add 5-10 drops of tea tree essential oil to the mixture for its antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Shake the spray bottle well to combine the ingredients. Now it’s ready for use.
Avoid household cleaners, they contain harsh chemicals that will your damage the cork.
Can You Use Essential Oils to Clean Your Cork Mat?
You can use essential oils to clean your yoga mat, but use them sparingly and dilute them, otherwise they will damage the cork. Once a month is sufficient.
Although it is best to stick with gentle soap and water mixture, if you want to occasionally use essential oils, consider these:
Tea Tree oil is known for it’s antibacterial and anti fungal properties. Us this to disinfect and clean your mat.
Lavender Oil can be used to give your cork mat a fresh feel and smell.
Lemon Oil is known for it’s natural cleaning properties and can be used to remove stains.
How to Store a Cork Yoga Mat
It is important to store your yoga mat properly so it keeps it’s shape and cushioned firmness. Storing it correctly will also extend it’s life span and ensure it is ready to use for your next yoga session.
Clean and air dry it completely before storage so the mat does not develop mold and bacteria.
With the cork facing outwards tightly roll your mat and tie it with a strap to prevent it from unrolling. This is essential to keep your mat flat. Never fold your yoga mat.
Store it in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight and other heat sources. Sunlight and heat will cause that mat to crack by drying it out.
Why Cork Yoga Mats are a Good Choice
A cork yoga mat has great qualities that make it a good choice for your yoga practice.
Hygenic
Cork is antimicrobial and hypoallergenic this makes it naturally resistant to bacteria and germs.
Less Odour
Because they are naturally antimicrobial they are less likely to develop odour.
Comfortable
Cork is both firm and cushioned. Giving you both comfort and stability during your yoga practice.
Cork mats have a naturally non slip surface. Making them ideal for Hot Yoga and other demanding yoga styles which make you sweat a lot.
Eco Friendly
As they are made from natural and recyclable materials, cork yoga mats are not only Eco friendly but also sustainable compared to the options.
Cork’s durability means it can stand lots of wear and tear making it a great environmentally friendly choice.
Choosing the Right Cork Mat For You
Thickness : Cork yoga mats thickness ranges from 3mm to 6mm. Thicker mats offer more cushioning for your joints, while thinner mats have the advantage of being easier to carry. Some people prefer a softer feel others a more firm feel, choose which thickness feels right to you.
Size: Most yoga mats are standard 68” x 24”, but you may prefer a longer or wider mat. The size you choose will depend on your body and the space you practice in.
Texture: Choose the texture that feels right to you. Some mats have a smoother surface, while others rougher feel.
Eco Friendly Level : Cork is a renewable resource and is biodegradable. Check if the mat is made of high quality sustainably harvested cork and is properly manufactured to avoid premature cracking or damage
Summary: How to Clean a Cork Yoga Mat
Cork Yoga mats are an excellent choice for your practice, however, they need to cleaned and stored correctly in order to get the most out of them.
Firm and Cushioned
They are cushioned, firm and non slip, ideal for sweaty yoga sessions.
Natural
They are naturally antibacterial and hypoallergenic and although they are hard wearing it’s still important to clean cork yoga mats regularly to maintain their hygienic properties and life span.
Use the Right Cleaner
The simplest and easiest way to clean them is (but no less effective) is a mild soap and water solution in a spray bottle. Avoid cleaners that have harsh chemicals and are not specifically made for a cork mat.
You can use essential oils, but sparingly and diluted.
Storage
Clean your mat and let it air dry before storing it in a dry place away from sunlight. Roll it and tie it with the cork facing outwards.
Focus on Your Practice
A cork yoga mat is a great choice. Look after it and you will get safe long use out of it, allowing you to concentrate on your yoga practice.