7 Best Ways to Wash a Yoga Mat (2026): Our Picks

By Claire Whitaker

Updated November 2026

The best way to wash a yoga mat depends on what the mat is made of, how often you practice and how much sweat and oil it has collected. For most people, a gentle, pH-neutral cleaning spray or a set of mat wipes used after each session does the job without breaking down the surface. The picks below were chosen by comparing product specifications, brand reputation and the patterns owners tend to report about residue, odor and grip. We did not test these products ourselves, so treat the notes as a research summary rather than hands-on results. Each entry focuses on what the product is designed for, what it is made of and where it may fall short.

Our Top Picks

Quick Comparison

Manduka Yoga Mat Wash and Refresh Cleaning Spray

Manduka | Yoga Mat Wash and Refresh Cleaning Spray | Lavender | 8oz | 100% Natural Essential Oil Cleaning Spray for Yoga Mats, Fitness Equipment and Gym Accessories, Non-irritating, Pet Friendly

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Best for: Everyday cleaning of most mats

This is a practical choice for practitioners who want a single spray for regular upkeep. It is aimed at people who prefer a plant-based formula and a light lavender scent.

Key specs

• Size: 8 oz spray bottle
• Formula: 100% natural essential oil cleaner
• Also marketed for fitness equipment and gym accessories

Pros

• Brand designed specifically for yoga mats
• Pet-friendly and non-irritating formula, according to the listing
• Pleasant lavender scent

Cons

• Small bottle may run out quickly with daily use
• Scent may not suit everyone

Bottom line: A reliable first choice for someone who wants a brand-specific spray and a gentle, scented routine.

Studio TOV Organic Yoga Mat Cleaner Spray Made in the USA

Studio TOV Organic Yoga Mat Cleaner Spray Made in the USA | 8oz Spring Mint w Microfiber Cloth | Safely and Effectively Cleans All Mats and Pilates + Yoga Accessories

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Best for: Natural, pet-conscious households

This option suits people who want an organic-positioned cleaner and a bundled cloth for wiping. It works for a range of mats and pilates accessories.

Key specs

• Size: 8 oz spray
• Scent: Spring Mint
• Includes a microfiber cloth

Pros

• Bundled microfiber cloth adds convenience
• Made in the USA, per the product name
• Suitable for yoga and pilates accessories

Cons

• Mint scent is strong for some users
• Smaller volume than refill options

Bottom line: Good for those who want an organic-style spray with a cloth included and a fresh scent.

ASUTRA Yoga Mat Cleaner Spray Refill (Peaceful Lavender), 16 fl oz

ASUTRA Yoga Mat Cleaner Spray Refill (Peaceful Lavender), 16 fl oz (16oz) | Organic Essential Oils, No Slippery Residue, Deep-Cleansing for Fitness Gear & Gym Equipment

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Best for: Frequent, sweaty practice

The larger 16 oz volume makes this a sensible pick for people who practice several times a week and want to keep a refillable supply on hand.

Key specs

• Size: 16 fl oz refill
• Scent: Peaceful Lavender
• Formula: organic essential oils

Pros

• Larger volume offers better value over time
• Designed to avoid slippery residue, per the listing
• Works on fitness gear and gym equipment too

Cons

• Refill format requires a separate spray bottle
• Lavender scent is not for everyone

Bottom line: Best for regular practitioners who want a larger supply of a residue-free-positioned spray.

ASUTRA Yoga Mat Cleaning Wipes (Lovely Lavender)

ASUTRA Yoga Mat Cleaning Wipes (Lovely Lavender), 1 (1 Pouch = 30 Wipes) | Pouch (30 Wipes) – No Slippery Residue, Deep-Cleansing for Fitness Gear & Gym Equipment

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Best for: Quick cleanups on the go

Wipes suit people who practice in studios or gyms and do not want to carry a spray bottle. They are also handy for a fast wipe-down before class.

Key specs

• Count: 30 wipes per pouch
• Scent: Lovely Lavender
• Intended for mats and fitness gear

Pros

• Portable and easy to pack in a gym bag
• No spray or cloth needed
• Positioned as leaving no slippery residue

Cons

• Single-use wipes add ongoing packaging waste
• Less thorough for deep cleaning than a spray and cloth

Bottom line: A convenient addition for quick wipe-downs, though not a full substitute for periodic deep cleaning.

Mind Over Lather Yoga Mat Cleaner & Cleaning Spray 8oz

Mind Over Lather Yoga Mat Cleaner & Cleaning Spray 8oz 100% Natural Essential Oils | Lavender Mint | Cleans, Deodorizes & Restores All Mats | Non-Toxic

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Best for: Deodorizing stubborn odor

This spray is aimed at people whose mats have developed odor from heavy sweating. The lavender mint blend is meant to cleanse and freshen in one step.

Key specs

• Size: 8 oz spray
• Scent: Lavender Mint
• Formula: 100% natural essential oils, per the listing

Pros

• Positioned for both cleaning and deodorizing
• Non-toxic formula claim
• Works on all mat types, per the listing

Cons

• Strong essential oil scent may linger
• Small bottle size for frequent use

Bottom line: A good match for anyone whose main problem is odor rather than surface grime.

MELLOWBUFF Hand-Woven Cotton Yoga Mat

MELLOWBUFF Hand-Woven Cotton Yoga Mat – 100% Natural Cloth Yoga Rug for Hot Yoga, Exercise, Workout, Fitness & Meditation – Absorbent, Washable Yoga Rug, 78 x 28 Inches, Pack of 1 – BHUMI

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Best for: Hot yoga and easy machine washing

This is a cotton rug rather than a cleaner, but it addresses the same goal: a practice surface that can be washed. It suits people who sweat heavily and want something they can launder.

Key specs

• Size: 78 x 28 inches
• Material: 100% natural cotton, hand-woven
• Machine washable, per the listing

Pros

• Absorbent surface suits hot classes
• Can be washed in a standard machine
• Generous length for most users

Cons

• Cotton lacks the cushioning of a PVC or TPE mat
• May need a non-slip base for stability

Bottom line: Ideal for hot yoga practitioners who prioritize absorbency and easy laundering over cushioning.

Gaiam Yoga Mat Towel, Non-Slip Microfiber (Heron Lilac)

Gaiam Yoga Mat Towel, Non-Slip Microfiber (Heron Lilac) | Mat-Sized Fit | Quick-Dry Microfiber | Machine Washable | Hot Yoga & Pilates | 68"x24"

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Best for: Grip and sweat absorption on top of a mat

A mat towel sits on top of your mat and absorbs sweat, which reduces the amount of moisture reaching the mat itself. It is well suited to hot and power classes.

Key specs

• Size: 68 x 24 inches, mat-sized fit
• Material: quick-dry microfiber
• Machine washable, per the listing

Pros

• Protects the mat from sweat and oil
• Easy to wash in a standard machine
• Non-slip backing aids grip

Cons

• Shifts on slick mats if not secured
• Does not clean the mat underneath

Bottom line: A useful layer for sweaty practitioners, though it complements rather than replaces regular mat cleaning.

Buying Guide

Mat material

PVC, TPE, natural rubber and cotton respond differently to cleaners. Rubber can degrade with harsh alkaline products, and cotton holds moisture longer. Check the manufacturer’s care label before choosing a spray. Read more in our Best Yoga Mats guide.

Good picks for this: Manduka Yoga Mat Wash and Refresh Cleaning Spray, MELLOWBUFF Hand-Woven Cotton Yoga Mat

Cleaner formula

Look for gentle, pH-neutral or plant-based formulas, and avoid bleach, ammonia and abrasive scrubbers. Most manufacturers recommend diluting or testing on a small spot first.

Good picks for this: Studio TOV Organic Yoga Mat Cleaner Spray, Mind Over Lather Yoga Mat Cleaner

Format: spray, refill or wipes

Sprays suit regular deep cleaning, refills lower waste over time, and wipes are best for quick cleanups. Many practitioners combine a spray at home with wipes for the studio.

Good picks for this: ASUTRA Yoga Mat Cleaner Spray Refill, ASUTRA Yoga Mat Cleaning Wipes

Size and fit

Mat towels should match your mat’s length and width. A towel that is too short will slide, while one that is too long bunches. Check the dimensions listed before buying. For sizing context, see Standard Yoga Mat Length: What Size Fits You Best (Step-by-Step).

Good picks for this: Gaiam Yoga Mat Towel, MELLOWBUFF Hand-Woven Cotton Yoga Mat

Practice style and heat level

Hot and sweaty classes demand more frequent cleaning and absorbent layers. Slower practices like yin may need less frequent cleaning. For a slower style, see Yoga Mat for Yin Yoga: 4 Best Picks for Slow, Floor-Based Practice.

Good picks for this: Gaiam Yoga Mat Towel, ASUTRA Yoga Mat Cleaner Spray Refill

Scent and skin sensitivity

Essential oil scents differ widely in strength. If you have sensitive skin or allergies, choose lighter formulas and test a small area first. Consult a dermatologist or allergist if you have a known reaction to essential oils.

Good picks for this: Manduka Yoga Mat Wash and Refresh Cleaning Spray, Studio TOV Organic Yoga Mat Cleaner Spray

Durability and care routine

Wipe your mat after every session, clean deeply every few weeks, and air-dry it fully before rolling. Residue buildup and trapped moisture cause more damage than the cleaning itself. For mat carrying tips, see Yoga Mat Strap for Carrying: 7 Best Picks for Every Need (2026).

Good picks for this: ASUTRA Yoga Mat Cleaning Wipes, Mind Over Lather Yoga Mat Cleaner

FAQ

How often should I wash my yoga mat?

Wipe it after every session if you sweat heavily, and do a deeper clean about once a week or every few weeks depending on use. Hot yoga students often clean more frequently.

Can I put a yoga mat in the washing machine?

Most PVC and TPE mats should not go in a washing machine, because agitation and heat can damage the surface. Cotton and some specialty mats are labeled as machine washable. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions.

Can I use vinegar to clean my yoga mat?

Diluted white vinegar is a common home option, but it can be acidic for some mat materials. Test on a small area first and rinse well. Dedicated mat cleaners are formulated to avoid residue.

Why does my mat feel slippery after cleaning?

Leftover soap, oil or heavy fragrance residue is the usual cause. Wipe the mat with a damp cloth to remove residue and let it dry completely. Choose cleaners described as leaving no slippery residue.

How long should a yoga mat take to dry?

Drying time depends on the material and humidity, but most mats need several hours to air-dry fully. Avoid direct sun for long periods, which can weaken some materials.

Are essential oil cleaners safe for pets?

Some essential oils can be harmful to cats and dogs. Read the label and keep pets away until the mat is fully dry. If you have concerns about pet exposure, consult a veterinarian.

Do I need a towel on top of my mat?

Not always, but a mat towel helps absorb sweat in hot or vigorous classes and reduces how often you need to clean the mat itself.

Conclusion

The best way to wash a yoga mat is a regular routine: wipe after sessions, deep clean every few weeks and let the mat dry fully. For most people, the Manduka spray is a sensible starting point. Choose the Studio TOV or Mind Over Lather spray if you want a natural formula or stronger odor control. The ASUTRA refill suits frequent practitioners, while the wipes are best for quick cleanups. Hot yoga students may prefer the MELLOWBUFF cotton rug or the Gaiam mat towel. For persistent problems with stains or odor, consider a professional cleaning service and check your mat’s warranty.

Sources

• Consumer product safety information on household cleaners and chemical handling (cpsc.gov)
• Guidance on safer cleaning products and reading product labels (epa.gov)
• Background research on essential oils and skin sensitivity (nih.gov)

About Claire Whitaker

Claire Whitaker is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our yoga guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.