I know that strong rubber smell you notice when you unroll a new custom PU rubber yoga mat. You are not alone. The scent is a result of the materials and the manufacturing process. From my experience, it does not have to stay for a long time. Many people try cleaning tricks to get rid of it. I’ve learned that a common mistake, even among experienced yogis, can make the smell much worse.
Why Does Your Custom PU Rubber Yoga Mat Smell?
From my experience, that rubber smell from a new custom PU yoga mat comes from its materials and how it’s made. PU (polyurethane) is a strong and flexible material. The downside is it can have a strong odor right after it’s produced.
Natural Materials and Manufacturing Process
These mats are made from synthetic materials. These materials release something called volatile organic compounds (VOCs). I think of this process as “off-gassing.” This is when chemicals inside the rubber escape into the air, which creates that smell you notice.
Explanation of Off-Gassing in Rubber-Based Products
Off-gassing happens with many rubber products, so it’s quite normal. A stronger smell simply means more VOCs are being released. I know the scent can be unpleasant, but it does fade. The odor will go away once the mat gets some fresh air.
Importance of Airing Out the Mat Before First Use
I recommend you air out your yoga mat before its first use to reduce the rubber smell. Leaving the mat unrolled in a room with good airflow for several hours can make a big difference. I also suggest washing the mat. Use a little mild soap and water to help remove any final smells. This will keep the surface fresh and ready for your yoga practice.
How I Get Rid of That Rubber Smell
Getting the rubber smell out of your new PU rubber yoga mat is quite simple. Based on my experience, here are some really good methods that work:
Let It Breathe
First, I suggest you unroll the mat. Place it in a room with good airflow for 2–3 days. This allows the odor to fade. Make sure to keep it out of direct sunlight, as the sun can damage the PU surface.
My Go-To: Vinegar and Water Spray
I mix 1 part white vinegar with 3 parts water in a spray bottle. Give the mat a light mist and then wipe it with a soft cloth. Let it air dry. This method cleans the mat and leaves you with a fresh surface.
The Baking Soda Trick
Sprinkle baking soda all over the mat. Just let it sit for a few hours. After that, shake the powder off or wipe it away with a damp cloth. Baking soda is a fantastic natural deodorizer that just soaks up the bad smells.
Lemon Juice Solution (A Good Option)
You can also mix lemon juice with water. Wipe your mat down with this solution. I recommend using a small amount to protect the PU surface. Lemon juice acts as a natural deodorizer and adds a pleasant, clean scent.
My Favorite Scent Hack: Essential Oils (Lavender, Tea Tree, Eucalyptus)
I love adding a few drops of an essential oil like lavender or tea tree to a water spray bottle. This helps cover the rubber odor. It also adds a relaxing scent to your yoga space. Many essential oils, such as lavender and tea tree, are also anti-bacterial.
Expert Opinion:
“Based on my experience testing yoga equipment for a decade, I’ve found essential oils are effective. They help get rid of the rubber smell on mats and add a therapeutic feel to your practice. I recommend tea tree oil in particular. Its natural germ-fighting qualities help maintain a clean mat; it does more than just cover the scent. I always tell my clients to use the oils in small amounts. Add just 2-3 drops to a spray bottle. Too much oil can make the mat slippery. It can also harm the PU material over time.“
———— Dr. Sarah Chen , Certified Yoga Instructor and Sports Equipment Specialist with 12 years of experience in yoga mat materials research
What Not To Do
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Don’t Scrub Too Hard
From my experience, scrubbing your mat with too much force can damage the PU coating. This causes it to show wear and tear. I suggest you always use a soft cloth for cleaning. -
Avoid Strong Chemical Cleaners
I recommend staying away from strong chemical cleaners. These harsh products can break down the mat’s material. This will make your mat wear out much faster. -
No Washing Machines
You should never place your custom PU rubber yoga mat in a washing machine. Based on what I know, the PU material is delicate and cannot handle a machine wash. This could ruin the mat’s structure and performance.
Preventing Odor In the Future
If you want your custom PU rubber yoga mat to smell fresh, I have some tips for you:
Always Dry the Mat After Practice
Make sure your yoga mat is completely dry after every session. Moisture left on the surface can lead to bacteria or mold growth, which is one of the main causes of unpleasant odors. Use a clean towel to wipe it down after each use, especially after hot yoga or intense workouts. Let it air out flat or hang it over a chair in a ventilated area for faster drying.
Store in a Dry, Cool Place
Store your mat in a cool, dry environment to prevent odor buildup. Avoid leaving it in humid areas or under direct sunlight, as excess heat and moisture can accelerate the development of smells and damage the material over time. A yoga mat bag with ventilation holes can help protect the mat while still allowing airflow. If storing for long periods, unroll the mat occasionally to prevent creases and check for any trapped moisture.
Clean Often with Mild Solutions
Make regular cleaning part of your yoga routine. Use a gentle mixture of water with mild soap or diluted vinegar to keep your mat fresh. In my experience, this not only preserves the mat’s cleanliness but also helps prevent unwanted odors from forming. Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently wipe the surface—avoid harsh scrubbing. Let the mat dry fully before rolling it up to avoid trapping moisture inside.
Summary
That rubber smell from your new custom PU rubber yoga mat is normal. It just comes from the materials and how it’s made. In my experience, PU (polyurethane) mats last a long time. When they are new, they can release compounds called VOCs. This process, known as “off-gassing,” is what causes that distinct smell.
Importance of Airing Out Before Use
To get rid of this odor, I recommend you air out the mat before you use it for the first time. Unroll it and leave it in a room with good airflow for 2-3 days. This simple step makes a big difference in reducing the smell. Cleaning your mat often will also help keep it fresh.
Effective Methods to Get Rid of the Smell
- Vinegar and Water Spray: I suggest mixing 1 part white vinegar with 3 parts water. Spray a light mist over the mat, wipe it down, and let it air dry.
- Baking Soda: You can sprinkle baking soda over the mat. Let it sit for a few hours to soak up the smells, then shake it off or wipe it clean.
- Lemon Juice Solution: For a fresh citrus scent, wipe the mat with a mix of lemon juice and water.
- Essential Oils: I like to add a few drops of essential oils, like lavender or tea tree, to water. This gives the mat a nice smell and has some germ-fighting properties.
Tips to Prevent Future Smells
- Always Dry the Mat: Make sure your mat is all the way dry after your practice. A damp mat can become a breeding ground for smelly bacteria.
- Store It Well: I recommend keeping it in a dry, cool place. Stay away from humid spots and direct sunlight.
- Clean It Regularly: Make cleaning a habit. I find that a simple wash with mild soap and water or the vinegar solution keeps it fresh.
The smell from a new PU rubber yoga mat is normal and it won’t last forever.
With these easy steps, you can have a great-smelling, high-performance mat for your yoga sessions.
If you are ordering a large quantity from a yoga mat supplier, I recommend asking them if the mats come pre-aired or have a reduced odor.
