DIY: How to Make Your Own Yoga Mat Spray

Yoga mats are loyal companions for yogis, but these beloved exercise buddies can also be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. While commercial yoga mat cleaners vary in price, it’s also easy to make your own DIY yoga mat spray.

However, it’s important to remember that not all sprays are created equal, especially when it comes to their ability to disinfect and kill harmful viruses like COVID-19.

Spray your yoga mat regularly before and after rolling it up. It’s also good to deep clean it regularly to make sure it stays clean and safe for everyday use.

Yoga mat sprays made from all-natural ingredients are just as effective as chemical cleaners. Still, proper use of them and other care habits are a must to keep mats and other yoga props clean and germ-free.

The two formulas are easy to mix at home and, when used properly, are safe to use at home and on the skin.

Make sure your essential oils come from reputable companies that only sell organic, food-grade, or pharmaceutical-grade essential oils.

Concerns about bacteria and coronavirus

Yoga mats, especially those shared by yoga studios and gyms, may contain bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Pantoea agglomerans, a fecal marker, researchers have shown.

In addition to bacteria, fungi can also thrive on damp, neglected yoga mats.

In 2020, the coronavirus COVID-19 has put much of the world into lockdown mode. The virus spreads through direct contact with droplets produced when you sneeze, cough or even talk.

Scientists don’t yet know how long COVID-19 can survive on surfaces, but they think it’s similar to its cousin Sars-CoV-2. The coronavirus can survive in airborne droplets for up to 3 hours, on cardboard for up to 24 hours and on smooth surfaces for up to 7 days.

It is important to bring your own mat to yoga classes now that gyms and yoga studios have reopened to prevent further spread of the virus. For your health and the safety of those around you, you must clean your mat carefully.

Benefits of Natural Yoga Mat Spray

Homemade yoga mat sprays made with high-quality essential oils known for their antibacterial and antifungal properties are just as effective as commercial mat sprays and washcloths, which can contain harsh chemicals.

In addition to essential oils, you can also use witch hazel water, which is known to have antiseptic properties that kill microbes.

If you want your all natural yoga mat spray to contain alcohol, you can use vodka that has at least 60-95% alcohol or 180 proof. Any lower value does not meet CDC’s minimum recommendations.

Top Essential Oils for Sanitizing Your Yoga Mat

The following essential oils are most commonly used in natural DIY yoga mat sprays. The best part of making your own blends is knowing which oils are best for you.

Your body may respond differently to different oils. Some may even give you side effects, and some scents may not appeal to you. So being able to mix your own yoga mat spray gives you more control over the process.

Melaleuca Tea Tree Essential Oil

Melaleuca is native to Queensland and New South Wales, Australia. It can be used topically due to its antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. It also has an inhibitory effect on influenza.

oregano essential oil

Oregano oil has antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties. In addition, when diluted and taken internally, it has anti-parasitic, anti-inflammatory properties, helps with digestive problems and inhibits tumor growth.

lavender essential oil

The scent of lavender can help you fall asleep faster and is used in many shampoos and cosmetics. But this essential oil also has antiseptic, antibacterial, and anthelmintic properties.

lemon essential oil

Lemons are known to be a great cleanser. The essential oil of this citrus fruit can be used on the body, on surfaces, dishes, clothing, and other items that may be contaminated. Its pleasant fragrance and antiseptic properties make it an excellent ingredient for cleaning and cosmetics.

Peppermint and Eucalyptus Essential Oils

Both peppermint and eucalyptus have refreshing scents to leave you feeling refreshed and relieve tension headaches. However, they are also known for their antifungal and antibacterial properties, inhibiting microbial activity even when tested with antibiotic-resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus.

Cinnamon and Clove Essential Oils

Cinnamon and cloves may be ingredients you keep in your kitchen pantry, but they can also be used as herbs. They have natural antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic and antiviral properties.

Thyme and Rosemary Essential Oils

Thyme and rosemary are other ingredients you’re likely to find in pasta sauces. Their essential oils have been used since ancient times as natural antibacterial agents. They also help repel pests and boost the body’s immunity.

Geranium and Cedarwood Essential Oils

Geraniums and cedars are also plants that have been used since ancient times to repel pests and diseases. These essential oils inhibit the growth of bacteria and microorganisms and can be used to decontaminate buildings.

Be careful when using essential oils

Essential oils are highly concentrated and obtained from fresh, preferably organically grown plants using a steam distillation process. Even essential oils work like little magic potions for healing