17 Creative and Practical Ways to Repurpose Old Yoga Mats
Give your old yoga mats a meaningful second life with these eco-friendly and practical repurposing ideas.
Yoga mats are designed to provide comfort, traction, and support during practice. But after years of sun salutations and downward dogs, even the best mats will start to wear out, lose grip, or show their age. Instead of sending your old mats to a landfill—especially when many are made from non-recyclable PVC—consider giving them a new life with these inventive, practical, and environmentally friendly repurposing ideas. Not only will this reduce waste, but it can also save money and help your community.
Why Repurpose an Old Yoga Mat?
- Reduces landfill waste: Many mats are made of materials that don’t easily break down.
- Saves resources: Extending the life of existing items delays the need to buy new products.
- Offers practical solutions: Old mats can be transformed into useful everyday items for your home, pets, or creativity.
Before You Begin: Cleaning Your Old Yoga Mat
It’s important to give your mat a good clean, especially if it will be used indoors or by others. Here’s a safe way to refresh your old mat before repurposing:
- Soak: Immerse the mat in warm water with mild soap or dish detergent for at least 30 minutes.
- Scrub: For deep stains or odors, scrub with a 3:1 solution of water and vinegar.
- Rinse: Thoroughly rinse off all soap.
- Dry: Press out excess water and hang to dry completely before use.
1. Donate to Animal Shelters
Animal shelters can use old yoga mats as soft bedding or lining for crates and kennels. This helps animals feel more at home during their stay and provides easy-to-clean comfort for rescue staff. Call ahead to confirm your local shelter’s policies and needs before dropping off mats.
2. Gift to a Yoga Beginner or Local Studio
New yoga students or community centers may welcome gently used mats. Offering a mat can encourage someone’s interest in yoga and help local studios make classes accessible to all. Some studios also collect mats for outreach programs or to lend to newcomers.
3. Knee Pads for Gardening and Housework
Cutting your mat into small rectangular or oval sections creates perfect knee pads for garden work, cleaning, or home repairs. The cushioning protects your joints when kneeling on hard surfaces and can be easily hosed off when dirty.
4. Shelf Liners
Yoga mat material provides a non-slip, moisture-resistant liner for kitchen drawers, cupboards, and bookshelves. Simply measure and cut to size for custom-fit protection that helps dishes, utensils, and fragile items stay put.
5. Camping and Outdoor Cushioning
An old yoga mat is a camper’s best friend:
- Place outside the tent to keep dirt and mud out.
- Lay under a sleeping bag for extra insulation and comfort on rocky ground.
- Use as a picnic blanket or beach mat.
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6. Car Heat Blocker or Dashboard Protector
Protect your car from summer heat by laying a repurposed yoga mat over the dashboard and steering wheel to block sunlight. This prevents overheating and fading, and cushions items placed on the dashboard.
7. DIY Mouse Pad
Cut a section of your old mat to create a durable, grippy mouse pad. The soft surface is wrist-friendly and works on most desks.
8. Homemade Insoles
Custom-cut the mat to fit inside shoes or boots for comfortable, cushioned insoles. The foam reduces impact and can revitalize older footwear. Use a template or trace your foot for a perfect fit.
9. Artists and Crafters’ Aid
Donate old yoga mats to local art studios or schools, where they can be used for:
- Knee cushions for muralists or sculptors working on the floor.
- Table covers to protect from paint, glue, and other spills.
- Material for mixed-media projects, puppetry, or other creative crafts.
10. Child Safety and Play Areas
Yoga mats are ideal for softening hard floors in children’s playrooms or creating a safe landing zone under home climbing gyms. Custom-cut pieces can be arranged across play spaces and cleaned easily.
11. Cover Sharp Edges on Furniture
Wrap strips of a yoga mat around table edges or corners to create padding and prevent bumps—especially helpful where toddlers or small children are playing.
12. Pet Accessories: Bedding & Feeding Mats
- Pet bed liner: Place cut pieces inside crates or carriers for extra comfort during trips.
- Food mat: Use a section under pet dishes to contain spills and make cleanup easier.
13. Picnic and Outdoor Mats
Your old mat becomes a clean, cushioned spot on grass, sand, or rough ground. Take it to the park, the beach, or even as additional seating during outdoor concerts. Unlike blankets, yoga mats resist moisture and dirt, and wipe clean easily.
14. Planning and Project Boards
Yoga mats provide an ideal surface for pinning project notes, photos, or inspiration boards. Attach the mat to a wall or large board and use push pins or tape to keep you organized. Their texture holds items securely without damage.
15. Plant and Flowerpot Trays
Place cut pieces under plants, flowerpots, or vases to prevent water marks, leaks, and scratches on floors and furniture. Mats also add grip to prevent sliding.
16. Furniture Foot Pads
Protect your floors from scratches or scuffs by cutting small rounds or squares to place under chair, table, or sofa legs. This low-cost solution helps keep hardwood and tile floors looking new.
17. More Quick Ideas
- Jar Openers: The grippy material easily twists off tight lids.
- Shoe Mat at Door: Keeps mud and grit from tracking into the house.
- Drying Mat: Use as a dish-drying pad under racks or next to the sink.
- Coffee Mug Sleeves: Cut and sew into reusable coffee sleeves.
- Puzzle Saver: Roll up puzzles-in-progress on a mat to save your progress.
- Wine Stopper: Roll and fit a piece for a DIY cork alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are all yoga mats recyclable?
A: No, most conventional yoga mats (especially those made from PVC) are not recyclable through typical curbside programs. Some specialty companies or recycling centers may accept certain brands or types—always check local guidelines.
Q: Can old yoga mats be cleaned in the washing machine?
A: Most mats today are machine-washable on a gentle, cold cycle. However, always consult the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damage, especially with older or thicker mats.
Q: Is it safe to use repurposed yoga mats for food-related items?
A: For direct food contact, ensure the mat is thoroughly cleaned and consider using only mats made from non-toxic, phthalate-free materials. Otherwise, use as a base under dishes or as a picnic mat rather than cutting boards or serving surfaces.
Q: Where else can I donate my old mat?
A: Try local schools, art centers, shelters, or charitable organizations looking for supplies. Some yoga brands or boutiques offer take-back programs for responsible disposal or donation—search your area for options.
Q: What is the best way to cut a yoga mat cleanly?
A: Use sharp scissors or a utility knife and a metal ruler for straight edges. Mark guidelines beforehand with chalk or masking tape for precision.
Final Thoughts: Mindful Consumption and Responsible Upcycling
While these ideas extend the life of your yoga mat, the most sustainable approach is to use what you already have for as long as possible and only replace items when necessary. Whenever you invest in a new mat, consider eco-friendly materials like natural rubber, cork, or jute, and support brands with transparent recycling programs. By finding creative new uses for your old mat, you help lessen environmental impact and serve your community—a true expression of mindful living both off and on the mat.
References
- https://www.scoriaworld.com/blogs/blog/16-creative-ways-to-reuse-or-upcycle-your-old-yoga-mat
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oA8cTN7YNYA
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pul3ZdRlrls
- https://www.gaiam.com/blogs/discover/50-ways-to-reuse-your-yoga-or-fitness-mat
- https://liforme.com/pages/repurpose-your-old-yoga-mat
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