The practice of yoga has been around for thousands of years already and it has become more popular in recent years, especially in western culture. It is a total workout for the mind and body that is not only used to tone and strengthen the body but also for its health benefits. The practice of yoga can be leveled up with the use of yoga tools. Some of the most common yoga tools include exercise balls, yoga blocks, trapeze, straps, wheels, and yoga mats. The yoga mat determines one’s personal space and fence during yoga. These yoga mats also help yogis and yoginis strengthen their hold, preventing their hands and feet from slipping during different poses or asana. It also serves as a cushion and protects our body whenever poses are done directly on the ground.
Whether one decides to rent or buy their own yoga mat, it is important that the yoga mat is kept clean. The practice of yoga is an exercise with hundreds of different forms and styles, which will cause the body to sweat. That also means that there are a hundred ways to get in contact with bacteria, germs, and viruses. This may not only cause a person to become sick; it could also produce a bad odor on the mat.
There are many ways of cleaning yoga mats. It could be using soap and warm water, or commercial cleaners. But it is important that we find a way that would make sure that the mat is disinfected with soapy water. The method of cleaning that mat will also vary depending on the type of mat.
Lululemon yoga mats are some of the most popular yoga mats used in yoga. These Lululemon yoga mats are best for having different thicknesses, being long-lasting and durable. It is famous for being made of natural rubber on one side and coated in polyurethane on the other. Products or mats that are coated by polyurethane are moisture and sweat-absorbing. Which will be great in preventing slipping during yoga especially if you sweat a lot. The material is also treated with Ultra-Fresh antibacterial treatment. This was added to Lululemon products to prevent bacteria and molds from building up on the mat.
Even if Lululemon yoga mats have this added feature, it is still highly recommended that Lululemon yoga mats are cleaned after every usage to make sure that they will last for a long time. Different brands of yoga mats expressed unique cleaning techniques and instructions specific to their brand, especially that each brand has specific materials used. Lululemon mat cleaning is very easy.
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How to Clean Lululemon Yoga Mats
Learn how to clean lululemon mat the right way. These are the best cleaning tips for lulu mats.
1. Using essential oils
Essential oils are not only famous for having a good scent, but it is also famous for having natural anti-bacterial and antifungal properties. That is why many homemade cleaning recipes include essential oils. Some of the most commonly used essential oils for cleaning are tea-tree and lavender which have properties that fight germs, bacteria, and viruses; rosemary and cinnamon are both famous for their antibacterial and antiseptic properties; and eucalyptus which is known as a natural germicide. This is actually my go-to method for cleaning the yoga mats in yoga studio or home.
What you need: Spray bottle, 2 to 4 oz of filtered water, Tea-tree and lavender essential oil, or any essential oil
Add two drops of tea tree and a drop of lavender essential oil in 2 to 4 oz of filtered water. Witch hazel or vinegar can be added which are both good antibacterial agents. The essential oils can be mixed and matched, whichever works for you best. Transfer the mix into the spray bottle and shake. Spray the whole mat with the mixture.
2. Using baking soda and lemon juice
Baking soda and lemon juice are not only ingredients for cleaning yoga mats, but this mixture is also an all-around natural cleanser that works without the harsh chemicals found in commercial cleaners and it is also cheaper. The baking soda helps remove stains and deodorize the yoga mat. The addition of lemon helps eliminate bacteria and provides a fresh smell.
What you need: One teaspoon of baking soda, freshly squeezed lemon juice, 8 oz of water
In a bowl or small basin, add a teaspoon of baking soda first, and then add the lemon juice. The mixture of baking soda and lemon juice should form bubbles. Add 8 oz of water and mix. Dip a washcloth in the mixture and use it to wipe the yoga mat. Air-dry the yoga mat after.
How Often Should Lululemon Yoga Mats be Cleaned?
Deep cleaning the yoga mat once a week is okay for those who have regular yoga sessions, or you can use the spray mixed with clean water and essential oils and spray the yoga mat before and after each yoga practice. Although, if the mat is being used outdoors on grass or it is exposed to kids or pets then, you may want to consider cleaning it more often. Even if the yoga mat is not being used regularly, it could still accumulate dirt when it is stored. Dusty yoga mats are not healthy at all since the exercises also require proper breathing, which will be difficult if the yoga mat is dirty and dusty.
Cleaning your yoga mat regularly is a good practice as it does not only kill bacteria and germs on the mat. Regular cleaning helps prolong the lifespan of the mat. It also makes cleaning easier, as it will prevent the build-up of dirt. In this case, you don’t necessarily have to do deep cleaning anymore. Using a smelly yoga mat is uncomfortable, not only for you but also for the people around you. The smell could distract you especially during sessions where you need to meditate and concentrate. Cleaning the mat helps reduce odor and eliminate it completely.
Over-cleaning the yoga mat is also not healthy. Overdoing the cleaning could cause the yoga mat to break more easily, which will decrease its shelf life.
Just be sure your yoga mat is cleaned using a damp cloth after every yoga class, especially if you sweat a lot.
In conclusion, dirty yoga mats can be easily cleaned by following a few simple steps.If you are lucky enough to have a washable yoga mat then you can just throw it in the washing machine after use. By regularly cleaning a lululemon yoga mat, you can help keep it in good condition and prevent the spread of bacteria and other contaminants. Just one key thing to point out is that try to not allow direct sunlight on your yoga mat.