Explore the numerous health advantages of practicing on a chemical-free, non-toxic yoga mat and learn about how it can boost your yoga experience
Yoga is meant to connect us with our bodies and provide a sense of inner peace. Yet the very mat we unroll to find our zen may be exposing us to harmful toxins.
Typical yoga mats are often made using materials like PVC that can be absorbed through the skin and into our system as we flow through downward dog. Substances found in many yoga mats have been linked to endocrine disruption, respiratory irritation, and other adverse health effects.
The good news is there are plenty of mats on the market that are made from eco-friendly materials that aren’t hazardous to your health.
These eco-friendly mats swap out hazardous materials for safer, sustainable products like natural tree rubber, cork, organic cotton, and jute.
Avoiding harmful chemicals has a lot of positive upsides for your yoga practice. Practicing on a non-toxic exercise mat can actually deepen your yoga experience and amplify yoga’s many benefits.
In this post, we’ll explore the many health advantages of unrolling a non-toxic yoga mat and provide you with some of the best non-toxic yoga mats that we know you’ll love.
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The Toxic Truth About Conventional Yoga Mats
Standard yoga mats seem innocuous enough – just a soft surface to stand, sit, and stretch on. However, beneath their bright colors and squishy texture lies a harsh reality: most yoga mats contain a toxic cocktail of hazardous chemicals.
Many yoga mats you come across are made using PVC plastic. To make a PVC mat more flexible, chemical additives called phthalates are added during production. Studies have found phthalates are harmful to human health and are linked to hormone disruption, asthma, breast cancer, and reproductive issues. Lead and cadmium may also be present, posing risks like kidney damage and developmental delays.
During your flow, these substances can leach out of your PVC yoga mat and can be absorbed through your skin. Hardening rubber creates chemicals that can be released into the air as your yoga mat ages that you might inadvertently breathe in every time you use it. So, while you’re flowing, you may also be exposing yourself to substances linked to serious health conditions.
Yoga is meant to help us unwind and de-stress. But imagining all those unseen toxins seeping into your body is enough to make anyone tense up. The good news is you can take control by choosing a non-toxic yoga mat.
Opting for an eco-friendly yoga mat made with safer materials like natural tree rubber, cotton, and jute allows you to reduce your chemical exposure. And your yoga practice will feel more relaxing, knowing your mat isn’t polluting your personal space.
How To Make Sure You Are Purchasing The Best Non Toxic Yoga Mat
After learning about the health hazards of a cheap, toxic yoga mat, you probably want to ensure your next yoga mat is eco-friendly and made toxin-free. But with all the options on the market, how can you identify the best non-toxic yoga mat that is truly toxin-free?
First, let’s define what makes a sustainable yoga mat “non-toxic.” These sustainable yoga mats avoid hazardous chemicals like PVC, phthalates, and heavy metals. Instead, they use safer, eco-friendly materials like natural rubber, organic cotton, jute, and cork.
When shopping for a non-toxic yoga mat, look for mats that are certified by third-party organizations, such as OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 or Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). These certifications ensure that your yoga mat is free of harmful chemicals and has been produced in an ethical and sustainable manner.
Reading labels and descriptions carefully is key – terms like “natural,” “organic,” and “eco-friendly” are good signs. But don’t stop there – make sure specific materials like “100% natural rubber” “100 cotton” or “PVC-free” are explicitly stated. Asking questions and really vetting claims from manufacturers is important to get the full toxic-free picture.
Investing in a non-toxic yoga mat is investing in your health and aligning your practice with yoga’s wellness goals. Taking the time to research and understand what your yoga mats are made from ensures safety for your body and peace of mind.
Suggested Reading: Organic Cotton Yoga Pants: Breathe Easy With These 5 PFAS-Free Brands
The Surprising Health Benefits of Non-Toxic Yoga Mats
Switching to non-toxic yoga mats does more than just reduce your chemical exposure – it can provide some unexpected health bonuses.
When you remove hazardous substances from your yoga practice, you eliminate the risk of absorbing toxins through your skin and lungs during your flow. This directly safeguards your health. Studies show reducing contact with chemicals like phthalates and heavy metals can improve outcomes related to respiration, skin irritation, immune function, and more.
Non-toxic yoga mats also prevent injuries and discomfort that can cut your practice short. A rubber mat can provide proper grip during poses, reducing slips. And their hypoallergenic nature prevents skin irritations that toxic yoga mats can cause. You’ll feel comfortable holding stretches longer and avoiding distractions.
Beyond mitigating health risks, non-toxic yoga mats also align with yoga’s larger mission of cultivating mindfulness. You can fully focus on your poses and breathing, knowing you’ve created a purer, safer space for you. Rather than worrying about exposure to toxic materials, you’ll feel relaxed during every sequence.
Your increased presence and mindfulness enhance stress reduction, mental clarity, and inner tranquility.
Choosing the Best Non-Toxic Yoga Mat for You
When shopping for the best yoga mat that doesn’t contain toxic chemicals, look for mats made from natural materials, such as:
- Natural rubber: Natural rubber is a sustainable and biodegradable material that is also free of harmful chemicals. Natural rubber yoga mats are very durable and provide good grip and cushioning. A good yoga mat made from 100% natural rubber or with natural rubber backing is always a safe bet.
- Cork: Cork is another sustainable and biodegradable yoga mat material that is also naturally anti-microbial and sweat-wicking. It is also very supportive and a good sticky mat that provides good traction.
- Organic cotton: Organic cotton is a more sustainable and environmentally friendly choice than conventional cotton. Cotton yoga mats are also free of harmful chemicals and pesticides, and its machine washable!
- Jute: Jute is a natural fiber that is very durable and absorbent. Jute yoga mats are also naturally anti-microbial and sweat-wicking.
You should also avoid the following toxic yoga mat materials:
- PVC (polyvinyl chloride): PVC is a type of plastic that is often used to make a cheap yoga mat. However, PVC can contain harmful chemicals, such as phthalates and lead.
- TPE (thermoplastic elastomer): TPE is another type of plastic that is sometimes used to make yoga mats. While TPE is generally considered to be safer than PVC, it can still contain harmful chemicals, such as bisphenol A (BPA).
When choosing the best yoga mat for you, it is also important to consider your individual needs and preferences. For example, if you have a latex allergy, you will need to choose a mat made from natural rubber that is latex-free. If you do hot yoga and sweat a lot, you may want to choose a mat made from a material that is absorbent and sweat-wicking.
Also, smell the mat before you buy it. If it has a strong rubber smell or chemical odor, it is best to avoid it.
- Consider the texture and thickness – more cushioning provides comfort for sensitive joints, while stickier textures give better grip.
- Factor in frequent yoga styles and poses. A hot yoga class with intense flows may fare better with more absorbent, grippy mats. Gentler classes can opt for softer, thinner mats.
- Look at convenience factors like size, weight, and ease of transport based on where you practice yoga. If traveling to classes, prioritize lighter mats that roll or fold up easily.
The 5 Best Eco-Friendly Yoga Mat Brands
1) Manduka
Manduka: The Gold Standard in Yoga Mats
The Manduka PRO is not just a yoga mat; it’s a commitment to a superior and lasting yoga experience. Widely recognized and vouched for by yoga instructors globally, it stands out as one of the most recommended rubber mats designed to last a lifetime.
Unparalleled Comfort & Support
With its ultra-dense cushioning over 5 mm thick, the PRO offers unmatched support, stability, and joint protection. Whether on hardwood floors or grassy patches, this eco-friendly yoga mat promises a comfortable practice on any surface.
Ethically Crafted
Made with precision and care, each PRO mat is handcrafted in a German facility that guarantees zero emissions. The 100% latex-free PVC used has received the STANDARD 100 certification by OEKO-TEX. It’s worth noting that while each mat is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the handmade nature means there might be slight variations in length, width, or thickness.
A Commitment to the Planet
Beyond its impeccable performance, the Manduka PRO is a testament to sustainable choices. In a world where PVC yoga mats often end up in landfills, the PRO series attempts to actively reduce waste.
Manduka’s mats are designed to last a lifetime and are manufactured in a way that ensures no toxic emissions are released, safeguarding our air quality. This commitment is further underscored by the PRO mat’s OEKO-TEX certification, which affirms its safety.
2) JadeYoga
Meet the Jade Harmony Yoga Mat, your perfect yoga companion. Their yoga mats with natural rubber backing measure 3/16” in thickness and 24” in width and are the perfect fusion of grip, comfort, and manageability. Revered by yoga aficionados and instructors globally, you’ll love using this beautiful yoga mat.
Unmatched Grip and Support
Made from natural, open-cell rubber, the Jade Harmony Yoga Mat comes with unparalleled cushioning, far outstripping synthetic rubber counterparts. Its anti-slip surface has an unbeatable grip that is great for hot yoga, so you can hold poses with confidence and finesse.
Eco-Conscious and Safe
JadeYoga is synonymous with sustainability. Their sustainable cork yoga mats are proudly crafted in the USA and utilize sustainably sourced natural rubber. All of their yoga mats steer clear of PVC, phthalates, heavy metals, and harmful chemicals.
3) Yoloha
Yoloha has quickly established itself as a front-runner in the world of sustainable yoga. Created by yogis, for yogis, Yoloha creates high-performance yoga mats that are also good for the planet.
Comfortable for You, Kind to the Earth
Crafted with both the yogi and our planet in mind, the Aura foam and cork mat ensures unmatched comfort. Its extra thick padding, made from their proprietary non-toxic Plant Foam, offers gentle support for your knees and wrists, making every pose a little bit easier. The Yoloha cork yoga mats, with their signature sustainable cork surface, promises the ultimate non-slip grip for both your hands and feet. Weighing in at just 2.8 lbs, it’s the perfect companion for those on-the-move yoga sessions
Versatility at its Best
The Aura Cork Yoga Mat is perfect for yogis of any level. The cork and rubber sustainable yoga mats ensure you have the grip and support you need, whether you’re flowing through a Vinyasa or settling into a Yin practice. However, for those intense hot yoga classes where sweat might pool on your mat, you may want to go with their Native or Original Yoga Mats.
The cork in Yoloha’s products isn’t just any cork. It’s 100% renewable and recyclable. Even better, it’s sourced through one of the most eco-friendly harvesting methods. No trees are felled. Instead, the bark is carefully hand-stripped every nine years. Every bit of the bark is used in the cork production process, with leftovers granulated for other cork products and dust used for fuel.
Along with their Plant Foam, which is 55% derived from sugarcane, each Yohala eco-friendly yoga mat is composed of 70% renewable materials. You can rest easy knowing their plant foam contains zero PVCs, latex, plasticizers, or that typical rubber yoga mat smell.
4) Anja Wellbeing
In the sea of yoga mats available today, Ajna Wellbeing’s high-quality Natural Jute Yoga Mats stand out, not just for their quality but for their ethical backbone.
Unlike many yoga mats that degrade quickly or are crafted from detrimental materials, Ajna’s jute yoga mat is made from premium organic natural fibers.
This ensures longevity, resistance to unpleasant odors sweat stains, and provides a superior non-slip experience. In other words, it’s a win for your yoga routine and the environment.
Enduring Quality
Say goodbye to yoga mats that stretch, slide, or wear out quickly. Ajna’s yoga mats are made of jute and will last for years to come, repelling smells and stains while ensuring durability.
Optimal Thickness
While many yoga mats might boast thickness, they often lack the essential density to truly support your body. Ajna’s mat, with its unique blend of organic jute and per, offers both comfort and grip, ensuring every pose is steady and your joints remain happy.
Portable & Practical
Heavy yoga mats that curl up or emit off-putting odors can hamper your practice. Ajna’s lightweight design ensures portability is a breeze. Simply roll it up, sling the cotton strap over your shoulder, or hang it out of sight. And, it unfurls flat, right from the start! Cleaning is just as simple: a wipe-down with water or a mild disinfectant like eucalyptus oil will do.
Eco-Conscious Commitment
Ajna’s jute yoga mat steers clear of harmful chemicals, latex, BPA, 6p phthalate, and heavy metals. For every mat you purchase, a tree is planted, furthering the cycle of sustainability.
Versatile & All-Encompassing
Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned yogi, Ajna’s jute yoga mat supports your journey. Perfect for various yoga styles, including hot yoga, pilates, exercise classes, or even just a moment of relaxation.
5) Halfmoon Handmade
Halfmoon Handmade is a company that specializes in handcrafted yoga and meditation essentials. They are known for their high-quality, sustainable yoga mats, which are made with eco-friendly materials and ethical practices.
Their organic cotton yoga mats are their most popular products. Their Halfmoon Handmade Organic Cotton Yoga Mat is made from 100% organic cotton, which is a soft and durable material that is also gentle on the skin. This sustainable yoga mat is also naturally absorbent and breathable, which helps to keep you dry and comfortable during your yoga practice.
Woven With Integrity and Skill
All of their organic cotton yoga mats are handwoven by skilled artisans in India, embodying a robust and enduring quality that sets them apart. By consciously aligning with the fair-trade movement, Halfmoon not only fosters employment in rural areas but also champions improved social and environmental standards within local communities.
Hygienic, Breathable, and Refreshingly Comfortable
The organic cotton fabric invites a breathable and hygienic experience, boasting natural cooling properties that keep your yoga classes fresh and comfortable. Its inherent ability to wick away moisture and sweat further elevates its hygiene factor. Effortlessly washable, you’re assured a refreshingly clean mat with every practice.
Tips for Caring for Your Non-Toxic Yoga Mat
Cleaning
- Clean your yoga mat regularly to remove sweat, dirt, and bacteria. This will help to prevent the mat from breaking down and developing an odor.
- To clean your mat, simply wipe it down with a damp cloth and a mild soap or detergent. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the mat.
- If your mat is very dirty, you can soak it in a bathtub or sink filled with lukewarm water and a mild soap or detergent for 15-20 minutes. Then, rinse the mat thoroughly and hang it to dry.
Storage
- When you are not using your yoga mat, roll it up and store it in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing your mat in direct sunlight or near heat sources, as this can damage the material.
- If you are storing your mat for an extended period of time, you may want to sprinkle it with baking soda to help absorb moisture and prevent mold growth.
Additional Tips
- Be careful not to overstretch your yoga mat. This can cause the mat to tear or break.
- Avoid using your yoga mat on rough surfaces, such as concrete or asphalt.
- If you have a natural rubber yoga mat, you may want to condition it occasionally with a natural rubber conditioner. This will help to keep the mat from drying out and cracking.
This post was all about non toxic yoga mat brands.
Yoga connects us to our inner selves, yet the mat we practice on could be exposing us to toxic chemicals that disrupt our health and wellbeing. Many standard yoga mats contain phthalates, lead, and other hazardous substances that are absorbed into our bodies as we flow through our asanas.
The good news is there are plenty of yoga mats made from safer, natural materials like rubber, cotton, cork and jute. Choosing an eco-friendly yoga mat free from PVC, phthalates and other toxins is a simple way to protect your health.
Practicing on a non-toxic mat enhances your yoga experience. Knowing your mat isn’t emitting harmful substances into your personal space allows you to relax and reap all the benefits yoga has to offer.
We encourage you to explore the best eco friendly yoga and-friendly yoga mat options we’ve covered, like those from reputable brands Manduka, JadeYoga, Anja Wellbeing, Halfmoon Hadmade, and Yoloha. Invest in a high-quality mat made from natural materials that’s free from toxins. Your body and the earth will thank you.
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