Are Cork Yoga Mats Hygienic? (GROSS)

Are Cork Yoga Mats Hygienic? (GROSS)

By the Pureful Yoga Team 🍃

Published On: October 7th, 2022
are cork yoga mats hygienic

Without maintaining them, yoga mats can get nasty…

But are cork yoga mats MORE hygienic compared to traditional yoga mats?

In this article, we’ll discuss the anti-microbial and self-cleaning properties of cork yoga mats – along with everything else to know about these wonderful mats.

Are cork yoga mats hygienic and clean?

Cork yoga mats are naturally anti-microbial and self-cleaning, which means they’re resistant to mold, mildew, dust and dirt. You don’t need to clean them as frequently as other yoga mats – and cork mats are great for hot yoga too. Let’s explain this below.

Do cork yoga mats smell?

Cork mats are a popular choice for yoga enthusiasts, as they are naturally antibacterial and moisture-resistant. However, sometimes cork yoga mats can have a strong smell.

Use this guide if you have a cork yoga mat smell that you’re concerned about. And if you just bought a cork yoga mat, keep in mind:

  • This is usually due to the “out of box” smell that every yoga mat has, so it’s nothing to worry about.
  • The smell will typically go away on its own after a few days of air exposure.
  • In the meantime, you can try wiping down your mat with a diluted vinegar solution to help neutralize the odor.

Overall, there’s not much to worry (unless you’re dealing with a prolonged build-up of bacteria). You only need to wash and cleanse cork yoga mats every once in a while – more on this below.

Which yoga mats can grow mold and mildew? (GROSS)

After a sweaty session, traditional yoga mats can become the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. If left untreated, this can get nasty.

  • These fungi thrive in humid environments, and they can quickly start to grow on your mat if it isn’t properly cleaned and dried.
  • Many commercial yoga mats are made of PVC, which can grow mold and mildew (if not cleansed often).
  • Natural rubber and jute mats are also very susceptible to nasty build-up.

If you notice any black or green patches on your mat, it’s important to clean it immediately to prevent the growth from spreading. With a little care and attention, you can keep your yoga mat clean and free of harmful fungi.

How to disinfect a cork yoga mat

We a have a thorough and detailed guide right here for cleaning your cork yoga mat – in order to prevent and remove the smell. However, here are a few quick tips:

  • A simple mixture of water and vinegar will do the trick. Just be sure to rinse it off.
  • Stay away from intense chemicals or cleaning agents, as they can wear down the mat.
  • Don’t forget to give it a good wipe down every once in a while.

By keeping these points in mind, your cork yoga mat will look and feel great for years to come.

More to know about cork yoga mats