There's a reason Liforme mats are so loved in the yoga world.
"That unique, confidence-inspiring feeling of grip."
For many practitioners, this grip acts like a support that lets them move more boldly in challenging poses. But behind this performance lies a cleverly designed surface technology.
And just like a precision instrument, Liforme mats need the right care to keep performing at their best.
Why Is Cleaning So Important?
The surface of a Liforme mat is actually very similar to our skin.
Its top layer has microscopic pores that absorb sweat and let it evaporate quickly. This porous structure is the secret behind Liforme's famous non-slip grip.
Over time, however, these pores can become clogged by:
- The natural oils on our skin
- The body lotions we use
- Dust and dirt from the environment
When the pores are clogged, the mat's ability to absorb moisture, and with it the grip performance, can decrease.
Routine Care: Every 2-4 Practices
Rather than after every practice, it's recommended that you clean your Liforme mat every 2 to 4 practices, depending on how often you use it.
Here's the ideal cleaning process, step by step:
1. Preparation and Drying
Rolling up your mat and putting it in its bag as soon as class ends may seem convenient. Ideally, though, you should let the mat dry.
You can roll it up right after class and take it home. But once you get home, the healthiest approach is to unroll your mat and leave it flat to dry.
2. Gentle Cleaning
Fill a bowl with lukewarm water and add just one drop of dish soap.
Dampen a soft, non-abrasive sponge with this mixture.
The key here is that the sponge shouldn't be too wet. We're not "washing" the mat, we're gently wiping it.
3. Drying
Lay your mat on a flat surface and leave it to dry.
Important: Because Liforme mats are made from biodegradable natural materials, they are sensitive to light. That's why you should never dry your mat in direct sunlight or next to a radiator.
If Your Mat Has Lost Its Grip: Deep Cleaning
If you notice that your mat doesn't grip as well as it used to, it may mean the pores need a deep clean.
In that case, you can try one of these two methods:
Method A: Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate) Solution
Mix water with baking soda and wipe the surface of the mat with a soft cloth. Then let it dry.
You can repeat this 2-3 times until you feel the pores have opened up.
Method B: Diluted White Vinegar
A heavily diluted mixture — a little vinegar and a lot of water — can also help loosen stubborn dirt.
You can try both methods. Don't hesitate to repeat them as many times as needed to truly clean the pores.
Storage and Tips to Extend Its Life
You've cleaned and dried your mat. Now, how should you store it?
| Topic | Right Way |
|---|---|
| Rolling | Roll it with the colored side facing out |
| Storage Environment | At room temperature, out of the sun |
| Extreme Heat / Cold | Avoid places like a car trunk or balcony |
| Deep Cleaning Frequency | Recommended no more than once every 2-4 months |
What to Avoid
- Don't use hard or abrasive sponges
- Don't put the mat in the washing machine
- Avoid harsh chemical cleaners
- Don't dry it in direct sunlight or next to a radiator
- Don't roll it up and bag it while it's wet
Final Word
Your Liforme mat is a valuable investment that accompanies you throughout your yoga practice.
The right cleaning and care don't just keep your mat looking clean; they also help you preserve that flawless first-day grip.
Take good care of your mat, and it will take good care of your practice.
If you'd like to explore Liforme mats, take a look at the Stilefit yoga mat collection.