Read your mat’s care instructions. Most yoga mats are made from materials like natural rubber, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Their levels of absorbance vary. While vinegar, dish soap, and tea tree oil are commonly used in DIY cleaning solutions (including the one we recommend here), they may not be appropriate for all mats.In most cases, it isn’t necessary to disinfect a mat that you alone use. “Microbes are everywhere,” said Erica Hartmann, an assistant professor of civil and environmental engineering at Northwestern University at the time of our interview. “Don’t feel like your yoga mat has to be sterile for you to stay healthy.”While vinegar, dish soap, and tea tree oil are commonly used in DIY cleaning solutions, they may not be appropriate for all mats.Disinfectant wipes or sprays are generally not recommended for use on yoga mats. Harsh disinfectants, like bleach and alcohol, have the potential to degrade a mat over time. (Though the acidity of vinegar has the potential to do so, too.) It’s also possible for disinfectants to absorb into a porous mat — not ideal when breathing deeply during child’s pose. If you do choose to use a disinfectant, pick one that’s safe for skin contact.
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