Best Yoga Mat Cleaners
Sure, you could use on hand kitchen concoctions that will technically sanitize and remove unwanted bacteria, but these products might be a little too harsh on the PVC and will leave hard and unwanted odors in its wake. Yoga mat cleaner will not only sanitize but will also leave behind pleasant scents such as lavender that will help you achieve your perfect zen in your next class.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Product Purity
This was one of the very first things that we looked at when considering a product. If it had a long list of chemicals that we couldn’t even begin to pronounce, we would typically move on to the next product. The aim of the game when it comes to keeping your gear clean is to utilize chemicals that you wouldn’t mind coming in contact with your skin, and that is also considered to be non-toxic.
Essential oils were something that was a must in pretty much all products. You might assume that essential oils are just used to make things smell better and enhance your mood, but they also have pretty powerful antibacterial properties, which are perfect for cutting through the bacteria that lurks on the surface of your gear after a good session.
Therefore, products that simply utilize minimal ingredients such as distilled water and various oils might not feel like they are really going to be able to get your surface clean, but they are actually the best concoction out there on the market for your specific need. When working with ingredients such as essential oils, companies can sometimes walk a fine line between too little oil (which can become sticky) and too much oil (which can make surfaces too slick.
It’s hard enough to hold your arms and legs in place for a downward dog- the last thing that you want is for your gear to be too slippery. We made sure to read what users have to say about any issues with possible residue and how it affected their poses.
Ease of Use
Another important thing that we looked at was how easy each product was to use. Some products out there on the market required the users to wipe their gear down with a damp towel after using their product to remove the possibility of any residue to be left behind. To us, that just didn’t seem realistic. You are most likely going to be using these products while you are in a studio after class, and you won’t have the time to dedicate to a thorough cleaning.
That’s why we gravitated to designs that not only has a simple and lightweight formula that was easy to spray onto your yoga blocks or other gear, but we also like companies that provided small microfiber towels so that you will have all of the tools on hand to give your gear a quick cleansing before rolling it up and hitting the road.
Value
No one ever wants to spend a lot of money on the tools we need to maintain our gear and keep it looking good as new- it’s just not as fun and exciting as buying the gear itself. That’s why we wanted to make sure that we selected products that kept the price low but still used all natural ingredients that were considered to be safe.
And surprisingly, when utilizing minimal and natural ingredients that almost everyone can pronounce, they price tag for these types of natural products are actually quite affordable. Even when companies throw in a little extra towel in addition to their formula, we noticed that the price tag typically didn’t rise over the cost of a low-end mat.
Top 10 Picks
1. ASUTRA
This option from ASUTRA is one of the most popular options for all active yogis because it is offered in a gentle formula that uses 100 percent natural ingredients, and it leaves behind a fresh scent that isn’t overpowering. It also comes with a small cloth to ensure that you will always have to tools in our bag to ensure that all of your gear is bacteria and odor free.
Read moreProduct Purity
What users love the most about this option is that it is composed of ingredients that are 100 percent natural and non-toxic. Ingredients include a myriad of essential oils such as lavender, coconut, olive, tea tree, and jojoba oil. Users love that this product doesn’t leave a sticky and oily residue.
Ease of Use
The bottle that this product in is one of it’s greatest aspects because it comes in a very small container that will be very easy to slip into a gym bag or even a small purse without taking up all that much room. When you are finished with your class, simply spray a modest amount onto the surface and use the included microfiber towel to wipe away any excess.
Value
Considering that users will only receive about 4 ounces of solution, the price is just a little bit more expensive than other options out there on the market. However, this solution has a higher concentration of essential oils than most, and it comes with a high-quality microfiber cloth that makes cleaning a little easier, making it an incredible value in our book.
Summary
If you are in the market for something that is easy to toss into a gym bag, is made from all natural ingredients that are going to be easy on your skin, and leaves behind a pleasing scent- this is an excellent option to prolong the life of your gear.
2. Mind Over Lather
Mind Over Lather is yet another brand that uses a blend of all natural ingredients that comes in an easy to carry container that is perfect for popping into your gym bag for when you need it. What users love about this product is that it comes with just a little bit more than similar 4-ounce options, and it comes in at an affordable price point that users appreciate.
Read moreProduct Purity
There are no drying alcohol agents or hard to pronounce chemicals in this product. It is composed of distilled water, and all of the best antibacterial essential oils such as tea tree, witch hazel, and eucalyptus. The scent of this product is lavender mint, which means every time that you spray it on your gear, it will have the fresh scent of lavender and mint.
Ease of Use
The bottle of this product is just a tad bigger than its 4-ounce counterparts (it hold approximately 8 ounces). However, it is still small enough to toss into a gym bag for when you need it. The top of this design has a reinforced cap so that you won’t have to worry about it shimmering off in your bag and having to contend with a lavender soaked mess. To use, simply spray it onto your surface and wipe it down with a soft cloth.
Value
This option is just a little bit more affordable than the ASUTRA option. While the ASUTRA product comes with the addition of a microfiber towel, this unit comes with 4 more ounces of solution (about 8 ounces total), and it is offered at about the same price point that will set you back about the same price as a single Saturday class in a studio.
Summary
The Mind Over Lather is great because it uses a fantastic blend of essential oils that will leave your gear smelling fresh and clean, and it also uses some of the more potent oils that are designed to fight off bacteria that can grow at the end of a particularly difficult class.
3. Aurorae
Each time you set up your gear for a session at a local studio, you are most likely looking to get something different after every class. The benefit of the Aurorae solution is that it comes in a pack of 4, and each bottle has a scent that is catered to achieve a certain state of mind through the use of essential oils. Because it comes in a pack of 4, you get to choose how you will be feeling that day.
Read moreProduct Purity
There is nothing unnatural about the ingredients in this solution. Users can expect all-natural sources such as distilled water, coconut oil, and olive oil. It also has aloe vera inside, which is something that isn’t found in a lot of solution. Adding aloe vera is perfect because your skin is often making prolonged and direct contact with your gear.
Ease of Use
What we loved most about this product is that it comes in a pack of 4 four ounce bottles that each have a different effect such as calming, energizing, healing, and unscented. Each unit comes in a very small spray bottle that is a cinch to throw into your gym bag for when you will need it. Simply spray the solution onto your gear and wipe it down with a soft cloth, and you are ready for your chaturanga.
Value
The bad news about the Aurorae option is that it comes in at a pretty steep price point. However, considering that you will receive 4 uniquely scented bottles as well as the addition of a microfiber towel to wipe things down this is actually a really great value. Plus, if you decide that you simply want one bottle (as well as the towel) the price tag is similar to the ASUTRA or Mind Over Later options.
Summary
For those willing to spend just a little bit extra to have a unique set of scents that will accent your gear with smells that reflect your current mood, but can also sanitize- this is an excellent option.
4. Greener Cleener
What we liked most about Greener Cleener is that it comes in at a very handsome price point that will likely last you a very long time. Don’t let the name fool you, however, because this unit doesn’t have the same level of natural ingredients as some of the other eco-friendly options out there on the market. However, if you wanted something that is really going to kill any bacteria using limited ingredients that will be safe for your mat, this is the ticket.
Read moreProduct Purity
Unlike some of the other options that use a blend of water and oils, this is just a little bit different. Ingredients include saponified coconut oil, acetic acid, and a blend of natural oils. Saponified coconut oil simply means that the oil has been heated (usually with water) and has an alkali added to the mixture to give it more soaplike properties. Also, acetic acid might seem a little concerning, but it basically has all of the same chemical properties as vinegar, which is another safe way to clean and protect your gear.
Ease of Use
This unit comes in a 16-ounce spray bottle, which may make it just a little bit more difficult to throw into your bag because of the size of the bottle. To use, Simply spray the solution on to your gear, and wipe it down with a soft cloth. Due to the fact that this unit uses coconut oil, you will need to make sure that you wipe up all of the excesses or you are going to have a slippery surface for your next class.
Value
What we liked most about this option is that comes in at a very affordable price point. It costs about the same as the ASUTRA option, however, users will receive an additional 12 ounces of solution.
Summary
If you are a bit of a germaphobe and worry that water and oil blends just aren’t going to cut it to ensure that your gear is bacteria free for your next class, but you don’t want to employ any harsh chemicals- this is a great option that is the best of both worlds.
5. Manduka
Manduka is another serious solution that is able to kill the bacteria and cut through grime on almost any type of gear. While it doesn’t tout the same level of natural ingredients like some of the other brands, it is still considered to be safe, non-toxic, and biodegradable.
Read moreProduct Purity
The ingredients listed on this bottle include water, natural essential oils, and a vegetable oil-based surfactant. While it seems that this option has ingredients that may not be immediately recognizable, it is still considered to be safe, non-toxic, and eco-friendly.
Ease of Use
Users will have the option of selecting a size that ranges from 2, 8, and 32 ounces. It is important to note that the 32-ounce option does not come in a spray bottle. For smaller sizes, simply spray the solution onto your gear, and wipe it down evenly with a cloth. Before you roll it back up, be sure to wait until it dries completely- which shouldn’t take all that long. Users will also have the option of picking out their favorite scent, which includes options such as lemongrass, ginger grass, citrus, or palmarosa.
Value
What we liked about this option is that it comes in at a pretty affordable price point that runs about in the middle of the road compared to other brands. What’s great about this option is that users will be able to select a 32-ounce option that will likely last them about the life of their gear, and it comes in at a price tag that won’t break the bank.
Summary
If you wanted to select something that is really going to be able to clean terribly sweaty and gross surfaces while still leaving behind a nice and fresh scent, this is a great choice.
6. Saucha
The Saucha option id perfect for those that like to take their show on the road, and want something that is each to pack into even small gym bags for when you will need it most. It is made from all natural materials out of California and has a pleasant scent that will help you reach your inner calm in your next session.
Read moreProduct Purity
This option doesn’t use any harsh chemicals or alcohol to remove bacteria and dirt from surfaces. This unit uses a blend of plant-based oils as well as the addition of fragrant essential oils that when used properly will not leave a slippery residue when dried.
Ease of Use
To use this product, simply spray your gear down with a light layer- a little goes a long way with this solution. After it has been sprayed down, use the microfiber towel that is included with purchase to wipe down any excess solution. What users really love most about this option is that it dries incredibly quickly, so you can wipe it down, wait a few seconds, and roll your gear back up when it is time to leave.
Value
Users can select between 4 oz bottle and an 8-ounce bottle. The 4-ounce bottle will set users back about the same amount as many of the other options such as ASUTRA. We feel that this option is a great deal because it has a great working solution in a small and compact bottle, and it comes with a microfiber towel with purchase.
Summary
Saucha is the perfect way to end each and every session. It is small and compact, and the formula is lightweight enough that it dries very quickly. Plus, it leaves behind a fresh lavender scent that will greet you the next time you unroll your gear for your next class.
7. Oxyvibes
With the picture of a meditating cow on the label of this product, users can rest assure that this product is made from all natural plant-based ingredients that are never tested on animals. Users love this option because it comes in a very compact container that will fit perfectly in the front pocket of a gym bag, and it has a lingering scent that is notable, but not overpowering.
Read moreProduct Purity
Users can expect to find all-natural ingredients inside this bottle. Oxyvibes uses BioPure Technology to ensure that the cleaning agents are incredibly safe and non-toxic but also as powerful as removing stains, sweat, and odors. It has a pleasant citrus scent and is a water-based product that is going to be safe on almost all of your gear.
Ease of Use
What we really liked most about this option was the long and narrow spray bottle that offered a wide spray range to cover the most ground. To use, simply spray down your gear with this product, and then use the microfiber towel that is included with purchase to wipe away any excess moisture.
Value
This is one of the most affordable options out there on the market. Users will only receive 4 ounces of solution, but the inclusion of the microfiber towel, as well as the lower price point, make this a really fantastic value.
Summary
For those that are looking for something that comes in a very small bottle that will fit in cramped gym bags, and also wants something that is powerful enough to erase the sweat and grime from a brutal workout- this is a really great choice that will set you back about as much as you would spend on a cup of coffee after your class.
8. Luna Lifestyle
We really liked just about everything about this product- from the sleek and compact bottle all the way to the ingredients used for the solution. While it does have a few shortcomings that can be a result of not using it properly, this is a great choice to keep all of your gear looking like new and smelling fresh.
Read moreProduct Purity
Luna Lifestyle doesn’t use alcohol-based ingredients that can not only be drying to your gear and make it break down quicker than normal, but it can also be very drying to your skin, especially if you use your gear daily. This water-based formula is accented with primary coconut, oil, and jojoba oils, and is punctuated with the scent of geranium, bergamot, and rosemary.
Ease of Use
This product is sold in a 4-ounce bottle that is a cinch to throw into the front pocket of a gym bag or purse for when you need it, and it is potent enough to tackle even the most frustrating odors and stains. Simply spray the solution over the surface of your gear, and use the microfiber cloth that is included with purchase to wipe off any excess solution that may make your gear a little slippery.
Value
The cost of this product runs pretty par for the course in comparison to other similar 4 ounce options that utilize essential oils as their main antibacterial component. We feel that this solution in conjunction with the microfiber towel is an excellent deal.
Summary
The Luna Lifestyle option is small and compact, but the solution packs quite the punch in not only removing dirt and grime from your gear, but it also leaves a refreshing smell that will be appreciated to your mind as well as your neighbors in your next class.
9. Nature Skin Shop
Aside from the adorable pooch on the label engaging in a little upward dog, there is a lot more to love about this product. Each batch is made by hand in a small shop in Los Angeles and uses only natural and non-toxic ingredients that are great for you as well as your gear.
Read moreProduct Purity
Nature Skin Shop Upward Dog does not use any hard chemicals such as abrasive alcohol or any chemicals that are hard on your skin. Their products are non-toxic, preservative free, hypoallergenic, biodegradable, and most importantly- never tested on animals. Users can select from a few scents that include lavender, lemongrass and lavender, and orange guava.
Ease of Use
Users really like the trigger on this spray bottle, Instead of pressing down with a finger, users pull back on the trigger with their hand. Nature Skin Shop Upward Dog recommends about 20 pumps from their bottle to completely cover the surface of your gear, and then wipe it down with a soft cloth. Be sure to wait until the surface is completely dry before you roll it back up or it may smell a little mildewy when you unroll it next.
Value
What we really like is the affordable price point of this option. It comes in an 8-ounce bottle, and it costs significantly less than many of the other options out there on the market that only offer up about 4 ounces.
Summary
Users love that this design has an easy-to-use bottle, and it leaves a fresh scent on the surface of their gear without being too overpowering. If you were looking for something that was a little more gentle on your nose as well as your gear, this is an excellent option.
10. Black Diamond Stoneworks
Forget those tiny 4-ounce bottles that only last a few short months, because maybe you want something a little more substantial. The Black Diamond Stoneworks option comes in a giant gallon bottle, and it is made to last quite some time without costing you all that much money. It may not utilize all of the organic ingredients as some of the others, but this solution is still considered to be biodegradable and phosphate free.
Read moreProduct Purity
The active ingredient in this solution is Ethoxylated Alcohols Surfactants. It may not have the same pleasing ring to it as many of the other brands that utilize ingredients that are more recognizable, but what it lacks in natural components it makes up for in its ability to really get off of the gunk and grime off of your gear while still offering a neutral pH balance that will prolong the life of your gear as well.
Ease of Use
Unlike some of the other options out there on the market, this option is offered in a large gallon bottle instead of in a small and compact spray bottle. What this means for you is that you won’t be able to pop this option into your gym bag without first transferring it to a separate spray bottle. To use, pour a little bit of the solution onto your gear, and use a rag to wipe it down as well as absorb the excess solution that may be left behind.
Value
Our favorite feature of this product is that it comes in at a very affordable price tag. Users can buy a bottle that will hold more than enough solution for an entire class worth of mats that cost about the same amount as ordering a large pizza at the end of a, particularly brutal class.
Summary
If you want something that is going to last for the long haul, and really has enough kick to remove some of the more stubborn odors and stains, this is going to be just the ticket.
Sources
- 10 NATURAL AND ORGANIC YOGA MAT CLEANERS TO KEEP YOURS FRESH, Buying Guide ,
- Top 10 Best Yoga Mat Cleaning Sprays in 2019, Buying Guide ,