Science shows that synthetic yoga mats present a chemical exposure concern through three overlapping pathways: shedding of microplastic particles, emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and leaching of plastic-associated chemicals such as phthalates and bisphenols. PVC-based mats are of particular concern due to their broad VOC emissions and additive load. Heat, friction, and sweat amplify these emissions, making hot yoga a plausibly higher-risk context.
This is MEDIUM PRIORITY because yoga-mat-specific emissions data have not yet been published, and most individual exposures in comparable products fall below current regulatory limits. However, major uncertainties remain around chronic, low-dose, multi-chemical exposure, particularly during hot yoga where elevated temperatures and heavy breathing increase uptake.
Laurel recommends yoga mats made primarily from natural materials like organic cotton, cork, jute, or natural rubber, which avoid the additive-rich plastic layers associated with microplastic shedding and VOC off-gassing.
Laurel avoids yoga mats made from PVC or other synthetic plastics, especially for hot yoga use.
Tip: If you practice hot yoga, prioritizing a natural material mat is especially important, and make sure your studio has adequate ventilation.
Science showssynthetic yoga mats present a chemical exposure concern through three overlapping pathways: shedding of microplastic particles, emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and leaching of plastic-associated chemicals such as phthalates and bisphenols. PVC-based mats are of particular concern due to their broad VOC emissions and additive load. Heat, friction, and sweat amplify these emissions, making hot yoga a plausibly higher-risk context.
Laurel recommends yoga mats made primarily from natural materials like organic cotton, cork, jute, or natural rubber, which avoid the additive-rich plastic layers associated with microplastic shedding and VOC off-gassing.
Laurel avoids yoga mats made from PVC or other synthetic plastics, especially for hot yoga use.
Tip: If you practice hot yoga, prioritizing a natural material mat is especially important, and make sure your studio has adequate ventilation.