IN combat sports like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, and MMA, close contact means mat hygiene isn’t just about keeping things clean off the mats—it’s vital for preventing skin infections like ringworm, staph, and mat herpes on the mats. Proper care is what keeps our mats safe, sanitary, and performing like new for years to come.
Before applying any liquid cleaners, clear away the loose debris. Dust, hair, and grit act like sandpaper under pressure. Over time, grinding this debris into the textured PVC surface can degrade the material and ruin the non-slip grip. Use a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum with a soft brush attachment. Avoid harsh plastic vacuum heads that could scratch the PVC surface.
It is tempting to grab the strongest chemical you can find to kill germs, but never use bleach on your mats. Bleach is highly corrosive; it breaks down the PVC tarpaulin layer, dries it out, causes cracking, and will fade that sharp Core Series blue, black, or grey finish.
Doesn’t get much more exciting than this does it? How you apply the cleaner matters. You want a damp surface, not a flooded one.
For Home Kits: A microfibre cloth or a flat microfibre spray mop works best. Microfiber traps dirt instead of just pushing it around.
The Method: Wipe down the entire surface, ensuring you get into the subtle leather-grain texture where sweat and bacteria like to hide.
Leave the mat flat until it is completely dry to the touch. Once dry, use the included Velcro storage straps to secure it neatly.
This is the most critical step for roll-out mat longevity. The XPE foam under-layer is moisture-resistant, but if you roll your mats up while the PVC surface or the edges are still damp, you trap that moisture inside. Dark, damp, rolled-up environments are a breeding ground for mold and mildew.
Clean immediately after use: Don’t let sweat sit on the mat overnight. The longer it sits, the harder it is to sanitize effectively.
Personal Hygiene: The best way to keep mats clean is to step onto them clean. Keep footwear off the mats, trim your nails, and shower immediately after training.
Your Roll-Out Mat brings the elite dojo experience directly to your home. By spending just five minutes cleaning it after your session, you protect your skin, maintain your grip, and protect your investment.
Well done for making it to the end of this article!
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Here’s how to clean roll out mats. Whether you are drilling double-legs to downward dog, practicing your BJJ flow, flowing through a yoga sequence, or getting some extra home reps in on your roll-out mats, there is one opponent you cannot afford to ignore: bacteria.
