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.
Pssst. Have you bought a yoga mat yet?
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:
- Fill a large bowl or spray bottle with warm water + a few drops of gentle dish soap (like Seventh Generation or Dr. Bronner’s).
- Dampen a cloth — don’t soak the mat — and gently scrub both sides.
- Rinse the cloth and wipe again with just water.
- 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.”
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