For a proper output of Yoga, we require focus, stability and a strong and smooth connection with the floor or ground. Most yogis whether they are new or experienced use the yoga mats for practice. However, If I talk about the problem that we normally face in yoga mats is its slipperiness. Today we will discuss How to Fix a Slippery Yoga Mat along with How do I stop my yoga mat from being slippery.

We can’t maintain focus and stability on a slippery mat and sometimes it leads to injuries. Almost all of us have faced this especially when you have a newer mat or made with a certain material. I have already written an article regarding yoga mat material you should read it before buying a new one.

In this guide, we will discuss all the possible solutions for how to fix a slippery yoga mat. We will also try to discuss the reasons behind it or why is my yoga mat slippery.

Why Is My Yoga Mat Slippery?

Let’s take a look at the reason behind Why Is My Yoga Mat Slippery before the solution. Several factors can cause the slipperiness of a yoga mat:

Brand New Mats:

A brand new yoga mat has slipperiness due to the factory coating on its surface. Normally a factory uses this coating to save the mat during shipment as well as storage, this coating makes the mat slippery until we remove it.

Material:

Certain types of materials like PVC or rubber are naturally slick. A few people also prefer the texture over the mat to increase durability these types of mats normally take a certain time and usage to become grippy.

Sweat and Moisture:

Sweat and moisture are also the most common reasons behind the slipperiness of yoga mats and we normally face this situation during hot yoga practice or other heavy sessions. So, we face traction because some of the yoga mats are not designed to tackle the large amounts of moisture or sweat.

Lack of Texture:

The yoga mats without texture or a smooth surface are also less grippy. Texture creates a bit amount of friction between your hands and feet that reduces the slipperiness.

Oils and Lotions:

The use of different oils and lotions during yoga sessions can also cause of yoga mat slipperiness with time.

Now let’s move to the next step How to Fix a Slippery Yoga Mat

How to Fix a Slippery Yoga Mat

Various effective methods are being used to fix a slippery mat:

1. Break in Your Mat

Usually, a brand-new yoga mat requires a certain time before reaching the optimal grip. So, let’s take a look at how we can reach the yoga mats optimal time manually:

Use it Frequently:

The first and foremost thing is to use the yoga mat regularly the more you use it, the faster it fixes. After a certain time, the outer layer of the yoga mats wears off, and a grippy surface comes out underneath.

Practice at Home:

It is a better option to use a new mat at home first to reduce its slipperiness. You can simply walk on the mat without shoes.

Scrub the Mat:

You can also scrub the mat to speed up the breaking-in process. Just make a solution of water & a high-quality detergent and scrub your mat with it. After that use a soft cloth or yoga mat towel to dry it. In this way, you can easily remove the factory slick from its surface and your mat will start tipping.

2. Wash Your Mat

Regular use of a yoga mat makes it a bit dirty due to the dust oils and sweat that makes the mat slippery. You can regularly clean your mat to restore its grip.
You can read here in detail about how to clean a yoga mat. I already discussed a few methods to wash the yoga mats.

Use a Mat Cleaner:

If you are using a specific brand’s mat, you can also buy its cleaner from the company. Invest a small amount of money to clean your mat.

3. Use a Yoga Towel

It is recommended to use a yoga towel during practice if you sweat a lot or going to practice something like hot yoga. Yoga towels can absorb moisture easily. In this way, you can save your mat become slippery due to moisture.

Place the Towel on Your Mat:

Another option is to place a towel on the yoga mat which increases the friction and grip between your hands and feet.

4. Apply a Salt Scrub

If you mat is built with PVC or rubber material then apply a salt scrub on it to restore its gripping. It is a well-known method for breaking in, especially for a new yoga mat.

5. Try Grip Enhancing Products

You can also use grip-enhancing products available in the market:

Grip Sprays:

Different sprays such as “Grip Enhancer” can be used for quick results. These sprays are built to make your mat tackier.

Chalk or Powder:

Chalk or powder can also be used to reduce slipperiness as this material is used in gymnasts. But keep in mind, this thing can make your mat dirty.

6. Switch to a Non-Slip Yoga Mat

The last option is to move towards such yoga mat material which is high in quality and non-slip.

Best Non-Slip Materials for Yoga Mats

This is most important to choose the right material before buying a brand-new yoga mat. Let’s try to discuss briefly about the materials:

1. Natural Rubber

These material mats are well known due to their excellent grip. Rubber’s texture offers an extra layer of friction, which increases the gripping during practice. Apart from that natural rubber mats are eco-friendly as well as biodegradable.

2. Polyurethane

These mats are also a good option due to their non-slipping feature. These mats have incredible ability to absorb moisture so these mats are the perfect option for hot yoga or for those who sweat a lot. Polyurethane mats have a double-layer construction, the upper layer designated concerning grip and the other one for cushioning.

3. Cork

Cork yoga mats are gaining popularity among people due to their features such as sustainability durability and grip. These mats are easy to clean but only the worst thing is to store and transportation for this mat as the cork mats are a bit stiffer.

You can read here in detail about Cork vs Rubber Yoga Mats

4. TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer)

Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) is well-known among people due to its durability and grip. It’s a blend of rubber material and plastic polymers.

You can read here in detail about TPE vs EVA vs NBR yoga mats

5. Jute

Jute material is also a mixture of natural jute fibers. These mats are eco-friendly and sustainable and provide the best gipping due to their texture.

Conclusion

You can’t put your focus during yoga with a slippery yoga and this thing is irritating, so, if you are facing this issue. You can fix it by using the above methods. I have shared all the possible solutions for how to fix a slippery yoga mat.

Always stay happy, healthy and connected to enjoy your yoga journey!

Yoga is the oldest way to improve physical health and inner peace and yoga mats are essential for getting proper results, whether you are an experienced person or a new practitioner.

Taking care of a yoga mat for long-lasting is important so today I will discuss with you How to Roll Up a Yoga Mat correctly for long-lasting, cleanliness and storage. You can increase your yoga mat’s longevity and save its corners from turning or preserve its shape with proper rolling.

Importance of Roll Up a Yoga Mat Correctly

It might be possible that you wonder why I pay attention to such a small thing as how to roll up a yoga mat. But it has a huge impact on your mat’s life, durability, cleanliness and even it has impact on your health.

Let’s dig down a little deeper

Durability:

Not rolling or Incorrect rolling is the major cause of cracking mats and this process becomes quicker in rubber mats.

Hygiene:

If you are not rolling your mat it will fill with germs with time and if you are rolling it daily you are saving it from dirt and debris.

Portability:

A properly rolled mat can be easier to carry and you can easily store it.

Space:

By rolling your mat correctly, you can keep your space organized.

Let’s take a look at some of the major ways through which we can roll up mats of different materials:

How to Roll Up a Yoga Mat: The Basics

Firstly, we will discuss a basic method for rolling up a standard material mat after that we will discuss some specific types of yoga mats rolling cork, etc.

The best technique for rolling mats is made from materials like PVC, rubber, or foam.

Steps for Rolling Up a Yoga Mat:

Lay Your Mat Flat:

Put the mat flat on the ground and make sure, the side which is used for practice should be upward. Through this, we will ensure the front side of the mat remains protected and clean.

Align the Edges:

Edges should also align to make their corners safe from cracking by unnecessary bending.

Start Rolling from One End:

Now start the rolling from one end towards another and make sure both the roll edges remain in the same alignment.

Keep It Tight:

Try to put some pressure to keep the tight rolling that will help us maintain the mat structure and make it easier to transport.

Fasten the Roll:

After rolling the mat, It is recommended to use a strap or elastic band to secure it if you have one.

This is the simplest way to roll a yoga mat and it will work for almost all standard yoga mats, but if I talk about some specific material of mats like cork, it requires a little variation in this method.

Let’s take a look:

How to Roll Up a Cork Yoga Mat

All the experienced yogis already know about Cork material due to its excellent grip, eco-friendliness, and durability. And these are the basic reasons for its popularity among the people. As the cork mats a  stiffer compared to a regular mat, so we need to pay some extra attention to its rolling.

Steps for Rolling a Cork Yoga Mat:

Let the Mat Air Out:

First of all, if you had a specific sweaty session on cork yoga mats then put this mat in the air to dry and disinfect. Sunlight or dry air prevents the mat from becoming sticky.

Roll from the Smooth Side:

Start rolling from the smooth side to prevent the cork from cracking or damaging as well as its cleanliness.

Start Slowly:

As we all know the cork yoga mats are a bit stiffer than a regular mat so we need to put more pressure on it to keep the rolling tight.

Elastic Band or Strap:

Cork mats are heavier so always use a proper elastic band or a strap to keep the mat rolled. This thing also helps us to move the mat from one place to another and its storage.

Store Flat if Possible:

If you don’t have space issues then it is recommended to store your cork mat flat.

These are the few steps by which we can increase our cork mat life and keep it in a good condition.

How to Roll Up a Lululemon Yoga Mat

Lululemon is a well-known brand for high-quality yoga mats and premium grip. Mostly Lululemon’s mats have a double-sided surface, one for traction and a bit softer other side.

Steps for Rolling a Lululemon Yoga Mat:

Decide Which Side to Roll:

Decide first which of the Lululemon yoga mat sides (grippy or softer) you mostly use and start rolling from the other side so we can save it from dust or dirt

Align the Mat:

Make sure, the edges are well aligned to avoid creases while rolling.

Apply Pressure:

Start the mat rolling from one side to another and put a high amount of pressure to tighten the rolling because typically Lululemon mats are a bit thicker compared to standard mats.

Secure with a Strap or Bag:

Secure your rolled mat with a strap or an elastic band and if you don’t have you can use the yoga mat bags for this purpose. By this, we can easily carry our yoga mat to transport as well as its storage.

How to Keep a Yoga Mat Rolled Up

The simplest and the easiest thing to keep your mat rolled up is the use of a yoga mat strap or elastic band. These things will keep your mat rolled as well as also save the edges from cracking. Various straps and elastic bands are available in the market at the cheapest prices.

Storing Your Yoga Mat Correctly

After rolling your mat the second most necessary thing is to store it. Always, keep these points in your mind while storing them to increase their longevity.

Avoid Direct Sunlight:

The standard materials which are still using to make a yoga mat rubber, PVC, or cork which can be degraded in direct sunlight. So, always make sure you have placed it in a cool and dry place.

Use a Mat Bag:

The better option is to use the yoga mat bags if you practice yoga in studios or outside.

Conclusion

How to roll a yoga mat seems unnecessary or a small detail but it will increase your yoga mat longevity and durability. Apart from that this way you can easily store it, secure it, clean it as well can save your space. If you have done it, your mat is ready for the next session.

TPE vs EVA Yoga Mat & NBR vs PVC Yoga Mat: Yoga is a perfect way of exercise to improve not only your mental and physical health but it is best for inner peace also, but keep in mind ideal equipment is necessary to achieve this. The most important piece of equipment is the right yoga mat for practitioners. Hundreds of yoga mats are available in the market and all of them are not equally beneficial even not equally built. Numerous materials are used to build a yoga mat.

So, today we will try to compare a few of the materials so that a person can easily finalize which yoga mat can prove good for him.

Which is better, TPE or EVA?

When we come up with finalizing the yoga mat material, a new question arises in our minds regarding the better material, TPE or EVA.

Let’s go a bit deeper to finalize

TPE Yoga Mat Material

TPE stands for Thermoplastic Elastomers a type of plastic and rubber polymers with specific properties like thermic and elastic and normally used to build sports equipment. This material is being used to build yoga mats and the major reason is that TPE can be easily converted or molded to different shapes.

Normally the yoga mats made with TPE are light in weight, durable, anti-skid and highly resistant to moisturizing. So these mats are easy to clean. That’s why they are a bit costly compared to other mats.

If I talk about the downside of TPE yoga mats, they can be slippery when wet along with they have a bit lighter smell of rubber.

EVA Yoga Mat Material

EVA stands for Ethylene Vinyl Acetate a synthetic material used to make yoga mats due to its features for example, these mats are light in weight and have great resistance to cracking. Apart from that these material mats are durable and well known for their comfort level and easy to clean due to their moisture-resistant feature.

If I talk about the downside of EVA yoga mats they have some specific odor as the material contains the chemicals. These mats normally compress with time and regular usage and even they can also lose their cushioning after a specific time. Try to avoid these mats from direct sunlight otherwise, they can be cracked.

TPE vs EVA Yoga Mats

Let’s compare the yoga mat material performance, both material mats are good in grip and anti-skid but TPE mat is much more slip-resistant compared to EVA. In the same way, If I talk about sustainability then I think TPE mat is a much better option as it is easily recyclable.

TPE vs NBR vs PVC Yoga Mat

You can read in detail above about TPE mat material.

NBR Yoga Mat Material

NBR stands for Nitrile Butadiene Rubber which is a synthetic rubber material mostly used in the automotive industry. As the material offers good cushioning and insulation for our joints that’s why yoga mats are built of this material. NBR mats are cost-effective and durable.

If I talk about the downside of NBR yoga mats, this material is built by humans so that’s why it is not very environmentally friendly compared to more organic material. As it’s built with rubber, the mats are a bit heavier in weight with poor elasticity so that’s why not easy to carry and transport.

PVC Yoga Mat Material

PVC stands for Polyvinyl Chloride a plastic material well known due to its durability and grip. PVC mats are much more affordable or cost-effective and it’s widely available. These mats are light in weight so can easily be carried and transported.

PVC yoga mats are cheaper as it is built with low-quality material. These mats have specific unpleasant odors. They can be slippery when wet or sweaty and do not offer much cushioning. These mats are not very popular among the users due to their drawbacks.

Which is the best yoga mat

It is a bit difficult to recommend a single material because all materials have their own features so, it depends on the practitioner which kind of exercise he has a plan to do as well as what kind of environment he lives. If the practitioner has a plan to move or travel with a yoga mat daily then definitely, the choice will be different compared to that one who doesn’t have a plan to travel with a yoga mat.

We have shared all the features for materials, you can choose any one of them that fulfills your requirements. You can read about a few more yoga mat materials here.

Is TPE Safe for Skin?

As the TPE is made with non-toxic materials that’s why it’s less likely to cause different allergies. So, it’s usually considered safe for the skin.

Is Eva Safe for Skin?

EVA yoga mat material is also considered safe for the skin but the people who are already suffering from allergies, EVA can be caused by increasing it as this material is also built with chemicals.

Hopefully, you have gotten the answer to the question TPE vs EVA Yoga Mat which is better. Share your thoughts in our comments section.