Yoga mats, despite their rubbery reputation, often betray us when we need them most: during a sweaty Vinyasa flow or a deep Warrior II hold. A slippery mat isn’t just frustrating; it’s a safety hazard. But you can make your yoga mat less slippery without buying a new one. Whether you’re an experienced yogi or a newbie still figuring out your left foot from your right, these simple fixes will keep you grounded, stable, and drama-free during every pose.
Here are steps to fix a slippery yoga mat at home
Your Mat’s “First Week” Phase
New yoga mats are like stiff jeans, they need time to soften and grip. That factory-coated surface? Designed to repel everything, including your sweat. To fix this:
- Scrub it raw (gently): Rub the mat with a coarse towel or sponge and warm water. This removes the slick layer without damaging the material.
- Sweat it out: Use your mat daily for a week. Body oils and friction naturally wear down the surface, creating micro-grips.
Bonus tip: Avoid spritzing a brand-new mat with cleaners right away. Let it “breathe” and bond with your practice first.
Clean It But Not How You Think
A dirty mat is a slippery mat. Over time, dirt, oils, and lotions build up, creating a barrier between you and your mat. But not all cleaning methods are equal:
- Skip the soap-heavy sprays: Harsh chemicals strip natural grip. Instead, mix 1 part white vinegar with 3 parts water in a spray bottle. Spritz and wipe with a microfiber cloth.
- Deep-clean weekly: Use a mild detergent (like dish soap) diluted in water. Scrub gently with a textured cloth, rinse thoroughly, and air-dry.
Pro trick: After cleaning, sprinkle baking soda on the mat, let it sit for 10 minutes, then brush it off. This absorbs residual oils and deodorizes.
Use Towels
If your mat’s grip is beyond saving (or you’re in a humid climate), a yoga towel is a game-changer. These aren’t your bathroom hand towels—they’re grippy, sweat-absorbent rectangles designed to lie over your mat. Here’s how to use one:
- Choose wisely: Look for a towel with microfiber on one side and a rubbery grip on the other. Brands like Lululemon and Manduka make affordable options.
- Dampen it slightly: A barely-wet towel sticks better than a dry one. Mist it with water before laying it on your mat.
No yoga towel? Use a thin bath towel folded in half. Just pin it down with your hands or feet during poses.
DIY Grip Sprays
Think of grip sprays as hairspray for your mat—except they’re made for yoga. But you don’t need to buy them. Whip up your own:
- Citrus grip: Mix 10 drops of lemon or orange essential oil with 1 cup water and 1 teaspoon witch hazel. The citrus oils add grip while smelling fresh.
- Saltwater magic: Dissolve 2 tablespoons of sea salt in 1 cup warm water. Spritz on and wipe with a dry cloth. Salt exfoliates the mat’s surface, creating texture.
Spray lightly before each session. Too much liquid = soggy mat = back to square one.
Excessive sweat
Excessive sweat = slippery palms and feet = a wobbly mat. Combat this with smart prep:
- Wash up pre-practice: Use a damp cloth to wipe your hands, feet, and face. Less oil = less slippage.
- Wear grips: Fingerless gloves and toe socks with rubber dots grip your mat and your ego. They’re especially handy for hot yoga.
Hydrate smartly: Sip water before class instead of chugging right before you start. Dehydration = sweatier palms.
Floor Matters More Than You Think
Your mat doesn’t exist in a vacuum. The surface beneath it affects grip:
- Avoid tile or wood floors: These are naturally slick. If you must use them, place a non-slip underlay (like a rubber shelf liner) beneath your mat.
- Carpet is your ally: Thick carpets create friction, anchoring your mat. If your studio has carpet, skip the towel.
Pro hack: Tape the corners of your mat to the floor with double-sided rug tape. It’s removable and won’t leave residue.
Buy New yoga Mat
If none of the above work, your mat might be a lost cause. Cheap PVC mats are notoriously slippery and wear out fast. Invest in a grippy, eco-friendly option:
- Natural rubber mats: Brands like Jade Yoga and AmazonBasics offer sticky, biodegradable mats that grip even when wet.
- Cork mats: Antimicrobial and grippy when damp (perfect for hot yoga). Try Gaiam’s cork line.
Budget tip: Buy a secondhand high-quality mat online. Sites like eBay or Facebook Marketplace often have nearly new ones for half the price.
“Dry Run” Technique
Before flowing into Sun Salutations, prime your mat:
- Blot with a microfiber cloth: This removes invisible moisture or dust.
- Warm it up: Roll it out in sunlight for 10 minutes. Heat activates the grip in rubber mats.
Never store your mat wet. Roll it up and leave it in a warm, dry spot—like next to a heater or under your bed.
Chalk It Up: A Climber’s Secret for Yogis
Rock climbers use chalk to keep their hands dry. You can too:
- Rub chalk powder on palms/soles: It’s messy but effective. Opt for unscented gym chalk to avoid clogging pores in your mat.
- Use chalk blocks: Smudge them on your mat’s high-contact areas (like where your hands land in Plank Pose).
Downside: Chalk dries out some mats over time. Test on a small area first.
Adjust Your Practice to the Mat
Sometimes the solution is mental, not physical. Modify poses to reduce slippage:
- Shorten your stance: In Warrior poses, bring feet closer together for better balance.
- Shift weight backward: In Downward Dog, walk your knees in slightly to take pressure off slippery heels.
Use props: Blocks under your hands in Plank Pose or a strap around your thighs in Bridge Pose.
“Rug Rug” Hack: Texture Over Texture
Place a small, non-slip rug or textured fabric under your mat. The added friction keeps the mat from sliding around, especially on smooth floors. Bonus: It cushions joints without sacrificing stability.
Reinvent Your Warm-Up Routine
Cold muscles = shaky balance = more slips. Warm up smarter:
- Do dynamic stretches: Arm circles, ankle rolls, and neck tilts get blood flowing.
- Hold poses longer: Spend extra time in Mountain Pose or Cat-Cow to “bond” with your mat before moving.
Use the “Mat Sandwich” Method
Layer a thin, grippy towel between two mats. The top mat gets less sweaty, and the towel adds friction. Works wonders if you’re sharing mats or using a friend’s questionable gear.
Go Barefoot… or Not
Bare feet offer more grip than socks, but if your studio’s floor is icy, wear grippy socks. Conversely, sweaty socks = slippery socks. Choose moisture-wicking fabrics with silicone dots.
Check Environment
Humidity and cold floors are enemies of traction. If practicing at home:
- Turn up the heat: A warmer room reduces condensation on your mat.
- Close windows/doors: Drafts make floors chilly and mats slippery.
At studios, scout for mats near heaters or ask the instructor for “grippy” recommendations.
