How to Store a Yoga Mat Flat and Clean
By Metta Mats - Yoga Mats Created by Independent Artists | Published: 2026-10-22
Category: Tips & Care
Learn how to store your yoga mat to prevent curling, fading, and dirt buildup. Follow these simple steps to keep your mat flat and clean for longer.
Quick answer
Roll your mat with the printed side out, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and clean it regularly with a gentle solution to prevent curling, fading, and odor.
Why proper storage matters for printed mats
Printed yoga mats like those from Metta Mats are made with vibrant art layers that can fade or peel if stored incorrectly. Heat, humidity, and tight rolling put stress on both the rubber backing and the printed surface. Storing your mat flat or loosely rolled helps preserve the artwork and the grip for years.
A common mistake is rolling the mat too tightly or leaving it in a hot car. Over time, the rubber memory causes the edges to curl, and the printed layer can crack. A few small changes in how you store it make a big difference.
Diagnosis: Is your mat curling, smelling, or fading?
- Symptom: Mat edges curl up during practice: Likely cause: The mat was stored rolled too tightly for long periods, especially with the printed side facing inward. The rubber backing develops a memory in that curled position. Try rolling the mat with the printed side out and store it loosely in a mat bag or hung over a rod. If curling persists, lay it flat under a light object (like a book) for 24 hours.
- Symptom: Mat smells musty or has visible mold: Likely cause: Storing the mat while damp or in a humid, non-breathing space like a sealed plastic bag or gym locker. Moisture gets trapped between the rubber and the surface. Always air-dry the mat completely after cleaning before rolling it. Store it in a breathable cotton bag or a well-ventilated area. If mold appears, clean with a mild vinegar-water solution and dry thoroughly.
- Symptom: Printed design looks faded or worn: Likely cause: Direct sunlight exposure during storage or practice. UV rays break down the ink layer over time, especially on mats with high-contrast art. Store the mat away from windows and direct light. Use a mat bag that blocks UV when traveling. For daily use, keep it in a shaded spot or a closet.
Product facts
- "Galactic Quartz" Yoga Mat: The 'Galactic Quartz' Yoga Mat is 3.5 mm thick and made with a soft rubberized surface that grips wet and dry. Its thin profile makes it prone to curling if stored tightly, so rolling it loosely or laying it flat helps maintain its shape and grip.
"Galactic Quartz" Yoga Mat - "Purple Moonlight" Yoga Mat: The 'Purple Moonlight' Yoga Mat is produced using renewable energy and upcycled materials, with a vibrant printed surface. The eco-friendly materials are durable but the printed layer benefits from avoiding direct sunlight and heat during storage to prevent fading.
"Purple Moonlight" Yoga Mat
