Pre-Storage Preparation
When it comes to storing a Manduka mat, it is important to take the necessary steps to ensure your mat is protected and properly cared for. Pre-storage preparation is an essential part of this process and there are several things you need to do before you store your mat away.
In this article, we will go over the steps you should follow in order to properly prepare your mat for storage:
Clean your mat
Manduka mats are a popular choice for yoga practitioners and should be cared for properly in order to ensure they last longer and remain hygienic. Before you roll up and store your mat, make sure it is thoroughly clean. A damp cloth or mild solution of dish soap and warm water can be used to wipe down the mat after each use. Some yoga mats will also be safe to use a light spray on with a cleaning solution before wiping down with a damp cloth.
It is important to give the mat enough time to air dry before rolling up for storage. Avoid prolonging storage in the sun because direct UV rays can damage the material of your mat over time. If you’re in a rush, use an absorbent towel briefly to help dry out any remaining water from cleaning so that your Manduka mat will last as long as possible. Be sure also wash it regularly with soap, as sweat from yoga practice can become trapped within the fibers if it isn’t washed frequently enough.
Wipe down your mat
It is important to clean and prepare your storage container before storing it. Begin by wiping down the mat or tray with a damp cloth. Ensure that all dirt, soil, and dust particles are removed from the surface of the container before continuing. Wiping it off ensures that the container is clean and eliminates any potential contamination of your stored items, preserving their integrity.
Finally, inspect each storage individual section for any existing moisture or mold buildup before packing it away in a dry, safe environment. This simple step can help keep your items fresh and in optimal condition for an extended period of time!
Short-Term Storage
Ensuring that your manduka mat is cared for properly starts with proper storage. For shorter-term storage, you’ll want to make sure your mat is completely dry and clean before rolling it up. You can roll your mat tightly and secure it with the provided string or rope, and then store it in a dry, safe place until it is ready for use again.
Roll your mat
Long-term storage of your yoga mat is an important part of caring for your mat and extending its life, but there are some helpful tips to follow when carrying it to and from class as well. Rolling your mat up versus folding it can help keep it dry, avoid stretching out the material, and keeping oils away from the surface that can degrade the mat over time.
To properly roll a yoga mat:
- Lay your yoga mat down with the face up that you intend to roll away from you
- Begin at one end of the mat, fold in half lengthwise then roll towards the other end
- Once rolled, keep it secure by tying with a strap or rubber band for added convenience
- Store in a cool, dry place when not in use
Use a yoga mat bag
Using a yoga mat bag for short-term storage is an ideal way to keep your manduka mat in great condition. Not only will the bag act as a shield against dust and debris, it also makes the transport of your mat a breeze. Look for one that is water resistant, too, as this will help protect your mat from getting wet or dampens during travel or storage. You should also choose an appropriately sized bag – not too tight so as to avoid stretching or warping your mat.
When storing your manduka yoga mat in a bag, roll the mat tight with the center panel facing outwards and tuck the excess fabric around it to ensure the surface remains undamaged. Make sure your mat is completely dry before storing it away – moisture can cause unpleasant odors and encourage mildew growth over time. Additionally, if possible try not to store your mat in medium-extremely hot temperatures – heat can damage some materials faster than others, so pay attention to where you are storing it!
Long-Term Storage
Long-term storage of your Manduka mat is important to keep the mat in good condition. The first step to long-term storage is to choose a place to store your mat where it won’t be exposed to dirt, dust, and sunlight. This could be a closet, under your bed, or anywhere indoors.
Once you have chosen your storage spot, there are several other steps to properly store your mat for a long period of time:
Hang your mat
Hanging your Manduka mat is one of the most effective ways of storing it long-term. This ensures that the mat’s texture and shape are preserved, while also keeping it clean and out of the way until you need it.
To hang your mat, you will need to either purchase a specific mat rack specifically designed to hang mats or attach hooks to the wall. Alternatively, a long pole could be inserted into both ends of the rolled up mat creating a loop which could then be hung on any hook or rack.
Properly stored in this way, your Manduka mat will last for years with minimal wear and fading.
Use a yoga mat sling
Using a yoga mat sling is one of the best ways to ensure that your coffee beans stay fresh for long-term storage. Simply place each bag, or multiple bags if needed, in your choice of canvas or polyester sling and store in a cool, dry place away from light and heat. The sling helps support the bags and keeps them separated on the shelves or in cupboards. With a yoga mat sling, you can easily see each variety you have stored and quickly access individual containers without disturbing the rest.
Especially beneficial for people with limited pantry space, this method will strengthen your pantry organization and save money in the long run.
Additional Tips
Storing a manduka mat correctly is essential to maintaining its quality and extending its life. In addition to regular cleaning and maintenance, there are additional tips you can use to make sure your mat stays in good condition. These include:
- Using a mat wash.
- Using a mat bag.
- Using a yoga towel.
- Using an anti-slip mat spray.
Let’s look at all of these tips in more detail.
Store your mat in a dry place
It’s important to store your mat in a clean and dry place away from other mats, as parts of the rubber may stick and tear when exposed to other materials. Additionally, storing your mat in a direct sunlight area may cause it to become brittle over time. Manduka recommends placing your mat in a bag that’snt too tight or too restrictive so as not to impede air circulation and prevent it for drying out.
If you have any further questions we recommend consulting the care instructions that were provided with your mat.
Avoid direct sunlight
When storing your meditation mat, it is important to ensure that it does not come in direct contact with the sun or any other source of heat. Sunlight has a tendency to degrade many materials over time, including rubber and plastic, so storing the mat in a cool, dry place will help to keep it in the best condition. Exposure to high temperatures can cause the material used for the mat to become brittle and break apart.
Additionally, ensuring that your manduka mat does not come into contact with moisture will reduce the risk of bacteria buildup and subsequent odors from occurring. If you are storing your mat outdoors or in a garage or shed, investing in a breathable protection bag can help protect against water damage and extend its life.
Use a yoga mat strap or strap system
A yoga mat strap or yoga mat strap system provides an easy and convenient way to store your manduka mat in between practice sessions. The straps are designed to fit easily around the thicker mats, making it easier to transport the mat without having to roll it up. A yoga mat strap can also help support the spine, neck, and shoulders by distributing the weight of the mat evenly across your body as you carry it from place to place.
In addition, a good strap system can be adjustable allowing you to customize your own length and configuration. A good quality strap can withstand stretching and bending without breaking and can be easily secured using either trip clips or hook-and-loop fasteners. It’s important when purchasing a yoga strap that you find a model that fits comfortably on your body so that you have maximum mobility when carrying or storing your manduka mat.