There are a few effective ways to break in your new mat but before you take action it s important to know what kind of mat you have.
How to make a gaiam mat less sticky.
Like new shoes using your mat daily for 1 2 weeks can help break in the material for a less slippery practice.
Make sure you hang your mat and let it dry properly.
Thoroughly wash the mat and rinse in clean water.
While we understand the need for a cheaper beginner mat on the market it s not our first choice for practicing on particularly when compared side by side to some great high end mats or the similarly priced clever yoga better grip.
Condition the cutting mat so your cut outs peel off simply and without tearing or leaving anything behind.
Add an essential oil to the mixture.
Buying a mat spray that contains essential oils or making your own is a great way to clean disinfect and add a nice scent to your mat.
When you make the leap to owning your own yoga mat it can be more than a little disappointing to discover that your so called sticky mat has no traction at all aside from being annoying if you are really slipping on your mat you could hurt yourself.
The gaiam sticky premium mat is a low cost entry level mat.
Use cricut machines to make homemade scrapbooking items stickers and other vinyl and paper products.
Use very little soap.
Of course when you first pull out a fresh new cutting mat it can be so sticky that the paper or cardstock won t even come off.
As manduka put it don t wear it out wear it in chose one side of the mat and mark it if needed to note which side you are breaking in for your practice.
A lot of mats like thin travel mats and sticky mats can actually be machine washed.
Residue can cause the mat to become slippery.
The scents i ve had the best luck with are lemon orange and eucalyptus for energy or lavender and mint for a more relaxing scent.