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So we told you long ago about all natural yoga mats, but did we mention how to keep them clean?

04.04.2006

Submitted by idealbite on Tue, 04/04/2006 - 5:00pm.
The Bite:

If you get a natural yoga mat (or even with your old PVC one) steer clear of cleaning it with synthetic cleaners and detergents. Stick to the natural theme with your sticky mat – use cleaners that will preserve its life while letting you breath non-toxic air in your downward dog.

The Benefits: 
  • Be good to your skin. Many detergents contain skin-irritating chemicals like alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEs), which are linked to hormone disruption and some cancers, and may be absorbed by your skin.
  • Focus on your breathing technique. Traditional all purpose cleaners, commonly recommended for cleaning mats, often contain chlorine or ammonia, which are harmful when inhaled and toxic when combined.
  • Stay friendly with fishies. APEs do not break down in water treatment processes, contaminating waterways and harming the reproduction and survival of aquatic life.
Personally Speaking: 

As our resident yoga guru, Heather is always promoting the cleansing benefits of yoga. Until she discovered Vermont Soap, though, we can’t say that her mat benefited from much cleansing. 

Wanna Try: 

Share your mat-cleaning faves (and read about Heather's not-always-so-clean attitude) at the Ideal Bite Blog.

Cocktail Fact

Yoga is comprised of 8 different "branches" of study and thought. The physical postures are actually only 1 of the 8.

Bang For The Bite

Natural yoga mat cleaners are good for you and nature, but they are a bit pricey when compared to conventional cleaners.

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Shelley   on March 26, 2009 at 06:24 PM 1
Love My Mat has recently introduced the first 100% Organic Yoga Mat Cleanser. It uses only USDA Certified Organic Ingredients to Disinfect & Deodorize without any chemicals. Organic Tea Tree Oil has triple antibacterial properties & boosts your immune system. Organic Lavender Oil calms your mind & freshens your mat. Organic Witch Hazel Hydrosol kills bacteria without harming your mat, mind or body. Organic Grapefruit Oil awakes your senses & sweetens your practice. The 250ml bottle is good for up to 100 germ-free practices & includes an organic cotton cloth to wipe away the sweat & bacteria without wasted paper towels. Learn more or buy a bottle at www.LoveMyMat.com

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