Have you ever considered how dirty and full of germs your yoga mat is? If you haven’t thought about it, maybe it’s time you did!
Yoga is a great form of exercise and a way to rid your body of toxins, improve flexibility, increase mental focus and reduce the physical effects of stress on the body. Because yoga is a fast growing sport, the demand brings more classes, more people and — yes, you guessed it — more germs.
Those who enjoy yoga may feel the need to frequently buy a new towel and mat due to the bad odor that stays behind from bacteria and sweat. Instead, this DIY cleaning spray will keep your yoga mat fresher for longer!
Why you should eliminate bacteria
We know that bacteria grows in warm, moist environments, which means your yoga class is the perfect breeding ground for germs. If you’re not cleaning your mat on a regular basis, you could pick up something nasty. Think about it: your mat touches a floor where people have been sweating and walking, then you place your face, hands, feet and forehead on the mat.
Bacteria can cause all kinds of health issues including athlete’s foot, staph, allergies, viral infections and even planter’s warts. The last thing you want to worry about is health issues when you’re putting time and effort into getting healthier on the mat.
This recipe contains the superstar apple cider vinegar (ACV) to freshen and disinfect your mat. Even better, this all-natural product at your fingertips means you aren’t harming yourself or your surroundings, unlike other cleaners.
Eucalyptus essential oil
Eucalyptus oil comes from the leaves and tops of the branches of the eucalyptus tree. It’s a great oil to add to the mix because of its antifungal and bacteria-fighting abilities. You’ll be ridding your mat of all those bad germs that can cause so much trouble for you. Fun fact: You can also use eucalyptus as for a powerful household cleaner.
Melaleuca essential oil
Melaleuca has rare plant qualities, including being antibacterial and antifungal. This key ingredient kills bacteria, parasites and pathogens to help keep your mat odor and germ-free for all of your future yoga workouts.
Homemade DIY Yoga Mat Cleaning Spray
Ingredients
- 1 cup filtered water
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 30 drops eucalyptus essential oil
- 30 drops melaleuca essential oil
Equipment
- 16-oz glass spray bottle
Instructions
1. Just mix all of the ingredients into your 16-ounce spray bottle and shake it up well.
2. Spray your yoga mat thoroughly. Wipe with a clean towel to dry off. Get in the habit of using this spray after every yoga class keep the germs at bay.
— Leilani Hampton
