How to make a new yoga mat more sticky?

Question

I just got a new yoga mat. the brand name is tapas. My yoga teaher told me to wash it with shampoo to make it more sticky, less slippery. I did that, but it is still slippery. It is supposed to be a good mat, not cheap. Anyone have any advice on making it less slippery?

Answer 1

Many yoga mats have that slippery coating but eventually wear out from frequent use and frequent washing. Make sure that you don't use moisturizing shampoo, otherwise will get more slippery. Use any soap or detergent that doesn't have conditioners or moisturizers in them in order to strip that coating dry. You might have to wash it more than once (make sure you don't soak the mat too long, otherwise it'll take longer to dry).

Another possible reason why you may be slipping from your mat is that you either have sweaty palms and feet, or that you have applied body lotion on your hands and feet. Make sure you wash your hands and feet and pat them dry before doing yoga to remove any oily or sweaty residue.

But don't worry, that mat will eventually have a good grip. In the meantime, you can either place a towel on top of your mat.

Namaste.

Answer 2

Make Yoga Mat Sticky

Answer 3

I always have problems with my sticky mat because my hands and feet sweat. I've found that the only solution is to use a towel between the mat and my skin. You can buy large mat sized towels specifically designed for it (some of them come with rubber dots on one side to keep it from moving around on the mat), or just a regular hand towel works too.

Answer 4

Yep, that's the right answer. ^^