Whether you’ve been using yoga mats for years or are just learning your first downward dog, the right gear can enhance your yoga practice and support your body.
Finding the best yoga essentials starts with what matters to you and your practice. Start by asking yourself some key questions. What style of yoga do you enjoy? Are you more into restorative stretching or intense Ashtanga flows? Will you be practicing at home or commuting to a studio? How important is sustainability to you? This guide covers the mats, props, and accessories that can transform your experience on the mat, wherever it might take you.
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Table of Contents
You’ll Need a Yoga Mat
- Material matters. Most yoga mats are made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), natural rubber, or cork. If you’re after affordability and grip, PVC mats are a tried-and-true option, but they’re not biodegradable and not the most environmentally friendly. Natural rubber, on the other hand, is a sustainable choice with good traction, but steer clear if you have a latex allergy. TPE mats are a bit of a compromise. They’re a hybrid of plastic and rubber polymers, making them lighter than rubber but more flexible than PVC. Cork mats are another natural choice; they’re antimicrobial, eco-conscious, and actually have a grip that improves with sweat. However, they tend to be pricier, heavier, and require extra care to maintain their quality.
- Consider thickness and texture. Different practices will benefit from different thicknesses, but it is also a matter of personal preference. Think about what feels best under your feet, knees, and wrists. Thinner mats keep you closer to the ground, which can increase stability during standing or balanced poses. They’re also naturally lighter and easier to transport. Thicker mats are brilliant for restorative poses and for yogis with sensitive joints. Also, consider the surface texture: If you sweat a lot, you’ll most likely prefer a sticky mat that can help you stay grounded.
- Match your mat to your flow. What type of yoga do you practice? If you practice many flows, you may be looking for a more well-rounded mat. If you’re taking your mat outdoors or doubling it up for pilates, durability is important. You may also want a mat that can endure footwear.
- How often do you practice? If you’re on the mat daily, consider investing in a high-quality option that can stand up to wear and tear. For occasional sessions or beginners, there are more budget-friendly choices that still offer decent comfort and stability.
For more guidance on yoga mats, check out our guide to the Best Yoga Mats Tried and Tested by Experts.
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If you want a well-rounded mat, this Lululemon mat is one to consider. Yes, it’s pricey, but the attention to detail makes it worth the splurge. One standout feature is the antimicrobial additive, which helps fend off mold and mildew. This is great for those who don’t always remember to air out their mats (guilty). It’s also reversible, giving you the option to flip between a smooth polyurethane surface for sweaty sessions and a cushioned rubbery side for slower flows. The 5 millimeter thickness adds just the right amount of padding for your knees during restorative poses.
Note: Since it’s made with a blend of polyurethane, natural rubber, and synthetic rubber, it’s not a good fit for anyone with latex allergies. Also, while the smooth surface feels great, it’s prone to scuffing, so avoid shoes on the mat.
This is my go-to mat for indoor practices, and it has traveled with me everywhere, from Boston winters to Chicago summers. I’m a big fan of this brand made from sustainable rubber with no PVC or synthetic materials and in compliance with US environmental, labor, and consumer protection laws. (Jade also plants a tree for every mat sold.) The grip is stellar, but so is its ability to pick up lint, pet hair, and dust, so you’ll have to wipe it down after every use. It also has a rubbery smell at first, which fades over time but never fully disappears. Weighing just over 3 pounds, it’s super portable, though I wouldn’t recommend it for hot yoga or outdoor practices. Prolonged exposure to heat or sunlight will dry out and damage the rubber, so don’t leave it baking in your car either.
My very first mat, and honestly the best for anyone just starting out or on a budget. It’s lightweight (under 3 pounds), so I could easily tote it to the park or my neighborhood studio. I also used this mat for floor workouts during the quarantine, and because of the affordable price I didn’t feel bad about using shoes. It’s also latex-free, a great option for anyone with sensitive skin or allergies. That said, you’re not getting the most durable mat. My cat managed to poke holes in it during one of her kneading sessions, but at $25, you can’t expect it to be invincible.
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Photograph: Manduka
When it comes to heated practices, the Manduka PROlite is my favorite. The mat is designed to stay put, thanks to its no-slip dot pattern, and it has a closed-cell surface that keeps sweat and moisture from seeping in. Unlike the open-cell construction of the Lululemon and Jade mats, this one doesn’t absorb as much sweat, so it’ll hold up longer. It’s also free of phthalates and latex.
How to Clean Your Yoga Mat
First off, check your mat’s care instructions. Yoga mats aren’t all made from the same materials, so the cleaning process isn’t a one-size-fits-all. In general, make it a habit to wipe down your mat after every practice. Use a gentle mat cleaner and a soft towel, spraying the solution directly onto the towel (never on the mat) to avoid any spotting. Opt for sprays with natural antimicrobial properties (like essential oils); they smell great, too.
About once a month, give open-cell mats a deep clean by soaking them in warm water mixed with a gentle dish soap. After a few minutes, rinse thoroughly and let the mat air dry. If you have a closed-cell mat, skip the full submersion; use a soapy rag to wipe it down instead, and then let it air dry.
I can’t stress this enough—always let your mat dry completely before you roll it up. Rolling up a damp mat is the fastest way to invite mildew and funky odors. Nobody wants that.
Photograph: Liforme
How to Dispose of Your Yoga Mat
When your yoga mat eventually bites the dust, there are a few things to consider before tossing it—unless you have a biodegradable mat, which you can send to the landfill without the guilt. Most mats, though, are crafted from materials like PVC and TPE, which are slow to break down. Some brands, like Jade Yoga, have recycling programs that will take these mats off your hands. You can also reach out to your local recycling center to confirm if they accept your mat.
If you can’t recycle it, repurpose it. Many animal shelters will welcome old mats to line kennels and crates, as long as they’re clean. Just make sure you call ahead to confirm. You can also reuse your mat for outdoor excursions. Use it as padding under your sleeping bag for added insulation while camping. Stash it in your car for impromptu picnics at the park, or use it to stop groceries from sliding around. If you surf, place it between your surfboard and car to prevent dings. The opportunities are endless, really.
Yoga Towels
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Photograph: Amazon
If you’re hitting heated classes as often as I do (three to four times a week), a single yoga mat towel won’t cut it. This affordable microfiber set includes a mat and hand towel, and they’ve become staples in my towel rotation. I love the quality for the price and the mat towel’s corner pockets; it’s a simple feature that makes a huge difference. It stays put even when I’m shifting through lunges and balance poses, so I don’t have to constantly adjust my towel mid-flow. For under $25, this is a solid purchase for anyone who practices regularly.
This is a great towel for hot yoga, pilates, and even weight-lifting sessions. Unlike most hand towels, it’s soft enough on my skin that I don’t feel that scratchy feeling while wiping my face. It’s quick-drying, too, so you’re not lugging around a soggy towel by the end of the session. My only wish is that it was a slightly larger size.
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Photograph: Manduka
The Yogitoes Yoga Mat Towel is a splurge, but it lives up to its reputation. Made from recycled plastic bottles and equipped with silicone nubs on the underside, it keeps you grounded even when your hands and feet start to fall asleep. The unique designs are what you’re really paying for, though, with options ranging from sunset landscapes to animal prints. Choose wisely. Each print adds a certain energy to your practice, and you’ll want a vibe that matches your flow.
Made from polyester microfiber, this Jade towel checks off all the basics. It’s super absorbent, quick-drying, and grippy enough for those more intense flows or even HIIT workouts. Plus, Jade partners with the Water Project. meaning that each towel sold helps provide a day of drinking water to someone in need.
Bags and Slings
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Photograph: Beis
The Beis Sport Carryall is fabulously functional. It’s a total multitasker, with space for your yoga gear, work supplies, and other essentials. There’s a padded laptop sleeve (for up to 15 inches, a water bottle slot, a slit for your yoga mat, and many other extras. I especially love the added key leash and front pockets, so I’m not constantly digging around for my smaller items. It feels stylish enough to carry throughout the day, even after your practice.
If you’re after a no-frills carrier, the Manduka Commuter Mat Carrier fits most (if not all) yoga mats. The padded shoulder strap (made from 100 percent natural cotton) makes it comfortable to carry wherever you’re headed, and I very much appreciate the silent gravity cinch closure.
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Photograph: Alo Yoga
I like the Alo Yoga Mat for those long hauls to the studio. The adjustable strap is plush, and the carabiner hook and top handle are nice touches. There are three zippered pockets, one for your mat and two more for your keys, wallet, phone, etc. The mesh compartments mean you’re not fumbling for your stuff. Maybe that’s just me?
Jade Yoga’s Recycled Sari Yoga Mat Bat is not only beautiful—each one is handmade with recycled cotton from saris by Local Women’s Handicraft (LWH) in Nepal. There are three compartments for your mat, water bottle, and the rest of your essentials. The main pocket’s long zipper makes it easy to slide your mat in and out when you’re rushing out the door, and the 55-inch is adjustable to fit all body types.
Blocks, Straps, and Props
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Photograph: Amazon
If you’re buying only one prop, I highly recommend yoga blocks. At least two will help you maintain balance and practice proper alignment through flows. This Manduka Lean Cork Yoga set is sustainably sourced from renewable cork oak trees and offer top-tier grip for those with sweaty palms. The slimmer width is also ideal for people with smaller frames, on-the-go yogis, or for anyone looking for an extra challenge during balancing asanas.
Two yoga blocks let you set yourself up for success with excellent support in practicing and holding tricky balance postures. They encourage you to practice proper alignment in a variety of moves and stretches, too. With its super-solid construction, slimmer width, and textured surface for easy grip, the Lean Cork Block set improves balance and alignment for an enhanced practice. The set is also sustainably sourced from renewable cork oak trees with zero toxic chemicals.
The Manduka Recycled Wool Blanket isn’t just for Savasana. Fold or roll up for extra support during poses. You can also fold it into a makeshift cushion or wrap it around your body for meditation. It’s soft and stretch-resistant; just make sure to dry-clean only to avoid premature wear.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, this bundle also includes a yoga strap. Yoga straps are great for deepening stretches and improving flexibility.
Whether you’re easing into a backbend or looking to prop up your knees during Svasana for increased blood flow, yoga bolsters offer the proper support to relax. Round bolsters like this one are especially helpful for chest openers, side stretches, and deeper arches without strain. If Sukhasana (sitting cross-legged) or hero’s pose feels tough on your hips, you can place a bolster between your legs for comfort.
Reusable Water Bottles
We’ve spotlighted a few choices below, but you can find more recommendations in our Best Reusable Water Bottles guide.
Photograph: Dick’s Sporting Goods
The Hydro Flask has built a rep with outdoorsy folks, probably because it’s nearly indestructible. This bottle is perfect for yogis who like to take their practice outside; the durability is unmatched, and it keeps drinks cold for hours. It’s a must for someone looking for a bottle that can handle all the bumps and tumbles of an active lifestyle.
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Photograph: Amazon
If plastic is more your vibe, we love the latest Nalgene. Made from BPA-free Tritan and half recycled plastic, it’s a classic with a modern upgrade. Tech director Martin Cizmar appreciates the screw-top lid, the measurement lines, and the wide mouth for easy cleaning.
Photograph: Owala
The hype is real with Owala FreeSip (9/10, WIRED Recommends). It’s insulated, perfect for hot days or hot yoga. What really sets it apart, though, is the dual-function lid: You can either sip through the built-in straw or chug from the spout. Switch up how you drink with your flow (I’m totally kidding).
Other Helpful Gadgets
Photograph: Amazon
Manduka’s lavender-scented refresh spray will have your mat smelling zen. It’s made with essential oils and is pet-friendly. If you’re not a fan of lavender, the brand offers ginger grass and lemongrass fragrances.
Wearing socks during practice is a personal choice. I sometimes prefer being barefoot, but when tackling balancing asanas, I do appreciate the extra stability. Bombas socks excel at maintaining their grip, even on a sweaty mat, which is a definite bonus.
Photograph: Amazon
You obviously don’t need a meditation cushion, but it transforms your practice. The Zafu helps alleviate knee strain, reduce ankle pressure, and improve spinal alignment—making it easier to settle into stillness. Realistically, you could grab any pillow, but if you’re looking to elevate your yoga space, this cushion is a thoughtful addition.
Photograph: Quiet Mind
I have been a proud owner of the Quiet Mind Weighted Pillow for over a year, and I can’t remember my life without it. My daily companion, I’ll place it on my lap when I’m meditating for comfort. It also weighs me down, helping me focus during those quiet moment when the scattered thoughts start to creep in. I don’t have a weighted blanket, but I’ll vouch for this pillow any day.
The Alo Yoga Bend It Yoga Wheel makes stretching feel more accessible. Use it for those tricky backbends and inversions. Roll your spine over it to open up your body, relieve tension, and enhance flexibility in your shoulders and hip flexors. For any beginners hesitant about advanced poses, think of this as training wheel. It also doubles as a prop for legs-up inversions.
