How to Roll and Store Your Extra Large Yoga Mat
By Extra Large Yoga Mats, Thick Exercise Mats & Hot Yoga | Published: 2026-10-17
Category: How-to Guides
Learn the correct way to roll and store your extra large yoga mat to prevent damage, maintain grip, and extend its life. Step-by-step instructions included.
Quick answer
Always roll your extra large yoga mat from the top end, with the textured side facing out, and store it upright in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. For natural rubber mats, avoid tight rolling and never fold them.
Why proper rolling and storage matter
An extra large yoga mat is an investment in your practice. Rolling it incorrectly or storing it in a hot car can cause permanent creases, peeling, or a loss of grip. Natural rubber mats, in particular, are sensitive to heat and moisture. A few simple habits will keep your mat flat, grippy, and ready for your next session.
Step-by-step rolling and storage guide
- Step 1: Clean and dry the mat: Wipe down your mat with a gentle yoga mat cleaner or a damp cloth after each use. Let it air dry completely before rolling. A damp mat rolled up can develop mildew and odor. Checkpoint: The mat should feel dry to the touch all over before you proceed.
- Step 2: Lay the mat flat on a clean surface: Place the mat on a clean floor or rug with the textured (grip) side facing up. Smooth out any wrinkles or air bubbles with your hands. Common mistake: Rolling a mat that has debris underneath can cause bumps and uneven wear.
- Step 3: Roll from the top end, not the bottom: Starting at the short end that was near your head during practice, roll the mat tightly toward the opposite end. This follows the natural direction of the mat's grain and reduces stress on the material. Checkpoint: Keep the roll as tight and even as possible to avoid loose spots.
- Step 4: Secure with a strap or tie: Use the included yoga strap (like the one that comes with the Natural Rubber XL Yoga Mat) to hold the roll together. Place the strap around the middle of the roll, not near the ends, to keep it evenly compressed. Common mistake: Using a strap that is too tight can dent the mat over time. Snug is fine; crushing is not.
- Step 5: Store upright in a cool, dry place: Stand the rolled mat upright in a closet or corner away from radiators, windows, and humid bathrooms. Avoid laying it flat on the floor where it can collect dust or be stepped on. Checkpoint: If storing for more than a week, unroll the mat occasionally to let it breathe and maintain its shape.
Products that make storage easier
- Natural Rubber Extra Large Yoga Mat with Strap: Natural Rubber XL Yoga Mat with Strap includes a strap for secure rolling and easy carrying. The strap keeps the roll tight and prevents the mat from unrolling during storage, which helps maintain its shape and prevents dirt from getting on the surface.
