The rubber yoga mats are probably the most eco-friendly you can find on the market. Most yoga mats are made from PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), and from both an environmental and health standpoint, PVC is the most toxic plastic. To make the mats soft and … Then, we will compare them based on material, price, durability, and performance. Most yoga mats are manufactured in Asia and are made of polyvinyl chloride, or PVC. and Many mainstream yoga mats are made from PVC, polyvinyl chloride, which is basically vinyl. Barefoot Yoga Original Eco Yoga Mat. If you are looking for a non-toxic mat that is also kind to the environment, you will not go wrong with this. The surface is textured and … PER (Polymer Environmental Resin) Similar to PVC but made without phthalates, a chemical softener associated … the blocks? PVC materials like yoga mats are made using toxic chemicals such as lead and phthalates. However, certain types have negatively affected reproduction in laboratory animals, reports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Practicing yoga is a crucial component of my healthy routine. When we use a PVC mat, we can be exposed to these phthalates … I'm Irina Webb, the trusted non-toxic consumer product researcher. This is what a PVC yoga mat generally looks like see this picture below. 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. Terms of Use As consumers, we are exposed to PVC, through inhalation and skin contact. These may still smell a little when you first use them due to natural dyes and the nature of the material. Dimensions: 68 x 24”; 5 mm thick. What exactly TPE is I couldn't tell you. And this non-toxic yoga mat is quite affordable! Learn how your comment data is processed. To break it down nice and simple, you should use a non-toxic yoga mat if you: Have sensitive skin; Suffer from a latex allergy; Want to avoid potentially … Dioxins are a group of toxic chemicals that share a similar chemical structure and induce harm through a similar mechanism. any of the products or services that are advertised on the web site. Nanjing Shenghetai International Trade Co., Ltd. Jiangsu, China View larger video & … Such mats are neither allergic nor release toxic materials for they are free of all the toxins. 99 $29.99 $29.99 Jade Harmony Yoga Mat. Welcome to our Yoga Mat Showdown: TPE vs. PVC vs. Rubber! The R&D for what would be established as Juru Yoga mats two years later, had begun. Order: 200 Pieces. Weight: 4.25 lbs. Exercise and yoga are great for your health, but breathing in toxic fumes from a PVC yoga mat is not. Read More: The 5 Best Eco-Friendly Yoga Mats. Jute on the other hand sprung up from South Eastern Asia where the need for highly resistant yoga mats arose. I recently learned the OEKO-Tex, a European agency that tests products for harmful substances, both legal and illegal to use, certifies PVC. Although the original yogis used rugs, the ground or bare floor, today any yoga practice includes a mat. know or would be interested in finding out. Read more, here. 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. Read More: Do You Need to Use a Yoga Mat? (Poly-Vinyl Chloride) Sticky surface. TOPLUS Yoga Mat. Cork yoga mats are a new yoga trend on the rise. Andrea Boldt has been in the fitness industry for more than 20 years. PVC Yoga Mats. And yes, I take into the considering transportation toxicity. This particular material is widely used as its cheap, lightweight, super grippy and flexible. PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is a synthetic resin used to make everything from packaging to pipes. These materials will still provide padding while reducing your exposure to harmful chemicals. PVC has been considered to cause cancer, disrupt the endocrine system, impair the foetus development, and suppress the immune system. When they aren’t made from PVC, yoga mats are often made from rubber. Today I purchased a yoga mat without knowing what PVC was and how harmful it is. Many yoga mat brands use vinyl, or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) to make the foamy structure supportive and flexible. 2. Plasticizers are then added to make it soft and flexible. However, the standard does not look into whether the production and disposal of PVC are toxic to the environment. Not only that, but dioxins are a byproduct of PVC yoga mats. Thus, I do not recommend PVC yoga mats even if they are certified by OEKO-Tex. It’s horrific that these companies get away with this. One specific phthalate, DEHP, or diethylhexyl phtalate_,_ is a suspected carcinogen. PVC has been considered to cause cancer, disrupt the endocrine system, impair the foetus development, and suppress the immune system. It is not ideal but better than putting vinyl in landfill or burning it releasing dioxins in the area. (*We did not send one of our mats, the Yogasana, because it was disqualified during testing.) Just thought I’d take a shot and ask, thinking you might PVC isn't just in yoga mats. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. But PVC is also one of the most toxic types of plastic to human health and the environment. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0058K5IIQ/ref=ask_ql_qh_dp_hza, Hi, Jenny: Why? Without further ado, let’s check out what goes on behind the curtains with these three yoga mat types! Since you already got them, you might want to call the manufacturer to find out how they are made and tested for toxins. Simran Sethi Journalist and educator writes "The majority of yoga mats are manufactured in Taiwan and made of polyvinyl chloride. However, rubber can be made from recycled materials and /or cut with numerous chemicals, (see more details below), so you want to be sure to purchase a yoga mat from 100% I also found a mat made with natural rubber and jute by Yoga Accessories. (I know I don’t want to be sliding around during my poses.) Hi Hannah, you are right about the fact that BPA is not the only toxin in plastic. 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. Phthalates are considered safe, according to many governing scientific bodies in the U.S. and around the world, but that's when you're exposure is at "typical" levels. Toxic for humans and the environment and unfortunately many yoga mats are 100% PVC. Yes, the mat will keep you from slipping and falling — but it contains chemicals that may linger in your system for years. And standard yoga mats are toxic, to you and/or the environment, because of the material used to make them.. For a long time PVC was the main material used for yoga mats. Most toxic yoga mats are those which are made of PVC or polyvinyl chloride. The mat releases toxic chemicals when being manufactured, or when you burn it (maybe accidentally with a dryer machine). They’re harmful to humans and harmful to the environment. However, because of how it’s made, it’s free of most of the chemicals that are harmful. (I know I don’t want to be sliding around during my poses.) 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. and All I look forward to detoxing my home! Dioxins have been classified as a … with mat, blocks, etc. 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. Hi Irina, thanks so much for this blog! It comes with a drawstring strap bag to store and carry your yoga mat anywhere. To limit your PVC exposure and support chemical-free mats, opt for those made from natural rubber. What … 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. Thanks so much for any feedback!! The reason it says eco PVC is that this is a type of PVC made without phthalates, which is a huge step forwards. easy to wash, resists the growth of bacteria, has a good grip and cushioning and has a long life. Find the best price online. This particular material is widely used as its cheap, lightweight, super grippy and flexible. You have saved me so much time and have taught me so much. First, this is really weird, as I was just looking for a Yoga Kit I want to Thank You for what you do, supplying “us” with We are exposed to the gas that PVC yoga mats emit. PVC is the common material used for yoga mats because it’s cheap, it has grip and it’s flexible. PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is a synthetic resin used to make everything from packaging to pipes. My conclusion is that the Barefoot original eco mat may be the most natural and non-toxic. It is cheap. Thank you! As a matter of fact, there is evidence that BPA-free plastic is as toxic as its BPA-containing relatives. There are also less expensive synthetic yoga mats made from Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) and Polymer Environmental Resin (PER). Please let me know what you think and what you find out. They are persistent (they do not break down easily in the environment) and bioaccumulative (they build up in our bodies). Even if you are knowledgeable about PVC and have made the decision to avoid it, sometimes it is not easy. please see my finding here. Kind: Mat; Material: PVC; Color: Customized; Age: Unlimited; Gender: Unlimited; Packing: Standard Carton Box; Suppliers with verified business licenses. And I am so happy with it. I already have this baby-friendly mat and am thinking of buying another but am more conscious now about PVC and vinyl. The majority of yoga mats are manufactured in Taiwan and made of poly-vinyl chloride, or PVC. Many mats that are free from harmful materials and dyes contain natural rubber, which can be pretty stinky at first. PVC yoga mats are dangerous for a number of reasons. I'm so glad you're here! Material: All-natural jute … I'm on a mission to help you make informed and practical decisions about products you buy. The outgassing you smell from a new mat are actually phthalates. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Hi there! (Don’t machine dry!) PVC is used to make many products, not just yoga mats. PVC starts out as a really hard material, but becomes flexible when phthalates are added during production. Add to that the energy involved in shipping the raw materials (petroleum) around the world and shipping the mat to you, and an organic cotton mat made and shipped from India, or a natural rubber mat from Taiwan, … I think those are good reasons to avoid PVC yoga mats. Your email address will not be published. From my experience natural rubber lasts longer than 1 year as long as you do not expose it to direct light too much. I bought a yoga mat from amazon it is natural tree rubber yoga mat, as a new yoga person, I don’t know what type of yoga mat is the best. Non-PVC 2. ~Irina. PVC yoga mats are hands down the worst for the environment. 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). Gaiam Jute Yoga Mat. The cork for these particular mats is grown in the Mediterranean and is the outer bark of the Cork Oak Tree. Budget-friendly. Yoga mats are made from different materials and one of the most common yoga mats are made from PVC. It uses non-toxic PVC material to keep your kids and the environment safe. According to Thinksport, TPE is "free of BPA, PVC, Lead, Phthalates, Dioxins, and biologically toxic chemicals." The mat is the right amount of thickness, even for me, and I always need extra cushion. ~Irina. After having experienced the benefits of yoga, I do not know how I had survived without it before. It’s possible that through inhalation and skin contact that your body will absorb the toxic substances in the mat. PVC is a petroleum-based material that makes your mat spongy, grippy, and easy to clean. Like many chemicals, PVC leaves a heavy footprint on the environment. And the toxicity cost of moving a mat from Asia to the USA is the same. PVC is inexpensive and offers great gripping properties to mats. The mat is made of 100% PVC but company says that the PVC they use is “eco friendly” which has undergone and met rigorous EU and US standards for safety. However, despite the low price point, using PVC is not … The main ingredient in PVC is vinyl chloride, which is a known human carcinogen. This 4.8 density Jade Harmony yoga mat is timeless and a joy to practice … When they aren’t made from PVC, yoga mats are often made from rubber. However, rubber can be made from recycled materials and /or cut with numerous chemicals, (see more details below), so you want to be sure to purchase a yoga mat from 100% natural rubber. Custom Pattern Printed Eco Friendly Non Toxic Mat for Fitness Training PVC Exercise Yoga Mat. I think both these types are made of EVA foam though I’m not very sure. You can see there are over 2,000 reviews and everyone seems to love it. 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. What’s this? The LIVESTRONG Foundation and LIVESTRONG.COM do not endorse Also, how about Bottom line for yoga mats is that there are several alternative materials on the market. 4.6 out of 5 stars 3,135. 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. Get it as soon as Tue, Jan 5. “The first product we developed was a blend of jute and rubber. From natural rubber to cork, non-toxic yoga mats are … Why Standard Yoga Mats Are Toxic. They are on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s list of priority pollutants. PVC is plastic and the most toxic commercial plastic in mass production. A PVC yoga mat has some pros in comparison to other yoga mats. So while at first it may seem like it’s bad, it’s not TOO bad… We know that PVC is not biodegradable so the only way to get rid of it is to burn it. 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. Chemical Safety Facts: What are Phthalates? Lead and cadmium can have negative effects on your brain, again if exposure is excessive, which is unlikely to happen from just your yoga mat. 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. PVC is a very toxic plastic for our health and for the environment. Plus, you'll get the FREE guide: "5 Powerful Steps to a Non-Toxic Home You Can Take Today! Stay tuned for my research results and let me know what you find out. Rubber is an … Leaf Group Ltd. 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. So indirectly you are helping not to release toxins in environment through its disposal. But, its cons out weight any of … Pharamond Life has received a lot of … It is being phased out, but other phthalates can still pose possible health risks. The concern, however, is that your yoga mat compounds your exposure to all the other products with these contaminants and thus poses a risk. Then my concern: while PVC mats are more toxic than others, they are also more durable. [purchase_link id=”10348″ text=”A GUIDE TO SAFER YOGA MATS” style=”button” color=”blue”], When you join the I Read Labels For You community, you'll receive weekly emails with inspiration, exclusive content and coupons to gain clarity and confidence to create a healthy home. They’re harmful to humans and harmful to the environment. These are thin, eco-friendly, cost-effective, often combined with other yoga mat materials, and also increase traction. All said, there is no replacement to the most naturally available ‘grass’ mat of course. Yikes! Jute on the other hand sprung up from South Eastern Asia where the need for highly resistant yoga mats arose. Copyright © Hi, . As already stated, PVC is mainly plastic material. Whether you’re practicing sun salutations or doing crunches, you’re probably spending a lot of time on your yoga mat. Do you think the kids playmats available in the market are safe or is there some toxic element in them. Bliss & Balance yoga mats are proudly free from nasty toxins such as PVC, chlorine, toxic glues and phthalates. 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). I don’t know what to do, it’s very frustrating. Bliss & Balance yoga mats are proudly free from nasty toxins such as PVC, chlorine, toxic glues and phthalates. The Cork Yoga Mat Available at Yoloha Yoga. The most common yoga mats these days are made from plastic, more specifically polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or vinyl. Pros. Most yoga mats you will find are made of polyvinyl chloride or “vinyl” which are #3 plastic resin code. Some Gaiam yoga mats contain harmful and toxic PVC which has harmful and negative consequences for the factory, the consumer and the environment. The Original Eco Yoga Mat. Now manufacturers are using alternatives, including cork and biodegradable tree rubber. 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). However, PVC has been listed by many organizations as the “most toxic plastic… I splurged on a yeti yoga mat because it was advertised as “pthalate free”, and because it’s from a small company out of Portland I trusted I’m getting something good. Thanks for being there for worried moms like me! If you're not sure about your mat's contents, contact the manufacturer or when you go to purchase one, look for the label "PVC free.". Sounds great, but what does that actually mean? In addition to this, PVC also contains another toxic … An example of such a mat is Affirmats Yoga Mats. I still use it and have no idea what I am going to replace it with down the road. PVC yoga mats are dangerous for you and the environment: There are many chemicals present in PVC, Phthalates are the most controversial one. It's 57 percent chlorine and 43 percent carbon making it extremely durable, spongy and easy to clean, but not so great for the environment. Natural Jute Yoga Mat. As most yogis are unaware, conventional yoga mats are made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC). With PVC yoga mats, you might read that they are free of toxic phthalates, lead, BPA, etc., which does not mean that that the yoga mat is free of PVC. As reported by Yoga Journal, research on other PVC products shows a possibility of polluting chemicals released into the environment during use. It’s possible that through inhalation and skin contact that your body will absorb the toxic substances in the mat. Replies to my comments Texture Of Mats. You can also subscribe without commenting. Also, formamide can present in some EVA foam. Skip to main content.us. or just did their Yoga on grass. Success! A personal trainer, run coach, group fitness instructor and master yoga teacher, she also holds certifications in holistic and fitness nutrition. Phthalates have been linked to birth defects, asthma, neurodevelopmental problems in newborns, fertility issues, obesity, and cancer. ", "I find your knowledge so helpful, to the point and like a gold mine. Rubber is an excellent material for yoga mats. non-toxic information (little play on words there, HA!) 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. More Buying … But, unfortunately, there is no safe way to create, use or destroy these mats. PVC is toxic during every stage of its life cycle. I find your knowledge so helpful, to the point and like a gold mine. Remember my post about the Sealy Soybean mattress? TPE, PVC, and rubber yoga mats are the most popular yoga mat types as of now. There was an error submitting your subscription. Weight: 2 lb. To make the vinyl pliable for practice, it's treated with phthalates, lead and cadmium. The other type is a single large piece with some animated characters made on it. 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. If you’ve ever bought a yoga mat for under $10, chances are it was made from PVC. 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. Upon looking into the composition, it’s made of PVC. Well I read through your article.. And I have couple of points to make. 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). Required fields are marked *. In fact, they are so durable that you need not replace them at all. Ironically enough, this material starts out as PVC - yes the bad yoga mat chemical. Sounds great, but what does that actually mean? Best Non-Toxic Yoga Mats; Buying Guide. The resulting mats have a desirable sticky quality. Chances are, that your yoga mat actually is made of toxic materials that are leaching harmful chemicals. Why Standard Yoga Mats Are Toxic. Jute – Yoga mats made from jute are a cost-effective option and … 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? As already stated, PVC is mainly plastic material. anything but what they had, like hand-woven blankets, etc., You have saved me so much time and have taught me so much.” Toni. ~Irina. Who know what chemicals his mats, made in China, contain. An example of such a mat is Affirmats Yoga Mats. If these are toxic, then what would you suggest would be a safe substitute. When we use PVC yoga mats, we become exposed to the gas that PVC yoga mats emit. Some natural mats are made from woven plant fibers. It’s incredibly toxic to humans and the environment. This natural jute yoga mat made by Ajna is available in three design … The manufacturing of PVC products releases harmful dioxins into the air and water, and additional dioxins may leech into the soil when the discarded products end up in landfills. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. So tough to find a good may with all the false advertising out there!! 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. 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. But having used the rubber mat, blanket n cotton mat, I still found PVC mat to be the best in terms of #grip and #anti-skid texture! But that's what many of us do unwittingly each time we roll out conventional yoga mats, many of which contain polyvinyl chloride, or PVC. Though having a slightly raised pattern, these mats provide an extra grip. Can’t be recylced or biodegraded. Rubber Yoga Mat. These materials are usually added to PVC products to make them have soft and flexible properties. When PVC is burned, the chlorine produces extremely toxic and persistent dioxins that end up in soil, fish, animals, water, air, and ultimately in our bodies. PVC is a very toxic plastic for our health and for the environment. … Try looking for a yoga mat that's 100% made from natural materials like cotton, cork, or natural rubber. In this post, we are going to talk about PVC yoga mats and why it is important to avoid them. LIVESTRONG is a registered trademark of the LIVESTRONG Foundation. Also, dioxins are byproducts of PVC yoga mats’ manufacturing and disposal. The main ingredient in PVC is vinyl chloride, which is a known human carcinogen. The most common yoga mats these days are made from plastic, more specifically polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or vinyl. Releases toxic chemicals & carcinogens in manufacturing process, & if mat is burned or buried. Most yoga mats are made from PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), and from both an environmental and health standpoint, PVC is the most toxic plastic. Thank you for sharing, Greg. Non-toxic….some even said Non-toxic PVC. PVC yoga mats are dangerous for a number of reasons. It is toxic during its manufacture; it is toxic to the end consumers; and it is toxic during its disposal. However, after reading this article I am worried about what to do with my mat. Therefore, it is required that you make the switch from PVC to the natural non-toxic yoga mat. Hello Irina, If you are looking for a non-toxic mat that is also kind to the environment, you will not go wrong with this. You cannot recycle the PVC yoga mat. Not eco-friendly. Turns out, most yoga mats are made from polyvinyl chloride- otherwise known as PVC or vinyl. They are sustainably … A 100% latex is preferable or other non-toxic products like jute or cork. However, it may still contain toxic chemicals such as formamide, a reproductive and developmental toxin. I would love to hear any comments or advice you may have. Production of PVC mats also emits chemicals, including chlorine gas, mercury and vinyl chloride, into the atmosphere. Unfortunately, with time it sheds. PER is actually biodegradable as well, which is a big bonus. Jade Harmony mats cost between £60 and £145 depending on size (choose from 68 or 74 inches), and they are available in a variety of colours including black, pink, blue, green and orange. Yoga mats have long been made with PVC, a highly toxic plastic. Unfortunately, most standard yoga mats are made with it, since PVC lends a desired stickiness and also give with body weight. years ago when there wasn’t any plastic or PVC? 100% natural cork and tree rubber, ultra-grip for sweat, lose the towel , sustainably harvested, for a non-toxic practice, no pvc, per, tpe or harsh chemicals, perfect for hot yoga, gentle yoga, meditation, stretching, naturally anti-microbial eliminating odor. Unfortunately, my fav mat sold by Yoga Accessories has been discontinued. Environmental concerns about PVC are real. Also, I don’t know what’s different PVC VS Rubber. Dioxins are a group of toxic chemicals that share a similar chemical structure and induce harm through a similar mechanism. Most yoga mats are manufactured in Asia and are made of polyvinyl chloride, or PVC. Ajna Eco Organic Yoga Mat. PVC (Polyvinyl chloride) Yoga Mats. Account & Lists ... Manduka Prolite Yoga and Pilates Premium Mat 4.7mm Thick, Non-Slip, Non-Toxic, Eco-Friendly Certified, Long. If your investing in the most appropriately made PVC mat, you need not dispose it off! PVC is popular for yoga mats because it's cheap and effective. Pharamond Life Pro Yoga Mat. Pros: This non-toxic yoga mat is made with a layer of natural rubber and … Apart from sitting and crawling on the playmats, I’ve seen my baby lick the mats sometimes too. It's in kids toys (which may soon change), sex toys, shower curtains, fake Christmas trees, IV bags and more. 2021 Chemical-free. This chemical is a known human carcinogen, and we’re exposed to it through the gas our PVC yoga mats emit. Jute is another great option, but be sure to avoid any mats that mix jute with polymer environmental resin (PER), which contains PVC (1). 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. Unfortunately, like with pretty much everything, if you are not careful you may expose yourself to toxic chemicals – in your yoga mat. What are they made of? I was told that the owner of the company has conned and stolen money from many people through his failed companies in Iowa and Kansas. A better way to gauge the safety of your mat: Check its material. There are tons of PVC-free yoga mat options out there. Then there … Don't subscribe Yoga mats made with vinyl, or polyvinyl chloride (PVC), can contain chemicals like phthalates, which are used to make PVC flexible. These yoga mats sport a wet grip surface… When we use PVC yoga mats, we become exposed to the gas that PVC yoga mats emit. Another good yoga mat for kids is from TOPLUS which offers a reversible design. PVC makes a great mat due to its grip, durability and price point. You can also look for … A PVC mat may run counter to your healthy living intentions. and I saw some that supposedly were Chances are, that your yoga mat actually is made of toxic materials that are leaching harmful chemicals. Other mat options are those made from jute, a natural plant material.