How Do You Store a Yoga Mat?
Sep 2, 2026 / Public Storage
Store a yoga mat by cleaning it, drying it fully, rolling it loosely, and placing it in a breathable bag or labeled fitness bin. Keep the mat off the storage-unit floor, away from heavy boxes, and out of direct sunlight.
Roll the mat instead of folding it to reduce deep creases. Store yoga blocks, straps, towels, and other fitness accessories in a separate labeled container nearby.
Yoga Mat Storage Essentials:
- Clean the mat after its final use before storage.
- Let both sides dry fully before rolling.
- Roll the mat loosely from the short end.
- Keep the side that touches the floor facing outward when rolling.
- Use a cotton bag, pillowcase, or breathable fabric cover.
- Avoid airtight plastic covers that can hold moisture.
- Store yoga blocks, straps, and towels in a separate labeled bin.
- Place the mat on shelving or another raised surface.
- Keep heavy boxes and furniture off the mat.
- Check the mat during seasonal gear rotations.
Yoga Mat Storage at a Glance:
How Do You Clean a Yoga Mat Before Storage?
Clean a yoga mat before storage by wiping both sides with a soft cloth and a cleaning method approved by the manufacturer. Focus on areas that receive regular hand and foot contact.
Let the mat air-dry completely before rolling it. Do not put away a damp yoga mat.
Should You Roll or Fold a Yoga Mat for Storage?
Roll a yoga mat instead of folding it. Rolling helps reduce sharp creases that can affect the mat’s shape and make it harder to lay flat during the next session.
Start at the short end and roll the mat loosely. Avoid pulling the roll too tight, especially with foam, rubber, or thicker exercise mats.
How Should You Cover a Yoga Mat in Storage?
Cover a yoga mat with a breathable cotton bag, pillowcase, or fabric cover after it is clean and fully dry. A breathable cover limits dust while allowing airflow around the mat.
Avoid airtight plastic bags or wraps. Non-breathable coverings can hold moisture against the mat and contribute to odors.
Should You Use Climate-Controlled Storage for a Yoga Mat?
Climate-controlled storage can be useful for yoga mats made from rubber, foam, cork, or other materials affected by heat and changing humidity. High heat can soften, stick, fade, or change the texture of some mat materials, while cold temperatures can make certain rubber or foam mats stiff.
More than 90% of Public Storage properties offer climate-controlled units. These units are designed to help maintain more consistent temperature or humidity levels than non-climate-controlled storage.
Clean and dry the mat before storage, roll it loosely, place it in a breathable cover, and keep it on shelving or another raised surface with related fitness gear.
How Should You Store Yoga Blocks, Straps, and Towels?
Store yoga blocks, straps, towels, and other accessories in a separate labeled bin near the yoga mat. Place heavier items, such as blocks, on the bottom and lighter textiles on top.
Use labels such as:
- Yoga Gear
- Yoga Blocks and Straps
- Fitness Towels
- Exercise Accessories
Keeping gear together makes it easier to retrieve everything needed for your next session.
Where Should You Place a Yoga Mat in a Storage Unit?
Place a rolled yoga mat on shelving or another raised surface in a labeled fitness-equipment area. Keep it near the front of the unit if you expect to use it regularly.
Do not place heavy boxes, furniture, weights, or other dense equipment on top of the mat. Leave a clear path so you can retrieve the mat without moving other household items.
How Should You Check a Yoga Mat After Storage?
Check the yoga mat before using it again by unrolling it, inspecting the surface, and wiping away dust. Let the mat rest flat for a few minutes if it has been rolled for an extended period.
Review the manufacturer’s instructions if the mat feels stiff, sticky, or shows material changes before use.
Keep Your Yoga Gear Ready for the Next Session.
A yoga mat is easier to store when it is clean, dry, loosely rolled, and covered with breathable fabric. Keep it with related fitness accessories, place it on a raised surface, and avoid heavy items that can compress the material.
Find a Public Storage location near you to reserve climate-controlled space for yoga mats, exercise gear, seasonal items, and household belongings that do not fit your current layout.
A simple yoga-gear system can make it easier to return to your routine when you are ready.
Yoga Mat Storage FAQs
Can you store a yoga mat in a storage unit?
Yes. Store a yoga mat after cleaning and drying it fully, rolling it loosely, and placing it in a breathable cover or labeled container.
Should you roll or fold a yoga mat?
Roll a yoga mat loosely instead of folding it. Rolling helps reduce sharp creases and makes the mat easier to lay flat later.
How do you keep a yoga mat from smelling in storage?
Clean the mat using the manufacturer’s recommended method and let it dry fully before storage. Use a breathable cover instead of airtight plastic.
Should you use climate-controlled storage for a yoga mat?
Climate-controlled storage can be useful for rubber, foam, and cork yoga mats affected by heat and changing humidity. More than 90% of Public Storage properties offer climate-controlled units.
Where should you store yoga accessories?
Store yoga blocks, straps, towels, and accessories in a separate labeled bin near the mat. Keep heavier items at the bottom of the container.
