Yoga mats are porous and absorb liquids. When your dog poops, the moisture from the poop seeps through the fibers of the yoga mat and makes its way into your home. The result? A dirty yoga mat! It’s true – leaving a mess around your home will make you messy.
Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to keep your yoga mat looking as clean as possible when your dog pees or has diarrhea. Read on to discover how to clean a yoga mat so that you don’t have to remove it when it’s wet.
Why do dogs like to poop on your yoga mat?
Dogs love to poop on yoga mats. It’s not a big deal to them. They’re used to it. They know that they’re supposed to go where the poop is, and they’re not going to mess with it. If you’re worried about your dog pooping on your yoga mat, you can always put a mat cover over it.
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There are lots of reasons why dogs like to poop on yoga mats. One of the most common reasons is that they like to relieve themselves when they’re stressed out. They may also be trying to relieve themselves in a way that is less messy than when they do it in their normal environment.
Another reason is that they like to smell the mat. If you’ve ever noticed that your dog likes to smell the mat, then you know that they have a strong sense of smell. They may also be trying to mark their territory by pooping on the mat.
5 ways to clean your yoga mat when your dog poops
#1. Don’t hesitate to get a new mat
If your dog soils their bedding, the easiest thing to do is to change the pad. If you can’t change the whole mat, clean the areas where the poop has been deposited. Use a mild, clean cleanser to wipe away the excess material. Wring out the mat and place it in a plastic bag.
Then, take the bag outside and let it air out for 30 minutes. When you come back inside, your mat will be as clean as new! Your dog’s poo will have baked in the warmth and moisture from the air, leaving your mat residue-free.
#2. Put it in the wash
If your dog’s poop is really smelly or concentrated, you may want to put it in the wash. Simply pour a small amount of washing soda in with the liquid in the washing machine and run the machine on normal cycle. Toss in a load of diapers, too – they’re made with similar chemicals and will probably slosh around in there, too. Let the clothes air dry, or run a cycle with max setting on the washing machine.
#3. Don’t use perfumes and oils on your yoga mat
When you first bring your mat home, give it a good clean to remove all the excess oils and dirt. Then, store it in a dry, air-tight location. If you regularly use oils or perfumes, you should probably limit the amount you use on your mat. Your dog’s glands are tuned to smell and if you over-saturate their air with those scents or oils, they might end up smelling your mat!
#4. Dry it with a clean cloth
If your dog’s poop is really smelly or concentrated, you may want to add a little baking soda to clean it up. Mix one tablespoon of baking soda with a cup of water and rub the paste onto the poop-covered mat.
Leave it on for 30 minutes, then rinse off with water. Repeat the process two more times and your dog’s mess will be as fresh as the first time!
#5. Baking Soda – A natural way to remove odor
Baking soda is a known deodorizer and remover. It’s also a good way to neutralize bad smells. If your dog’s poo is dirty or has a strong smell, add a few tablespoons of baking soda to a bowl of water and give it a try.
Your dog’s poo will taste bitter, but that’s natural – when your dog’s skin is blackened with poo, their bodies are trying to get rid of toxins.
Cleaning a yoga mat is a multiple-step process – there are many steps to this daunting task. Fortunately, there are plenty of effective ways to clean a yoga mat when your dog poops. From putting away used mats to safer (and more hygienic) play dates, follow these steps to keep your mat clean and fresh.