5 Steps To Properly Maintain Your Home Gymnastics Mat

Your home gymnastics mat is not any other piece of workout equipment; it’s your landing pad for every flip, stretch, and tumble. It’s a must for any budding gymnast, yoga fan or parent with a bunch of hyperactive kids.

A gymnastics mat cushions your joints, absorbs impact and serves as a place to train hard or unwind.

However, all the sweat, pressure, and daily use can take its toll on your mat. Left uncared for, it can lose its grip, smell musty, or be a safety hazard over time. That’s why giving it proper care is more than just a chore; it’s a way of protecting your investment and your performance.

With that said, here are the essential steps you need to know to maintain your home gymnastics mat properly.

1. Regular Cleaning

A little extra cleaning of your gymnastics mat goes a long way to keep your mat hygienic and working properly.

Clean the surface with a mild soap and warm water solution using a soft cloth or sponge. It’s a way to remove sweat, dust and bacteria that can accumulate over time. Make sure you do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers, as they will damage the vinyl or foam material.

Furthermore, you might want to deep clean your mat once a week if it gets used a lot or if you share it with others.

Always dry the mat completely before storing it to prevent mould and mildew growth.

Disinfectant sprays made for gym equipment can also help keep the surface germ-free. A simple cleaning routine enables you to keep your gymnastics mat for home safe for use, pleasant and long-lasting.

2. Proper Storage

In order to prolong the life of your gymnastics mat, you must store it correctly after each use.

Before putting the mat away, make sure the mat is entirely fresh and dry because doing so while damp would lead to mould, mildew or foul odour. Don’t sit the mat in direct sunlight, as the UV rays will dry out its material and cause it to fade, crack or become brittle.

If your mat is foldable, fold it along its original creases to avoid undue wear or damage. It is advisable not to put heavy objects on top of it when it is stored, which may lead to a permanent indentation or a slight change of shape.

Also, keep it away from sharp tools or edged pieces of furniture that might accidentally pierce it. When you store your mat correctly, you will keep it in good shape, and it will continue to provide you with consistent support and safety any time you use it.

3. Inspect for Damage

It is advisable to examine the condition of your gymnastics mat regularly to make sure it is in good shape.

Don’t ignore a small tear. Either repair it promptly using a vinyl repair kit or a strong adhesive made for gym mats. Damage left untreated can get worse over time, compromising a mat’s cushioning and safety.

Moreover, you should also look underneath for sharp objects, debris, or buildup that could scratch floors or your routines. It is a good habit to check the mat before and after each use, particularly if other household members use it as well.

Proactivity in maintenance helps you avoid injury and makes your mat dependable and comfortable for all workouts.

4. Avoid Shoes and Sharp Objects

A good rule of thumb is to not wear shoes nor bring sharp objects onto its surface.

Outdoor shoes tend to track in dirt, debris, and small rocks, which can scratch or puncture the mat. They also put unnecessary pressure and wear on the material, thus reducing its lifespan. Always use the mat barefoot or with some soft, clean gymnastics slippers.

In addition, when using the mat, you should also remove any jewellery, belts, or clothing with zippers, as these items can easily tear or damage the surface. Ensure the area around the mat is clear. There should not be any tools or anything that could cause accidental damage.

The more careful you are with your mat, the better it will look and function, and you'll be creating a safer training area for yourself and anyone else using it.

5. Air It Out

Airing your gymnastics mat out regularly will help to keep it fresh and free from odours.

Even if you keep cleaning it regularly, sweat and humidity can add up over time (especially if the mat is enclosed or not well-ventilated). Take the mat outside once a week or so for a good airing out, and lay it flat on the ground in a shaded area with good airflow.

You shouldn’t leave it directly in sunlight because prolonged contact with the UV rays will damage the surface material. This allows the mat to breathe and prevents the growth of mildew, bacteria, and unpleasant smells.

If you can’t take it outside, you can even air it indoors near an open window or fan. But make sure both sides of the mat get some ventilation. This simple step will keep your mat smelling clean and fresh and retain its life for all your workouts.

Bottomline

Following these simple but effective maintenance tips, your gymnastics mat will be maintained for years. When you keep the mat clean, store it properly, and inspect it for damage, it ensures the safety and longevity of the mat.

Also, avoid shoes and sharp objects and air it out often to keep your mat fresh and comfortable. When you take care of your mat, it will last longer, and your workouts will be safer each time.

With a little bit of work, you can maintain your mat perfectly for every gymnastics session.