A slippery yoga mat can be more than just frustrating—it can be dangerous. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned yogi, slipping during practice can throw off your flow and increase the risk of injury. Fortunately, there are ways to improve the grip of your mat and make your practice safer and more enjoyable.
Understanding why your yoga mat is slippery is the first step in fixing the problem. From new mats that need breaking in to sweat accumulation and product residue, several factors contribute to reduced traction. Once you identify the cause, you can take effective steps to enhance grip and stability.
Why Your Yoga Mat Feels Slippery
Before jumping into solutions, it’s important to determine what’s making your mat slippery. Here are some common reasons:
1. New Mats Need Breaking In
Many yoga mats, especially those made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), tend to be slippery when new. Even high-quality mats like the Manduka PRO have a slick surface at first. Over time, with consistent use, they become grippier as the top layer wears down.
2. Material Differences Affect Grip
Yoga mats come in different materials, each with unique textures and grip levels. Mats made from rubber, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), and polyurethane tend to offer better traction right out of the package. In contrast, PVC mats require more time and effort to develop a non-slip surface.
3. Oily Skin or Lotions Reduce Grip
Applying moisturizer before a yoga session can make your mat more slippery. The oils and lotions on your hands and feet create a slick surface, making it harder to hold poses.
4. Sweat Buildup Creates Slippage
Sweating during a yoga session, especially in heated or Bikram yoga classes, can cause your mat to become slippery. Some people naturally sweat more than others, making them more prone to losing grip.
5. Difficult Poses Can Make You Slip
Some yoga poses require more stability and control. If you’re struggling with certain movements, you may find yourself slipping, not necessarily because of the mat, but due to technique or strength imbalances.
How to Fix a Slippery Yoga Mat
Once you’ve identified the cause of your slippery mat, it’s time to find the best solution. Here are some practical ways to improve traction:
1. Break in Your Mat with Regular Use
If you have a new PVC mat, the best way to make it less slippery is to use it frequently. Over time, the surface will wear down naturally, creating a rougher texture that provides better grip. The more you practice, the faster your mat will develop the traction you need.
2. Wash Your Yoga Mat
Washing your mat can help remove factory coatings, dirt, and oils that contribute to slipperiness. Here’s how to clean your mat effectively:
- Hand Wash: Use warm water and a gentle cloth to wipe down the surface. Avoid harsh soaps that can leave residue.
- Machine Wash (If Safe): Some thinner PVC mats can go through a washing machine’s gentle cycle, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Air Dry Thoroughly: Yoga mats are highly absorbent, so make sure they dry completely before using them again. This can take a couple of days.
Additionally, washing your hands and feet before practice can prevent oil and sweat from transferring onto your mat.
3. Use a Yoga Towel for Extra Grip
If sweating is causing your mat to become slippery, a yoga towel can help. There are two ways to use one effectively:
- Hand Towel: Place a small towel at the top of your mat to wipe your hands during practice.
- Full Yoga Towel: Cover your entire mat with a specialized towel, such as the Yogitoes Skidless towel, which provides extra traction.
Yoga towels are especially useful for hot yoga classes where sweating is inevitable.
4. Choose the Right Mat for Your Needs
If your current mat isn’t providing the grip you need, consider investing in a different material. Here’s a quick comparison of popular yoga mat types:
- PVC Mats: Durable but require breaking in. Example: Manduka PRO.
- Rubber Mats: Naturally grippy and eco-friendly. Example: Jade Harmony.
- TPE Mats: Lightweight, cushioned, and non-toxic. Example: Kulae TPE mats.
- Polyurethane Mats: Excellent traction but require more maintenance. Example: Liforme mats.
If sustainability is important to you, rubber and TPE mats are biodegradable options that also provide good grip.
What to Avoid When Fixing a Slippery Mat
While there are several effective ways to improve traction, some methods can do more harm than good. Here are things to avoid:
- Avoid Apple Cider Vinegar: Some sources recommend using vinegar to clean your mat, but it is too acidic and can damage materials like rubber, TPE, and polyurethane.
- Don’t Expose Your Mat to Excessive Sunlight or Salt: While some believe sunlight can help break in a mat, too much exposure can cause materials to degrade prematurely. Salt can also be abrasive and damage certain types of mats.
- Don’t Use Harsh Chemicals: Stick to mild soap or just water when cleaning your mat. Harsh chemicals can leave a residue that may increase slipperiness.
Final Thoughts
A slippery yoga mat can be frustrating, but with the right approach, you can improve its traction and stability. Whether it’s breaking in a new mat, washing it, or using a yoga towel, simple solutions can make a big difference in your practice.
By understanding the cause of the slipperiness, choosing the right mat, and maintaining it properly, you can ensure a safer and more enjoyable yoga experience. Keep practicing, stay mindful, and soon your mat will provide the grip you need to flow effortlessly through your poses.
