If you’re as dedicated to your practice as we are, then you know that a reliable yoga towel is a must-have in your arsenal.
Whether you’re sweating it out in a hot yoga session or holding challenging poses, your yoga towel becomes your trusty companion. This post will cover 4 ways how to wash a yoga towel.
But just like your dedication to your practice, your yoga towel deserves some TLC too.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through effective methods about how to wash a yoga towel, ensuring its longevity and maintaining hygiene.
Method 1: Machine Washing
Machine washing your yoga towel is a convenient and efficient way to keep it clean and fresh.
Here’s how to do it:
Gather Your Towels:
Before loading your yoga towel into the washing machine, make sure you have a few more towels to balance the load. This prevents unnecessary strain on the machine and ensures proper agitation.
Pre-Treat Stains:
If you’ve noticed any stubborn stains on your yoga towel, it’s a good idea to pre-treat them before washing. Apply a small amount of gentle stain remover or a mixture of water and mild detergent directly to the stain. Allow it to sit for a few minutes.
Select the Right Settings:
Set your washing machine to a delicate or gentle cycle with cold water. Hot water can damage the elasticity of the fabric and cause colours to fade over time.
Avoid using harsh detergents or fabric softeners, as they can leave residue on the towel.
Load and Wash:
Place your yoga towels in the machine, being careful not to overcrowd it. This allows the towels to move freely and get cleaned properly. Add a small amount of mild detergent to the detergent compartment.
Extra Rinse Cycle:
After the wash cycle is complete, consider running an extra rinse cycle to ensure all detergent is thoroughly rinsed out. Excess detergent can make your towel less absorbent.
Drying:
Air drying is the best option for maintaining the quality of your yoga towel. Lay the towel flat on a drying rack or hang it up in a well-ventilated area. Direct sunlight may cause colors to fade, so choose a shaded spot if possible.
Method 2: Hand Washing
Hand washing your yoga towel is a gentle alternative, particularly for those concerned about the wear and tear of machine washing.
Here’s how to do it:
Prepare a Wash Basin:
Fill a basin or sink with cold water. Add a small amount of mild detergent and mix it until it’s well-dissolved.
Submerge and Soak:
Immerse your yoga towel in the soapy water and gently agitate it. Allow the towel to soak for about 15 minutes. Gently rub any stained areas with your fingers.
Rinse Thoroughly:
Drain the soapy water and rinse the towel under cold running water until all traces of detergent are gone. Gently squeeze the towel to remove excess water; avoid wringing it out.
Repeat if Necessary:
If your towel is particularly dirty, you might need to repeat the soaking and rinsing process to ensure it’s thoroughly clean.
Drying:
Lay the towel flat on a clean, dry towel. Roll them together to absorb excess water.
Afterward, lay the yoga towel flat to air dry in a shaded area. Avoid using a dryer as the heat can damage the fabric.
Method 3: Vinegar Soak
Vinegar isn’t just for salads; it can be a game-changer when it comes to cleaning your yoga towel.
Here’s how to do a vinegar soak:
Fill a Tub or Basin:
Prepare a tub or basin with enough water to completely submerge your yoga towel.
Add Vinegar:
Pour in about a cup of white vinegar for every gallon of water. Vinegar not only helps break down sweat and odours but also helps restore the towel’s absorbency.
Soak Your Towel:
Place your towel in the vinegar water mixture and let it soak for about 30 minutes to an hour. This soak will help eliminate any lingering odours and bacteria.
Rinse and Dry:
After soaking, rinse the towel thoroughly under cold water to remove the vinegar smell. Gently squeeze out excess water, and then proceed to air dry the towel as usual.
Method 4: Essential Oil Refresh
Why not add a touch of aromatherapy to your yoga towel care routine? Essential oils can invigorate your senses and refresh your towel.
Here’s how:
Create a Refreshing Mix:
Fill a small spray bottle with water and add a few drops of your favourite antibacterial essential oil, such as tea tree or lavender. These oils not only smell amazing but also have natural antibacterial properties.
Spritz Away:
Hang your yoga towel in a well-ventilated area, and lightly spritz it with the essential oil mixture. Make sure to spray evenly to cover the entire towel.
Let It Breathe:
Allow the towel to air dry completely before using it again. The subtle fragrance will make your practice even more delightful.
Occasional Wash:
While this method is excellent for refreshing your towel between washes, remember to give it a proper wash using one of the methods mentioned earlier to maintain its hygiene.
Best Ways to Wash Different Yoga Mat Types:
1. PVC Mats:
● Regular Wiping:
After each practice, wipe down the mat with a damp cloth or a yoga mat cleaning spray to remove sweat and grime.
● Deep Cleaning:
Every few weeks, give your PVC mat a thorough wash. Use a mixture of mild detergent and water. Scrub gently with a soft cloth, then rinse and wipe dry.
2. TPE Mats:
● Daily Care:
Wipe down your TPE mat after practice with a clean, damp cloth.
● Weekly Cleaning:
Mix a solution of water and a few drops of mild soap. Gently scrub the mat with the solution, then rinse and air-dry.
3. Natural Rubber Mats:
● Quick Clean:
After practice, use a yoga mat cleaning spray to wipe off sweat and dirt.
● Monthly Deep Clean:
Create a solution of water and a small amount of mild soap. Gently scrub the mat, then rinse thoroughly. Avoid excessive moisture to prevent breakdown of the rubber.
4. Cork Mats:
● Routine Care:
Wipe down with a damp cloth after each session to prevent oils from skin transferring to the mat.
● Deep Cleaning:
Once a month, clean with a mixture of water and a mild soap. Gently scrub the surface, then wipe and air-dry.
5. Jute Mats:
● Daily Care:
Use a yoga mat cleaning spray or a damp cloth to wipe down the mat after practice.
● Occasional Cleaning:
Mix mild soap and water, and gently scrub the mat’s surface.Rinse and air-dry.
Taking Care of Your Yoga Towel: More Tips for Longevity
Hello again, yogis and fitness enthusiasts! We’re back with some extra tips to help you take care of your beloved yoga towel.
Just like your dedication to your practice, a little extra care can go a long way in ensuring your towel stays in tip-top shape.
1. Regular Maintenance
Shake It Off:
After each practice, give your towel a good shake to remove any loose dirt or debris. This small step can help prevent dirt from embedding itself in the fabric.
Hang to Dry:
If you’re not ready to wash your towel just yet, hang it up to dry. This prevents bacteria and odors from forming and keeps your towel fresh between washes.
2. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Opt for Gentle Cleaners:
Stick to mild detergents when washing your yoga towel. Harsh chemicals can break down the fabric fibers over time, reducing the towel’s lifespan.
Say No to Fabric Softeners:
Fabric softeners might make your towels feel softer, but they can also reduce their absorbency. Skip the fabric softener to keep your towel working effectively.
3. Handle Stains with Care
Act Fast:
If you notice a stain on your towel, tackle it as soon as possible. The longer a stain sits, the harder it can be to remove.
Spot Cleaning:
For minor stains, consider spot cleaning with a mixture of water and mild detergent. Gently blot the stain, avoiding excessive rubbing that could damage the fabric.
4. Rotate Your Towels
Build a Collection:
If you’re a dedicated yogi, it might be worth having a few yoga towels on rotation. This not only ensures that you always have a fresh towel ready, but it also reduces the frequency of washing each towel.
5. Mind the Environment
Choose Eco-Friendly Detergents:
If you’re environmentally conscious, opt for eco-friendly detergents. They are often gentler on fabrics and safer for the planet.
Consider Hand Washing:
Hand washing your yoga towel not only gives you better control over the process but also reduces water and energy consumption compared to machine washing.
6. Storage Matters
Keep It Dry:
When you’re not using your yoga towel, store it in a dry and well-ventilated area.
Moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth, which is not what you want on your towel.
Avoid Sharp Objects:
Be cautious about storing your towel near sharp objects or Velcro, which can snag the fabric and cause damage.
FAQs: Your Yoga Towel Care Questions Answered
We understand that when it comes to caring for your yoga towel, you might have some questions. We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to provide you with even more clarity on how to maintain your yoga towel in the best possible way.
Q1: Can I use regular detergent to wash my yoga towel?
Yes, you can use a mild and gentle detergent to wash your yoga towel. Avoid harsh detergents and fabric softeners, as they can damage the fabric and affect its absorbency.
Q2: How often should I wash my yoga towel?
It’s a good practice to wash your yoga towel after every few uses, especially if you’re practicing hot yoga or sweating heavily. If your towel gets particularly dirty, consider washing it sooner.
Q3: Can I put my yoga towel in the dryer?
It’s best to avoid using a dryer for your yoga towel, as the heat can damage the fabric and affect its texture. Instead, opt for air drying by laying the towel flat on a drying rack or hanging it up in a well-ventilated area.
Q4: My yoga towel has a stubborn stain. What should I do?
For stubborn stains, you can try spot cleaning the affected area with a mixture of water and mild detergent. Gently blot the stain instead of rubbing it vigorously, as aggressive scrubbing can damage the fabric.
Q5: Can I wash my yoga towel with other clothing items?
While you can wash your yoga towel with other clothing items, it’s a good idea to wash towels separately to prevent lint transfer. If you choose to wash them together, make sure to avoid overloading the machine.
Q6: How can I prevent my yoga towel from fading?
To prevent fading, wash your yoga towel in cold water and avoid using hot water.
Additionally, opt for mild detergents and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during drying.
Q7: Can I use bleach to clean my yoga towel?
It’s best to avoid using bleach on your yoga towel, as it can weaken the fabric fibers and affect the colors. Stick to mild detergents and gentle cleaning methods.
Q8: My yoga towel feels less absorbent. What can I do?
If your yoga towel feels less absorbent over time, it might be due to detergent residue. Run an extra rinse cycle after washing to ensure all detergent is thoroughly rinsed out.
Q9: How do I store my yoga towel when I’m not using it?
Store your yoga towel in a dry and well-ventilated area to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Avoid storing it near sharp objects that could snag the fabric.
Q10: Can I use essential oils in the wash to make my yoga towel smell nice?
While some people enjoy using essential oils, be cautious when adding them to the wash.
Certain oils might leave residue on the fabric or cause skin irritation. If you decide to use essential oils, use them sparingly and ensure they are safe for fabrics.