If you are like us, you try to do your best with sustainability. In our yoga practice, we learned the importance of non-toxic yoga mats. We will tell you why eco-friendly yoga is important and what to look for in yoga mats.
Our lifestyle change included a lot of pivoting, but one thing that we have enjoyed is our wellness journey. Not only has it helped our physical health, but our mental health as well.
It is one of the best ways we practice positive wellness at home.
Why Are Non-Toxic Yoga Mats Important?
If you think about anything you purchase, you want the product to be made sustainably. Not only is it important for the environment but also for your health and the people who make the items.
You can read more here about what to look for in sustainable and ethical brands.
You may not have even known that there was such a thing as toxic yoga mats, but similar to plastic, as your body heats up on a mat, your body’s pores open. We take in substances through our skin. Most people know not to eat from microwaved plastic these days. Consider the same regarding the products you use or wear for exercise.
What Materials Should I Look for in Non-Toxic Yoga Mats?
Again, research any product you purchase, but you can look for certain things. For example, you can look for certified organic cotton, cork yoga mats, natural rubber or latex, or even wool.
You may even consider a yoga rug, but we will get more into that.
Choosing the Best Non-Toxic Yoga Mat
We have done extensive research on the best non-toxic yoga mats and have tried many during ecotourism adventures.
Many eco-minded wellness retreats will have yoga rugs for their eco-friendly yoga practice.
Here are our top picks for non-toxic yoga mats:
1. Gaiam Cork Yoga Exercise Mat
If you have ever had a standard yoga mat, you will flip out when you use a cork one. Ok, maybe not flip out, but the grip is just amazing. Gaiam is a top brand in yoga so there is no surprise that they have an amazing recycled cork yoga mat. Since cork is natural and comes from the cork oak tree, this yoga mat is non-toxic and eco-friendly.
Bonus: Gaiam’s brand uses eco-friendly and sustainable practices. We love that.
2. Bennd Yoga Mat
This Ayurvedic mat is made from 100% organically and ethically sourced cotton. Since it is artisan-made, no two are alike. Small-batch creation is better for the environment.
3. Manduka EKO SuperLite Yoga Mat
Made of natural tree rubber, this mat has a fantastic grip! It was developed by yoga instructors so it supports your yoga practice in a functional way. It’s also light and travel-friendly.
4. Bharat Yoga Rug
This rug is great for your yoga flow. Due to its jute look, it will complement any meditation area. It is made of organic cotton and is handmade. You can roll it up and take it along your travels or just keep it at home.
5. YogaKargha Organic Cotton Mat
This great travel mat folds and rolls easily, making it super minimalist packing-friendly. Handmade in India, it is soft, cushiony, and also beautiful.
6. Jade Yoga Mysore Yoga Rug
Made of organic cotton and artisan made, we love this for it’s sustainable make-up, but this is our favorite for yoga on the beach. Sand can easily be shaken out of it, but it is a great barrier between you and the sand.
7. Alo Yoga Tie Dye Warrior Mat
This mat will not only allow yours to stand-out from the rest of the yogis, but it is made of natural rubber. Win! The matte finish makes for a great non-skid affect and provides great cushion for the heels of your palms.
8. House of Peshtemal Yoga Towel
We love this yoga towel for beach yoga and for general stretching in our home. This is made of organic cotton, and the business has eco-friendly practices, such as making sure that they use local shipping so it has less mileage to travel within the United States.
What other non-toxic yoga items should I consider?
Now that you are thinking of making your yoga practices more eco-friendly and sustainable, let’s talk about some other items we love.
Yoga Blocks Made from Cardboard
Yes, it is really made of cardboard. These blocks are sturdy and a great way to repurpose an often bulky product that sits in the landfills.
Yoga Blocks Made from Cork
Again, cork is naturally derived from the cork oak tree, so we love these blocks that are not only eco-friendly, sustainable, but adorable!
Eco-friendly Yoga Straps
Whether you are a beginner or want some help with your grip, you may want to consider yoga straps. We love naturally made straps that are extra long and extra wide.
Go the Non-Toxic Route With Your Yoga Practice
If you are beginning your yoga practice, you are already in the wellness frame. Why not take it further and consider implementing sustainable products like non-toxic yoga mats into your practice? It is the best way to maximize the benefits of wellness.
FAQs | Frequently Asked Questions
You will find many PVC mats that say “eco-friendly,” but they are not eco-friendly. PVC (Polyvinyl chloride) is considered to be one of the most toxic plastics, and not good for the environment. You should also stay away from “eco-friendly PER” as it is made of PVC. This is why we left the Manduka off of our list.
You can use a non-toxic mat wash like Renewal Wash or make your own with witch hazel, tea tree oil, and distilled water. For cloth mats and rugs, follow each item’s directions.
Yes, non-toxic yoga mats are often made from materials like natural rubber, cork, or TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer), which are designed to be both eco-friendly and resilient. It does depend on your care for the yoga mats, so be sure to care for them appropriately and in a non-toxic manner.
