How to Clean a Lululemon Yoga Mat (Without Ruining It)

Simple Tips from a Yoga Teacher Who’s Helped Clean Plenty of Them

I’ll be honest — I’ve never owned a Lululemon yoga mat.
But I’ve taught hundreds of students who have, and I’ve helped many of them clean, care for, and rescue their mats from post-sweat stickiness or lingering odor after class.

Lululemon mats are known for their grip and durability, but they also trap sweat, oils, and dirt faster than most yogis expect — especially the “The Mat” and “The Reversible Mat” models with their grippy top layer.

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So if you’re wondering how to safely clean your Lulu mat (without damaging the surface or dulling the grip), here’s exactly what I recommend.

🧼 The Best Way to Clean a Lululemon Yoga Mat (Quick Routine)

You don’t need fancy sprays or harsh chemicals — just a simple at-home routine to keep it fresh after class.

After Every Practice: Quick Wipe-Down

Use a clean cloth dampened with one of these natural solutions:

Option 1: Vinegar + Water Spray

• 1 part distilled white vinegar
• 3 parts water
• Optional: 1–2 drops of tea tree or lavender essential oil
• Lightly mist your mat and wipe with a soft cloth

Option 2: Lululemon’s Recommended Solution

• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup water
• A squeeze of lemon juice
• Shake in a spray bottle and mist lightly

✨ Avoid alcohol-based wipes or heavy essential oil blends.
They can dry out the surface and degrade grip over time.

🧽 Deep Cleaning: Once a Week (or When It Gets Funky)

If your mat feels sticky, slippery, or smells… off, it’s time for a more thorough refresh.

Here’s how:

1. Fill a large bowl or spray bottle with warm water + a few drops of gentle dish soap (like Seventh Generation or Dr. Bronner’s).
2. Dampen a cloth — don’t soak the mat — and gently scrub both sides.
3. Rinse the cloth and wipe again with just water.
4. Air dry the mat completely (flat or over a railing) — no direct sunlight or dryer heat.

🛑 Never soak or submerge your Lululemon mat. The rubber core can absorb water, which leads to warping or peeling.

⚠️ Mistakes to Avoid

I’ve seen students try all kinds of creative cleaning strategies — not all of them end well. Here are a few common mistakes I’ve helped people recover from:

• Using Clorox wipes or harsh cleaners: They break down the surface over time
• Soaking the mat in the tub: Waterlogged mats don’t dry well and can smell worse afterward
• Rolling it up wet: This traps moisture and creates mildew or bubbling
• Storing in hot cars or direct sun: Lululemon mats warp in heat (fast)

Stick to gentle, regular cleaning, and your mat will hold up much longer — with better grip and fewer odors.

🧘‍♀️ How to Keep Your Mat Clean Between Classes

• Use a clean towel or yoga mat towel if you sweat heavily
• Let it air out after practice before rolling it up
• Store it flat or hung over a railing if possible
• Wash your hands and feet before class to reduce oil and dirt transfer

Final Thoughts from a Teacher (Who’s Seen a Lot of Mats)

Even though I’ve never personally owned a Lululemon mat, I’ve cleaned them, taught on them, and helped students troubleshoot grip loss, odors, and sticky patches more times than I can count.

The key? Consistency over perfection.
A quick wipe after practice + a gentle deep clean every week or two is usually all it takes to keep your mat in great shape.

Ready to build a cleaning routine that lasts as long as your mat does?
Grab your spray, take a breath, and turn it into a little ritual. You and your mat are in this together.

Set an intention!

In yoga, you set an intention at the beginning of your practice. As a Christian, I like to choose bible verses that can lead my practice- and day- in a positive direction. Here are some of my favorites:

• Psalm 16:9 – “Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope.“
• 2 Timothy 1:7 – “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”