Yoga mats

Different colours, sizes, materials, thickness, with or without an anti-slip layer… How do you decide which mat suits you best? Pay attention to the following points:

• Thickness: the best thickness depends on how intensively you use the yoga mat.
• Material: the material affects your grip and comfort.
• Dimensions: Choose a mat that you can lie on comfortably.
• Anti-slip layer: even when your hands are clammy, you still have a good grip thanks to the anti-slip layer.
• Suspension points: suspension points allow you to store your mat neatly and easily.

When buying a new yoga mat, it is good to ask yourself the following questions first:

• How intensively will you use the mat?
• What kind of exercises do you want to do on the mat?
• How tall are you?
• Do you want an anti-slip layer?
• How do you want to store the mat?

If you are going to use your yoga mat intensively and want it to be as comfortable as possible, you should choose a thicker version made of foam. Are you relatively tall? Then choose a yoga mat that is long enough so that you can fully fit on it. Do you like extra grip? Then a yoga mat with an anti-slip layer is a good idea!

The most commonly used mats are between 4 mm and 6 mm thick. In general, thinner mats offer more stability for standing positions and balance exercises. A 6-mm mat is better for sitting and lying positions. Really thick yoga mats (up to 16 mm) are mostly used for abdominal exercises and planking. 

If your mat has a nice design, put that side up, of course. If you have a reversible mat, it really doesn’t matter. But if not and both sides look the same, take a closer look at your mat to determine which side is smooth and which side is bumpy. The smooth surface is then the bottom.

The best way to clean your mat depends on the material:

• PVC: Make your own soapy water by adding 2 drops of detergent to 1 litre of water and soak your mat. Wipe the mat with warm water to remove any soapy residue. Lay the mat to dry in a dry room or outside in the sun.

• Natural rubber: Natural rubber mats absorb more dust and sweat due to their open cell structure. So you need to wash them a little more often. Make a lather of 50% water and 50% natural vinegar. Wipe the lather away with water and let dry (not in the sun!). 

• Cotton: these mats can be washed in the washing machine, which is handy! Never wash them hotter than 30°C. Then hang them up in a dry place. 

• Cork: It is best to spray these durable mats with water containing a few drops of ecological detergent. Then wipe the surface with a damp cloth. Simply dry the mat on the ground.