How to Clean Your Cork Yoga Mat | Studio Layla Yoga

Cork yoga mats are naturally antimicrobial, grippy, and beautiful. But like anything you practice on regularly, they benefit from simple, consistent care. Whether you’re using your mat at home or in the studio, here’s how to keep it clean, fresh, and long-lasting.

 

How Often Should You Clean Your Yoga Mat?

A quick wipe-down after each use helps prevent buildup of sweat, oils, and dust—especially in humid climates or after a dynamic practice. For personal use, a deeper clean every 1–2 weeks is usually enough.

Studio mats used more frequently may need a full wash more often, depending on how much wear they get.

 

Can You Use Studio Cleaners on Cork Mats?

It depends. Some sprays are safe and made from natural ingredients. Others may contain alcohol, synthetic fragrance, or harsh surfactants that can dry out or degrade the cork over time.

Check the label, or when in doubt, opt for a simple homemade solution: water mixed with some mild soap works beautifully. You could also try some mild organic cleaning agent, vinegar, or witch hazel for a deeper clean. 

 

Can I roll my mat up while wet or damp? 

Technically, you can do whatever you want. The real question is… should you? And the answer is… no, at least not for long!

As much as possible try to let the mat air dry before rolling. If you need to roll up your mat after your yoga class and it’s still damp, just be sure to unroll it when you get home to let it dry.  

This really applies to any yoga mat whether it’s cork, or not. Leaving your mat rolled up when damp can cause it to smell or could even discolour your mat. 

Tip: Roll your mat with the cork side facing out - your mat will always sit flat on the floor and it will last longer! 

How to Deep Clean or Remove Stains

Cork can handle a deeper clean when needed. At Studio Layla, we often wash our mats directly in the shower 😂

Here’s how to clean your mat at home:

1. Rinse or soak: Use a shower head or cloth to wet the mat thoroughly.
2. Scrub gently: Use a soft cloth or sponge with warm water and a few drops of mild soap (like castile or dish soap). Focus on any stained or heavily used areas.
3. Optional spray: For extra freshness, use a mix of water, white vinegar or witch hazel, and a few drops of essential oil (lavender, tea tree, or eucalyptus work well).
4. Rinse again: Make sure to remove all soap residue.
5. Dry flat or hang to dry: Leave the mat to air dry completely before rolling. Avoid direct sunlight or heat.

What You Should Avoid

• No washing machines – they can damage the cork and backing materials.
• No harsh cleaners, bleach, or abrasive brushes – cork is tough but best treated gently.
• No wax-, solvent-, or oil-based cleaners – they can leave a film and reduce grip. Note: a small amount of essential oil is fine, but using too much oil during cleaning could damage the grip or discolor your mat. 
• Avoid direct prolonged sun exposure – cork may fade or dry out with too much UV.

Final Thoughts

Your Studio Layla cork yoga mat is designed to evolve with you. With time, its surface may darken slightly and develop a soft, lived-in look—that’s a natural patina, and part of its charm.

With simple, regular care, your mat will stay clean, grippy, and beautiful for years of practice to come.

 

 

Studio Layla yoga mats are available to purchase here or in our store in Chiang Mai. Customers within Thailand can also contact us directly to order and receive free shipping ❤️