Most people prefer practicing yoga in the comfort of their homes, but practicing yoga on the carpet can be difficult. It can cause friction burns or make it difficult to hold a pose due to a lack of support. A good yoga mat can help solve this problem by providing a firm and stable surface for you to practice on. But how to choose a yoga mat that doesn’t ruin your carpet? Read this article to find out.
Top Yoga Mats that Are Carpet Safe
Here are our top picks that can help you with your decision:
Gaiam Yoga Mat
This yoga mat from Gaiam is light on the pocket and is also lightweight. Due to its high-quality grasp on a carpet, you can stretch as far as possible while maintaining the proper alignment. The 6P-free PVC material makes it toxin-free while being thicker in size.
The mat is available in various artistic designs and colors, to make it look beautiful on the carpet. Also, the textured and sticky surface of the mat makes it anti-slip. So, you can stay motivated at your practice without worrying about sliding on this eco-friendly mat. The only downside of this mat is that it has a chemical smell.
Liforme Original Yoga Mat
This Liforme yoga mat is a little expensive, but for good reasons. This is the best yoga mat if you are into hot yoga. This is because the upper part of the mat is made of polyurethane that absorbs sweat excellently. Due to this absorbing power, the underside remains dry and provides exceptional grip on the carpet. However, it works just as well for Vinyasa yoga or Iyengar yoga.
The second great thing about this yoga mat is its lines that are drawn on the surface. These function as alignment markings designed to help you with your asanas. It will help you stay centered while flowing from one pose to another.
Heathyoga Yoga Mat
This fabulous yoga mat by Heathyoga is thick and cushions your joints perfectly. This makes holding a challenging posture longer without hurting yourself. Also, it is made up of a chemical-free and eco-friendly material known as TPE.
Not only does it provide an excellent grip, but it is also tear-resistant, thanks to its additional middle-mesh layer. The two-sided diamond texture surfaces make it slip-resistant. Also, it’s easy to transport, thanks to its compact bag and carry straps.
Manduka PROlite Yoga Mat
What makes this Manduka yoga mat unique is its closed-cell surface. As opposed to the regular open-cell mats, this yoga mat doesn’t collect any germs. This makes them very simple to clean and hygienic. You just need to wash it down with water and let it dry.
Overall, the performance of this yoga mat is excellent. It doesn’t shift around while you hold a pose and provides the ideal cushioning. Its high-quality thick material doesn’t curl at the ends. Just wash it thoroughly before using it for the first time to clean the dust layer caught during manufacturing.
What to Look for in a Carpet-Friendly Yoga Mat?
When shopping for a yoga mat, it’s essential to remember that not all mats are created equal. Just because a mat is marketed as “yoga” doesn’t mean it’s the best option for your practice.
In fact, there are a few things you should look for when choosing a yoga mat to place on top of the carpet:
Thickness
A yoga mat that is too thin may cause you to feel the carpet beneath you, which can be distracting and uncomfortable. Conversely, a mat that is too thick can make the balancing poses more challenging. Ideally, you want a mat that is around 1/8-inch thick.
Stickiness
If your mat is too slippery, you may constantly adjust your hands and feet during your practice. Look for a mat with a good grip, so you can focus on your poses and not worry about slipping.
Material
Most yoga mats are made from PVC or rubber. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to look for a mat that is made from natural materials such as jute or cotton. However, if cushioning is your principal issue, then go for yoga mats that are made of Polymer Environmental Resin (PER) or Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE)
Textured on Both Sides
Some yoga mats are only textured on one side, which can cause them to move around on the carpet. To avoid this, look for a mat with a textured surface on both sides.
Cleaning
Since you’ll be using your mat on top of the carpet, choosing one that is easy to clean is essential. Look for a mat that can be wiped down with a damp cloth or can be machine-washed.
Conclusion
The best yoga mat for you is the one that meets your needs and preferences. Take the time to shop around and find the perfect mat for your practice. With a little effort, you’re sure to find the best yoga mat that is suitable on top of a carpet.
