25 Ways to Recycle Your Old Yoga Mat
Don’t Toss It! Repurpose It: 25 Ways to Recycle Your Old Yoga Mat
Yoga mats wear down. The grip fades, the cushioning thins, and after years of practice, it’s time to move on. But that doesn’t mean your old mat belongs in the trash.
Most yoga mats aren’t recyclable through curbside programs, but they are reusable in tons of creative, useful ways.
Here’s a full list of ideas to give your old mat a second life.
At Home:
1. Shelf liner: Cut to size and place in cabinets or drawers for grip and padding.
2. Pet food mat: Keeps bowls from sliding and catches messes.
3. Kneeling pad for gardening: Cushions your knees during outdoor work.
4. Rug gripper: Place under rugs to keep them from slipping.
5. Boot tray liner: Easy to wipe clean and protects your floors.
6. Dish-drying mat: Place near the sink for an absorbent, non-slip drying station.
7. Tool drawer liner: Great for keeping tools from shifting in storage.
8. Laptop rest or mouse pad: Cut to fit your desk setup.
For Pets:
9. Pet bed liner: Add under blankets or inside crates for extra cushion.
10. Cat scratching mat: Not all cats will use it, but many like the texture.
11. Litter box mat: Catch litter before it spreads across the floor.
12. Pet stairs grip: Cut and attach to pet stairs for traction.
For Yoga & Fitness:
13. Cut for knee/wrist padding: Bring a square to class for extra cushion.
14. Outdoor mat for hiking or beach: Use as a ground cover or seat.
15. Under exercise equipment: Protect floors from weights or machines.
16. Use in kids’ play spaces: Soft enough for play, easy to clean.
On the Go:
17. Trunk liner: Keeps the back of your car clean and reduces sliding.
18. Bike basket pad: Line your basket so items don’t rattle.
19. Camping cushion: Use under a sleeping bag for extra insulation.
20. Seat protector for wet swimsuits or muddy clothes: Toss on the seat after outdoor adventures.
For Crafts and DIY:
21. Coasters or trivets: Cut into shapes for heat-resistant pads.
22. Stamps for paint or clay: Press shapes into projects.
23. Protective surface for messy crafts: Paint, glue, or sculpt without damaging tables.
24. Make a yoga mat strap: Braid or sew old pieces together.
25. Donate to schools, shelters, YMCA’s, or animal rescues: Many gladly accept mats for repurposed use.
Bonus Tip! 💡 Cut to size for a jar gripper for easily twisting off lids.
Final Thoughts
Your yoga mat has been with you through a lot! Sweat, stillness, and everything in between. Instead of tossing it, consider one of these simple ways to reuse it. You’ll cut down on waste and give your old mat a second life.
Have a creative idea we missed? Tell us next time you stop by Emerald Yoga Studio. And if you’re ready for a fresh start, we’ve got you covered with new mats from Manduka, Jade Yoga, and even eco-friendly cork options.