The resulting mats have a desirable sticky quality. TPE is a synthetic rubber that is touted as a healthy alternative to PVC. As a new mother I find I’m thinking even more about what products are made of and how my use or consumption of various products affect this new life I’ve created. Yoga Journal: Ask The Expert: Is The “New Yoga Mat” Smell Toxic? Center for Health, Environment and Justice:The Dangers of PVC, PARTNER & LICENSEE OF THE LIVESTRONG FOUNDATION. Pros: This non-toxic yoga mat is made with a layer of natural rubber and … This particular material is widely used as its cheap, lightweight, super grippy and flexible. PVC is a very toxic plastic for our health and for the environment. Thoughts??? I think both these types are made of EVA foam though I’m not very sure. PVC yoga mats are dangerous for you and the environment: There are many chemicals present in PVC, Phthalates are the most controversial one. I’m looking forward to your article on environmentally sound yoga mats. I was glad to learn that there are emerging recycling facilities for PVC (vinyl). Your email address will NEVER be shared or sold. PVC makes a great mat due to its grip, durability and price point. If you are looking for a non-toxic mat that is also kind to the environment, you will not go wrong with this. Then, we will compare them based on material, price, durability, and performance. Other toxic ingredients potentially found in a PVC yoga mat include: Dioxins – A byproduct that consists of a group of toxic chemicals known to be carcinogenic and harmful to our environment. Another good yoga mat for kids is from TOPLUS which offers a reversible design. As consumers, we are exposed to PVC, through inhalation and skin contact. According to Thinksport, TPE is "free of BPA, PVC, Lead, Phthalates, Dioxins, and biologically toxic chemicals." I do not feel comfortable using it knowing it contains toxins, but I would also feel guilty about throwing it away since I know it’s bad for the environment. Hi, Bliss & Balance yoga mats are proudly free from nasty toxins such as PVC, chlorine, toxic glues and phthalates. Fragrances are mixtures of undisclosed ingredients and some of them are linked with increased risk of cancer as detailed in the article by the EWG. ~Irina. This buying guide will help you in choosing the non-toxic mat that is sustainably made and is the right fit for you. Yes, the mat will keep you from slipping and falling — but it contains chemicals that may linger in your system for years. The resulting mats have a desirable sticky quality. Most yoga mats are made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride), also knows as vinyl, the most toxic plastic (recycle code #3). As I never received satisfying answers, I did not add the Sealy mattress to the database of baby products I recommend in my private healthy baby registry consultations. Plasticizers are then added to make it soft and flexible. Although the original yogis used rugs, the ground or bare floor, today any yoga practice includes a mat. Environmental concerns about PVC are real. We know that PVC is not biodegradable so the only way to get rid of it is to burn it. The LIVESTRONG Foundation and LIVESTRONG.COM do not endorse When a manufacturer tells you that their PVC yoga mats are free of phthalates, heavy metals, and chlorine, the question I am always dying to ask is what is used instead Of these toxins. These materials are usually added to PVC products to make them have soft and flexible properties. When right out of the box, it has a smell, a little more than The Original Eco Yoga Mat has, but not as strong as the Jade Harmony yoga mat or a PVC yoga mat would. PVC has been considered to cause cancer, disrupt the endocrine system, impair the foetus development, and suppress the immune system. A personal trainer, run coach, group fitness instructor and master yoga teacher, she also holds certifications in holistic and fitness nutrition. Chemical-free. Here is the link to see if there is one close to your location http://vinylinfo.org/recycling/directory/. If your investing in the most appropriately made PVC mat, you need not dispose it off! Google: “Sunroom design by Ron”, “The amazing patio cover”, “Sunroom escapes ron williams”, and “FUNDRAISING SCAM: Family of Child With Cancer Conned – WHOtv”. Yikes! advertisements are served by third party advertising companies. PVC is plastic and the most toxic commercial plastic in mass production. Why Standard Yoga Mats Are Toxic. Thank you! I'd like to receive the free email course. easy to wash, resists the growth of bacteria, has a good grip and cushioning and has a long life. The most common yoga mats these days are made from plastic, more specifically polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or vinyl. Other mat options are those made from jute, a natural plant material. Unfortunately, with time it sheds. Read more, here. To limit your PVC exposure and support chemical-free mats, opt for those made from natural rubber. The surface is textured and … and I saw some that supposedly were Thank you for this article. Thank you for asking the question. (I know I don’t want to be sliding around during my poses.) years ago when there wasn’t any plastic or PVC? Chemical Safety Facts: What are Phthalates? Non-PVC 2. Ajna. I hate spam, too! I'm on a mission to help you make informed and practical decisions about products you buy. Made with Ultra Dense Cushioning for Stability and Support. 360° Virtual Tour. However, despite the low price point, using PVC is not … What … PVC has been considered to cause cancer, disrupt the endocrine system, impair the foetus development, and suppress the immune system. Releases toxic chemicals & carcinogens in manufacturing process, & if mat is burned or buried. The CDC does recommend more research be done on the effects of phthalates on human health. They’re harmful to humans and harmful to the environment. 4.6 out of 5 stars 3,135. We are exposed to the gas that PVC yoga mats emit. Order: 200 Pieces. If you’ve ever bought a yoga mat for under $10, chances are it was made from PVC. The most common material for yoga mats is PVC (polyvinyl chloride) which if you're not already familiar with it, is a form of plastic that has been made pliable and soft through phthalates and other chemical plasticizers. Before you purchase any yoga mat online, always make sure to look for credentials that vouch for the non-toxic tag. More Buying … Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the LIVESTRONG.COM You can see there are over 2,000 reviews and everyone seems to love it. Would you still trust this product? I requested that no one give the baby plastic toys and have chosen glass bottles for those times when I can’t nurse because as I tell my friends and family: BPA isn’t the only harmful ingredient in plastic. I’m so disappointed and tired of false advertisement. When they aren’t made from PVC, yoga mats are often made from rubber. So while at first it may seem like it’s bad, it’s not TOO bad… So, a PVC yoga mat weighing in at 3 pounds (1.36 kg) has an environmental imprint (for manufacture only) of 23 kg of petrochemicals and minerals, 925 liters of water, and 15.8 kg of air. They have been classified as a human carcinogen. Hi there! Whether you’re practicing sun salutations or doing crunches, you’re probably spending a lot of time on your yoga mat. FREE Shipping by Amazon. So tough to find a good may with all the false advertising out there!! The Ajna Eco Organic Yoga Mat is a non toxic mat that’s made of 100% … These materials will still provide padding while reducing your exposure to harmful chemicals. Most yoga mats are made from PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), and from both an environmental and health standpoint, PVC is the most toxic plastic. I don’t know what to do, it’s very frustrating. So I myself have done tons of research on which mat is in fact the SAFEST. And yes, I take into the considering transportation toxicity. Some natural mats are made from woven plant fibers. A PVC yoga mat has some pros in comparison to other yoga mats. If your mat was fairly inexpensive– think $10 Target special– it’s probably PVC. That new car (or new yoga mat) … I already have this baby-friendly mat and am thinking of buying another but am more conscious now about PVC and vinyl. Also, I don’t know what’s different PVC VS Rubber. Jute is another great option, but be sure to avoid any mats that mix jute with polymer environmental resin (PER), which contains PVC (1). You may end up inhaling potentially harmful chemicals and absorb them through skin contact. Copyright Policy However, because of how it’s made, it’s free of most of the chemicals that are harmful. However, PVC has plenty of downsides to it: it is very environmentally-harmful to produce, has a strong off-gassing smell, and contains plenty of substances that some people consider toxic (like phthalates). And lastly, heavy metals (such as lead) are added to make it more durable. LIVESTRONG is a registered trademark of the LIVESTRONG Foundation. Chances are, that your yoga mat actually is made of toxic materials that are leaching harmful chemicals. Dioxins have been classified as a … So BEWARE! They’re harmful to humans and harmful to the environment. (I know I don’t want to be sliding around during my poses.) These are thin, eco-friendly, cost-effective, often combined with other yoga mat materials, and also increase traction. Jute – Yoga mats made from jute are a cost-effective option and … Rubber is an … PVC requires a lot of water and … If you’ve ever bought a yoga mat for under $10, chances are it was made from PVC. Success! Light-weight. Now manufacturers are using alternatives, including cork and biodegradable tree rubber. We are exposed to the gas that PVC yoga mats emit. First, this is really weird, as I was just looking for a Yoga Kit As most yogis are unaware, conventional yoga mats are made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Best Non-Toxic Yoga Mats; Buying Guide. PER is actually biodegradable as well, which is a big bonus. Pros. PVC itself can be harmful to the environment and its production requires toxic chemicals. and PVC isn't just in yoga mats. Find the best price online. Being a solid alternative to PVC just like foam, these are eco-friendly, non-toxic, durable, slip-resistant, and provide excellent cushioning. However, PVC has been listed by many organizations as the “most toxic plastic… The Cork Yoga Mat Available at Yoloha Yoga. PVC yoga mats are made from PVC resin and anti-tearing fiber made into an open-cell (moisture absorbing) or closed-cell (moisture repelling) foam. However, it may still contain toxic chemicals such as formamide, a reproductive and developmental toxin. These yoga mats sport a wet grip surface… According to studies, Phthalates can be passed from a mother to her unborn child through the placenta and has been found in breast milk, making it a big no-no for yogi moms with newborn babies. If you are looking for a non-toxic mat that is also kind to the environment, you will not go wrong with this. I’m really interested to find out…..maybe “they” didn’t use anything but what they had, like hand-woven blankets, etc., Why: Not only are Chuchka’s eco-friendly yoga mats made from 100 per cent rubber, cork and microfiber suede, but they’re also free from toxic PVC and machine washable, too. PVC materials like yoga mats are made using toxic chemicals such as lead and phthalates. Yoga mats made with vinyl, or polyvinyl chloride (PVC), can contain chemicals like phthalates, which are used to make PVC flexible. PVC is a very toxic plastic for our health and for the environment. The Jade Harmony Yoga Mat is an eco-friendly yoga mat manufactured in the US from natural sustainable rubber, and contains no PVC, synthetic plastics or synthetic rubber. (Poly-Vinyl Chloride) Sticky surface. used as a substitute for professional medical advice, any of the products or services that are advertised on the web site. This particular material is widely used as its cheap, lightweight, super grippy and flexible. You can also look for … He appears to be in it for the money and from the comments from many previous customers of his, he doesn’t seem to have a conscience. PVC is full of toxic ingredients and chemicals, including phthalates, which mimic the body’s hormones and are linked to several cancers, reproductive problems and birth defects. Unfortunately, there is no ideal solution to this. As a matter of fact, there is evidence that BPA-free plastic is as toxic as its BPA-containing relatives. Simran Sethi Journalist and educator writes "The majority of yoga mats are manufactured in Taiwan and made of polyvinyl chloride. PVC is popular for yoga mats because it's cheap and effective. Many mainstream yoga mats are made from PVC, polyvinyl chloride, which is basically vinyl. Rubber is an excellent material for yoga mats. There was an error submitting your subscription. PVC is inexpensive and offers great gripping properties to mats. There are a variety of phthalates used as plasticizers and some of them are so toxic that in 2012 the US government enacted a law to restrict the use of them in children’s toys and some other children’s items (for more info visit here). A PVC mat may run counter to your healthy living intentions. Now manufacturers are using alternatives, including cork and biodegradable tree rubber. The concern, however, is that your yoga mat compounds your exposure to all the other products with these contaminants and thus poses a risk. When we use a PVC mat, we can be exposed to these phthalates … The most common material for yoga mats is PVC (polyvinyl chloride) which if you're not already familiar with it, is a form of plastic that has been made pliable and soft through phthalates and other chemical plasticizers. Like many chemicals, PVC leaves a heavy footprint on the environment. Make an informed decision when you purchase and pay for non-toxic yoga mats. Without further ado, let’s check out what goes on behind the curtains with these three yoga mat types! PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is a synthetic resin used to make everything from packaging to pipes. PVC is toxic during every stage of its life cycle. Some Gaiam yoga mats contain harmful and toxic PVC which has harmful and negative consequences for the factory, the consumer and the environment. Today I purchased a yoga mat without knowing what PVC was and how harmful it is. Try looking for a yoga mat that's 100% made from natural materials like cotton, cork, or natural rubber. I'm Irina Webb, the trusted non-toxic consumer product researcher. However, PVC has been listed by many organizations as the “most toxic plastic” currently in use. 2. TOPLUS Yoga Mat. However, it is best to contact the manufacturer directly to confirm that because I find that some Amazon product descriptions are not always accurate. Although PVCs are cheap, able to provide that strong grip and can withstand pressure for a long time, making them extremely durable, they are also quite toxic and are even referred to as one of the highly toxic plastics out there that is still currently in use by a number of people. It means that apparently there is a new technology to make PVC yoga mats in such a way that it satisfies OEKO-Tex standard limits, which is a step in the right direction. We’re impressed with its lifetime guarantee and bonus downloadable kids yoga class to help your child get started. Barefoot Yoga Original Eco Yoga Mat. Sounds great, but what does that actually mean? PVC yoga mats are made from PVC resin and anti-tearing fiber made into an open-cell (moisture absorbing) or closed-cell (moisture repelling) foam. (*We did not send one of our mats, the Yogasana, because it was disqualified during testing.) A 100% latex is preferable or other non-toxic products like jute or cork. Simran Sethi Journalist and educator writes "The majority of yoga mats are manufactured in Taiwan and made of polyvinyl chloride. I want to Thank You for what you do, supplying “us” with It is made with chlorine and releases toxic chemicals like dioxin in the environment. The mat releases toxic chemicals when being manufactured, or when you burn it (maybe accidentally with a dryer machine). In addition to this, PVC also contains another toxic … You can't recycle it, and when you try to dispose of it through incineration or having it buried in a landfill, it releases dioxin — a cancer-causing chemical. know or would be interested in finding out. We face this problem as individuals and as the humankind – what to do with toxic chemicals we have created and now know that they are toxic. $92.00 $ 92. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. After having experienced the benefits of yoga, I do not know how I had survived without it before. Increasingly, concerns about PVC and the phthalates added to it to make your mat flexible have come to the forefront. Why are PVC yoga mats so dangerous? To make the vinyl pliable for practice, it's treated with phthalates, lead and cadmium. ~Irina. Cork yoga mats are a new yoga trend on the rise. A better way to gauge the safety of your mat: Check its material. Account & Lists ... Manduka Prolite Yoga and Pilates Premium Mat 4.7mm Thick, Non-Slip, Non-Toxic, Eco-Friendly Certified, Long. Exercise and yoga are great for your health, but breathing in toxic fumes from a PVC yoga mat is not. You have saved me so much time and have taught me so much. They are persistent (they do not break down easily in the environment) and bioaccumulative (they build up in our bodies). Hi!! There are 2 kinds I found in shops – one type comes in different pieces which one needs to put together like a jigsaw puzzle and each piece/square has a different color, number or letter on it. 2021 Dimensions: 68 x 24”; 5 mm thick. I think those are good reasons to avoid PVC yoga mats. I would love to hear any comments or advice you may have. The cork for these particular mats is grown in the Mediterranean and is the outer bark of the Cork Oak Tree. When they aren’t made from PVC, yoga mats are often made from rubber. Then there … As already stated, PVC is mainly plastic material. Bliss & Balance yoga mats are proudly free from nasty toxins such as PVC, chlorine, toxic glues and phthalates. One specific phthalate, DEHP, or diethylhexyl phtalate_,_ is a suspected carcinogen. Bottom line for yoga mats is that there are several alternative materials on the market. And I’d like to broaden a little bit the scope: toxicity should be evaluated on the complete life cycle of the product, and it’s then not only about the product, but also the logistic of moving the product from Asia to let say the USA. In fact, they are so durable that you need not replace them at all. So, are we better overall with a PVC mat that will lat 5 years, or eco friendly mats that need to be replaced every 6 or 12 months, and therefore will generate 5 to 10 times more ecological footprint with their logistic? Moreover, PVC in its natural form is not suitable to make products. Though having a slightly raised pattern, these mats provide an extra grip. What was the outcome for suggestions for least toxic yoga mat? It uses non-toxic PVC material to keep your kids and the environment safe. This is what a PVC yoga mat generally looks like see this picture below. But I feel … I was originally looking into the Manduka mats, but after much research I learned they may in fact contain some of that “non metal” PVC. From natural rubber to cork, non-toxic yoga mats are … To make the mats soft and … This is because the chemical used to make PVC, Vinyl chloride, is a known to cause cancer in humans, according to the World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). This is what a PVC yoga mat generally looks like see this picture below. And this non-toxic yoga mat is quite affordable! Welcome to our Yoga Mat Showdown: TPE vs. PVC vs. Rubber! It should not be What was the final outcome? Unfortunately, it is not longer sold. Leaf Group Ltd. This all sounds ideal for the perfect … But when it comes to practicing yoga, exposure comes through inhalation and skin contact. A sticky mat is pretty much a must for yoga, but it's safety is in question. Made of EVA foam everything from packaging to pipes your health and happy... 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Pvc exercise yoga mat is made with Ultra Dense cushioning for Stability and support aren ’ know! Its natural form is not … there are over 2,000 reviews and everyone seems to love it flexible! Or “ vinyl ” which are made of thick cotton fabric, these mats easily retain sweat are. The effects of phthalates on human health have soft and … most toxic types of to! Requires toxic chemicals. your child get started is made of EVA foam run. The bad yoga mat is not ideal but better than putting vinyl in landfill or burning releasing! And for the environment common material used for yoga, exposure comes through and. – yoga mats because it was made from PVC, through inhalation and contact. Or comfort level you are looking to buy is free of most of yoga... Mats easily retain sweat and are made of EVA foam though I ’ m so and!