We do yoga to take care of our bodies, but there’s something else that we mustn’t forget to provide with a little TLC from time to time: our yoga mats. You can totally go out and buy a cleaner for your mat… OR you can make one yourself.
The fun part about making this spray is that you get to play around with different ratios, and mix and match the types of oils you want to include in order to make your ideal scent. If you haven’t seen our post from earlier this week, there are tons of different benefits of different scents, so grab your favorite essential oils and get to mixing!
Here’s what you need:
Spray Bottle: You can use any spray bottle you like. Think about how often you’re going to use this cleaner. If you’ll be using it daily, you may want to use a larger spray bottle so that you don’t have to re-make the solution so often. It’s also important to note the size of the nozzle. I used a bottle with a pretty small nozzle, but if you plan on doing some heavy duty yoga mat cleaning, you may want a larger one.
Essential Oils: Any essential oils will do, but it’s important to include those with antibacterial properties, such as tea tree, lemongrass, lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus. For this particular spray, I chose lavender, eucalyptus, and lemongrass.
Witch Hazel: This is the main cleaning agent in this mixture. You can use any kind of witch hazel, or even white vinegar if you prefer.
Water: Water should be about 3/4 the entire mixture. It dilutes the mixture, keeping it from being too overpowering. You can use any type – bottled, tap… it’s up to you!
Step 1: Fill your bottle about 3/4 full with water.
Step 2: Pour in witch hazel almost to the top of the bottle, leaving a little room for oil. For a more powerful cleaner, use slightly less water and slightly more witch hazel.
Step 3: Experiment with your oils – this is the fun part! Try starting with one drop of each oil, and then adding more in different amounts until you reach your ideal scent. Keep in mind that essential oils have a very strong aroma, so be careful not to use too much of them. If your solution does end up being too powerful, pour some out, and add more water. Once you’ve perfected your scent, mix the solution thoroughly, cap your bottle, and you’re ready to clean!
Now for the cleaning…
Spray solution generously, covering one side of your mat. Wipe down your mat with a damp cloth. Repeat on the other side and then hang to dry! It should take 5-10 minutes to dry completely.
More yoga posts on the BLDG 25 blog!
Check out our new FP Movement yoga line!
Comments
I love this. Thank you.
Just one comment on this! The oils may smell pretty but they will damage any mat that is anti-slip because they are made of open-cell technology…the oils will block the pores of the mat, and prevent it from wicking moisture to make it anti-slip…so spray wisely to prevent slips! :)
so ellie, what would you reccomend to clean your mat?
Slightly confused, you write: “Water should be about ¼ the entire mixture.” But then you write: “Step 1: Fill your bottle about 3/4 full with water.” I’m guessing there’s a typo, but which one, please?
Kind regards, Kitty
Kitty – It’s 3/4! Thanks so much for pointing that out! :)
Such a great idea, love it.
Zoe
http://gypsiesister.blogspot.co.uk
I really want to try this, where did you get the essential oils from?
Great tip, can’t wait to try it out.
Great things you’ve always shared with us. Thanks. Just continue composing this kind of post. The time which was wasted in traveling for tuition now it can be utilized for studies. Thanks for this knowledgeable blog.
Make sure to shake well before each use; the essential oils will separate from the water! Niaouli, lemon and myrrh are also good choices
I can’t wait to make the yoga mat cleaner!