Can I Wash a Yoga Mat in a Washing Machine? (Every Type Checked)

Yoga mats are a personal space. You sweat on them, stretch on them, and sometimes even nap on them. So it’s only natural to want to keep them clean. But the question we often hear is: Can you actually put a yoga mat in the washing machine?

The short answer is: it depends on the type of yoga mat you have. In this guide, we’ll explore which mats can be machine washed, which ones can’t, how to clean any yoga mat properly, and why regular maintenance matters. We’ll also offer expert recommendations from our experience as a physio supplies store in Ireland.

Whether you’re practicing in a busy studio or stretching at home, a clean mat makes all the difference.

Quick Reference Table: Machine Wash or Hand Wash?

Understanding Yoga Mats: Materials and Types

Not all yoga mats are made equal. The material your mat is made from determines how it should be cleaned.

1. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) Mats

PVC mats are common, affordable and usually closed-cell, which means they don’t absorb moisture. Some thinner PVC mats may tolerate a gentle wash cycle, but they’re best cleaned by hand.

2. TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) Mats

These mats are eco-friendlier and more lightweight. They’re also closed-cell, which makes them less absorbent and easier to clean. Some TPE mats are labelled as machine washable, but only on a gentle, cold cycle.

3. Natural Rubber Mats

Rubber mats are durable and grippy, but they’re more porous. That makes them prone to soaking up water and soap during machine washing, which can degrade the material. These should always be hand washed.

4. Cotton or Jute Mats

Some cotton-blend mats can be machine washed on a cold, gentle cycle. However, they still require air drying and should never go in a dryer. They’re often preferred for more natural, grounded practice styles.

5. NBR Foam Mats

Thicker mats used in rehab or Pilates, often made from NBR foam, should never be machine washed. These sponge-like materials absorb too much water and lose their shape easily.

If you’re unsure what type of mat you have, check the label or brand website for care instructions. If it’s a mat like our Yoga/Pilates Mat 6mm or Yoga/Pilates Mat 1cm, we generally recommend avoiding machine washing unless clearly stated otherwise.

Find out if yoga mats are better than Pilates mats for you.

Can You Safely Wash a Yoga Mat in the Washing Machine?

Let’s get into the heart of the matter.

Yes, some yoga mats can be washed in the washing machine, but only under specific conditions.

Machine washing can be convenient, especially after an intense practice, but it’s not suitable for every mat. Here’s how to know if your mat qualifies:

Mats That Might Be Machine Washable:

• Thin TPE or PVC mats (under 6mm)
• Cotton or jute mats with care labels that allow cold machine washing
• Mats labelled explicitly as “machine washable”

Mats That Should NOT Be Washed in a Machine:

• Thick, open-cell, or NBR foam mats
• Mats without clear washing instructions
• Natural rubber mats
• Any mat that shows signs of wear or has fraying edges

Machine washing the wrong type of mat can cause permanent damage, including:

• Warping or stretching
• Crumbling or cracking
• Residue build-up from soap that weakens grip
• Internal waterlogging that takes days to dry

How to Machine Wash a Yoga Mat (If It’s Safe)

If your mat meets the criteria above and you still want to try machine washing, follow these steps carefully:

1. Use a gentle or delicate cycle only
2. Wash with cold water
3. Add a small amount of mild detergent (no bleach or fabric softener)
4. Put in a couple of towels to balance the load and reduce stress on the mat
5. Skip the spin cycle if possible
6. Do not tumble dry — always air dry flat or over a rail
7. Avoid washing too frequently — every few months at most

Remember, even machine-washable mats wear out faster with frequent machine cleaning. When in doubt, spot clean or hand wash instead.

Learn how to use a yoga mat for physical therapy properly.

When You Should Stick to Hand Washing

Machine washing may seem like a shortcut, but it’s not always worth the risk. If your mat is textured, thick, or doesn’t have cleaning instructions, hand washing is the safest option.

Here’s how to hand wash your yoga mat:

1. Fill your bathtub or basin with cool water
2. Add a few drops of mild dish soap or natural mat cleaner
3. Soak the mat for 10 to 15 minutes
4. Gently scrub with a soft sponge or cloth
5. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap
6. Hang it to dry over a clothes horse, banister, or flat surface

Avoid using strong disinfectants, vinegar in high concentration, or abrasive scrubbing brushes. These can damage the surface or break down grip-enhancing materials.

How Often Should You Clean Your Yoga Mat?

It depends on how often you use it and how intensely.

• After every session: Wipe down with a clean cloth and a mat spray
• Every 2 to 4 weeks: Deeper clean, especially if you sweat heavily
• Immediately if the mat smells, feels slippery, or looks dirty

Regular cleaning helps your mat last longer, prevents skin irritation, and keeps bacteria at bay, especially important if you practice in shared spaces.

How to Store Your Mat to Keep It Fresh

A clean mat still needs proper care between uses. Here are some tips:

• Use a carry strap like our Yoga and Pilates Mat Carry Strap for easy transport and ventilation
• Store it in a cool, dry place and avoid damp basements or hot car boots
• Let it air dry fully before rolling up after cleaning
• Don’t fold the mat or place heavy objects on top of it

If you’re using your mat as part of a broader fitness routine, pair it with other tools like resistance bands or a foam roller for a more complete recovery setup.

Learn more about yoga mats and back pain.

Our Take at Medpoint

We speak with a lot of customers who want a low-maintenance mat that also performs well. At Medpoint, we often recommend TPE mats for everyday users because they’re easier to clean and hold up better over time. For people doing rehab or physio work, we suggest thicker mats but always with hand cleaning.

As a trusted physio supplies store in Ireland, we’ve seen how quickly mats can degrade when they’re not cleaned properly. Following the care instructions can double the lifespan of your mat and improve your performance on it.

Whether you’re buying your first yoga mat or maintaining an old favourite, a little cleaning effort goes a long way.

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