Daily Care
After every practice, give your mat a moment before rolling it away. Allow it to air dry completely — even a short session generates warmth and moisture that, if trapped, can affect the surface over time.
To clean, wipe the surface gently with a soft, damp cloth. Water alone is usually sufficient for everyday maintenance. If you prefer a light cleaner, choose something mild and natural — a few drops of gentle soap diluted in water works well. The polyurethane surface is designed to perform with minimal maintenance, responding best to gentle, consistent care rather than occasional deep cleaning.
Avoid harsh chemicals, alcohol-based sprays, or abrasive cleaners. These can break down the PU surface and compromise both the grip and the printed artwork over time.
Deeper Cleaning (When Needed)
For a more thorough clean after an intense practice, prepare a diluted solution of water with a small amount of gentle soap. Apply it lightly with a soft cloth and wipe across the surface in gentle, even strokes. Do not soak the mat, scrub vigorously, or allow water to pool — excess moisture can penetrate the layers and affect the natural rubber base beneath.
After cleaning, lay the mat flat or hang it over a rail and allow it to dry naturally before rolling or storing.
Drying
Always allow your mat to dry fully before storing. Lay it flat or hang it over a rail or bannister in a well-ventilated space. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight or near radiators and heat sources — prolonged heat or sun exposure can affect both the polyurethane surface and the natural rubber base, causing the material to degrade more quickly than normal use would.
If you practice outdoors or in a humid environment, allow a little extra drying time before rolling the mat away.
Rolling & Storage
To protect both the surface and the printed artwork, roll your mat with the practice surface facing outward. This is the natural direction of the roll and helps prevent creasing, surface tension, and premature wear at the edges.
Store your mat in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid folding or creasing it — fold lines can become permanent over time and may affect how the mat lies flat during practice. Correct rolling and thoughtful storage are particularly important in cooler or more humid climates, where the rubber base can be more susceptible to changes in temperature and moisture.
What to Avoid
To keep your mat performing at its best, avoid the following:
Machine washing or tumble drying will damage both the PU surface and the rubber base and will void any care guarantee. Prolonged exposure to moisture — whether from storage when damp or outdoor use in wet conditions — can cause the layers to separate over time. Leaving your mat in a hot car or in direct sunlight accelerates material degradation. Using oils, lotions, or sharp jewellery directly on the surface can affect grip, texture, and appearance — if you practise with body oils or lotions, allow them to absorb fully before beginning.
Natural Wear
Your mat is designed to be used and lived with. Over time, you may notice subtle changes in texture or appearance — particularly in areas of frequent contact such as hands and feet. This is a completely natural part of use and does not affect the mat’s performance or grip.The polyurethane surface may develop a slightly more matte appearance in high-contact zones as it beds in with use. Many practitioners find their mat actually improves with regular practice — the surface becomes familiar, responsive, and uniquely theirs.
A Note on Materials
Root & River mats are made with carefully selected materials: a water-based polyurethane grip surface and a natural rubber base. Both materials are chosen for their performance, durability, and lower environmental impact compared to synthetic alternatives.
Caring for your mat gently and consistently helps extend its life significantly — reducing the need for replacement and the waste that comes with it. A well-cared-for Root & River mat should support your practice for many years.
In Practice
Care does not need to be complicated. A light wipe after practice, thoughtful storage, and attention to drying are enough to keep your mat in excellent condition for the long term.
Treated with intention, your mat will continue to support your practice — quietly and reliably — for years to come.
