Nachhaltige yogamatten: Die besten 11 Yoga Matten ohne PVC und Schadstoffen.

Worried about toxins in your yoga gear? You're not alone. According to the global eco-friendly yoga mat market research, the demand for non-toxic yoga alternatives has grown by 78% over the past three years! I've researched and personally tested the best non-toxic yoga mats to help you practice safely without harmful chemicals.

When I first started practicing yoga, I didn't think much about what my mat was made of. It wasn't until years later, when I began questioning most products in my pursuit of a low-tox lifestyle.

I was surprised to discover that many yoga mats are made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride)—the same plastic used to make plumbing pipes. But isn’t PVC a rigid material, you might wonder. Yes, on its own, PVC wouldn’t work for yoga mats. That's why manufacturers add a bunch of toxic chemicals to soften it and make it flexible.

Some additives include endocrine disruptors like phthalates, heavy metals such as lead, and toxic compounds like organotins. These harmful chemicals have been linked to hormone disruption, fertility issues, memory and concentration problems, hypertension, and even breast cancer! What's particularly worrying is that these toxins can off-gas or leach from your mat, entering your body through inhalation or skin contact during your practice. Over time, a cheap PVC mat can even start peeling and crumbling, leaving behind little flakes of plastic that spread throughout your home.

Luckily, you can find PVC-free mats that are better for your health.

In this guide, you'll discover my top picks for the best non-toxic yoga mats, learn how to identify greenwashed products, understand which materials are truly the safest, and get answers to your most pressing questions about yoga mat safety!

Why Choose Non-Toxic Yoga Mats?

Unfortunately, most of regular yoga mats are made from synthetic materials, hiding a long list of toxic chemicals you’ll never see listed in their product details. For instance, the Center for Environmental Health (CEH) discovered that a popular yoga mat had more than 1,600 times the recommended daily exposure to nitrosamines—compounds that are probable human carcinogens.

In contrast, the best non-toxic yoga mats are crafted from safe, natural materials—including natural rubber, cork, jute, GOTS-certified organic cotton, and hemp—which are significantly less likely to contain harmful additives.

Choosing a non-toxic yoga mat allows you to enjoy your practice without exposure to:

• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) that can trigger respiratory irritation, headaches, and nausea

• Phthalates linked to reproductive harm and hormonal disruption

• Heavy metals such as lead and cadmium associated with cardiovascular and kidney damage

• Flame retardants connected to increased cancer risk and neurological impairment

In short, a healthier yoga mat is PVC-free, non-toxic, and made from natural or truly eco-friendly materials. Now, let’s dive into our top picks that meet these criteria and see which might be the best fit for your practice and needs!

Best Non-Toxic Yoga Mats for a Healthy Practice

"Best"

Scoria | Shop Here*

Yogasana | Shop Here*

Gurus | Shop Here*

Brentwood | Shop Here*

"Better"

prAna | Shop Here*

Jade | Shop Here*

Manduka eKO SuperLite | Shop Here*

Manduka eKO | Shop Here*

Yune Yoga | Shop Here*

Gaiam | Shop Here*

Liforme | Shop Here*

How Do We Choose the Best Non-Toxic Yoga Mats?

When selecting the best yoga mats, I prioritized products I've personally tested, ensuring they deliver exceptional performance, durability, and safety. My evaluation process includes analyzing third-party lab reports, verifying certifications, and testing grip, cushioning, and durability over extended use periods.

My top picks feature non-toxic yoga mats that pass these rigorous safety and quality standards:

• No PVC content

• Free from phthalates, heavy metals, and flame retardants

• Transparent ingredient disclosure from manufacturers

• Third-party certifications where available

• Biodegradable or recyclable end-of-life disposal

"Best" vs "Better"

• "Best" Non-toxic Yoga Mats: These PVC free mats are the safest picks, made entirely from natural or certified organic materials. Several feature GOTS-certified organic cotton demonstrating the highest textile safety standards, or FSC-certified natural rubber ensuring responsible forest management.

• "Better" Non-toxic Yoga Mats: These mats are safe for regular use, though they may incorporate synthetic materials alongside natural ones. While significantly safer than PVC alternatives, they don't achieve the complete purity of mats made exclusively from natural materials.

What are the “Best” Non-Toxic Yoga Mats?

Scoria Cork Yoga Mat – Artistic Eco-Friendly Design*

Best for: Design & Aesthetic

Certifications: FSC

Non-toxic Materials: Natural Cork, Natural Rubber

Thickness, Weight: 4.5 - 6 mm ( 2 kg)

Pricing: $60.00 - $130.00

Why We Like It:

Practicing on a Scoria mat is a delight not just for the body, but for the eyes and heart too. The beautiful designs (from floral motifs to animal inspirations) on the cork surface genuinely spark joy when I unroll the mat. Beyond aesthetics, Scoria mats perform wonderfully. The combination of cork + natural rubber gives a slightly softer feel underfoot than cork+foam mats – the rubber adds a touch of springiness and robust floor grip. In hot yoga sessions, my Scoria mat stays rock solid.

I also appreciate the mat’s medium weight; around 5 pounds, it’s not too heavy to carry to the studio. A big plus, cork is naturally antibacterial and if you forget to clean it once, it never gets funky.

If you love the idea of a cork mat but want one with a bit more cushioning (and gorgeous designs), Scoria is perfect. Beautiful inside and out – just like your yoga practice!

Pros	Cons
Water-based inks	Thin cork layer
Non-slip grip	Heavier than other mats

Shop Scoria here*

Gurus Roots Cork Yoga Mat * - Cork & Natural Tree Rubber Fusion

Best for: Hot Yoga

Certifications: N/A

Natural Materials: Plant-based Cork, Natural Rubber

Thickness: 5 mm

Pricing: $99.99

Why We Like It:

Searching for a non-toxic mat that excels during intense, sweaty workouts? The Gurus Roots Cork yoga mat is specifically designed for hot yoga, ashtanga, vinyasa, and power yoga practices. Made with a natural cork top, this non-toxic yoga mat is inheritly anti-bacterial, odor-resistant, and moisture-wicking. Additionally, the cork top provides a smooth surface that gains grip with moisture. So, the more you sweat, the grippier it gets!

The rubber side has a textured surface that feels super grippy even with dry hands and is slightly softer to the touch than cork. It really feels like I have two high-quality mats in one; versatility is a big win here. The durability so far is excellent – though cork can sometimes show minor cracking if repeatedly folded. So if you look for a non-toxic mat that’s super adaptable, Gurus Roots is ideal. Cork side for when you’re working up a sweat, rubber side for a more classic feel – either way, you get a stable, safe practice

Pros	Cons
Lightweight & portable	Hand wash only
Moisture-wicking	Slippery when dry
Antimicrobial

Shop Gurus here*

Yogasana Organic Yoga Mat - Non-Slip Hand-Woven Foldable*

Best for: Outdoor Practice & Travel

Certifications: N/A

Organic Materials: GOTS Certified Organic Cotton

Dimensions/ Weight: ~5mm, ~ 1 kg

Pricing: $99.00

Why We Like It:

If you prefer the fresh air against your face while you practice, this organic cotton yoga mat will be the perfect base for your flow. Unlike rubber mats, the Yogasana mat settles perfectly on sand and grass. Besides providing stability, this natural yoga mat will make you feel more grounded and connected.

Another thing I like about this mat is that sweat actually enhances the grip instead of making it slip. Plus, you can use it for meditation, picnics, and even as a decorative rug.

Pros	Cons
Machine washable	Slippery on smooth floors
Lightweight & foldable	Texture can be rough
Durable (5+ years)

Shop Yogasana here*

Brentwood Home Organic Non-Slip Yoga Mat *- Organic Cotton & Natural Latex

Best for: Yin Yoga, Kundalini Yoga, Prenatal or Postnatal Yoga, Meditation

Certifications: Global Organic Textile Standard, FSC, Climate Neutral, Certified Vegan by Vegan Action

Organic Materials: GOTS Certified Organic Cotton, Natural Dunlop Latex

Thickness/ Weight: ~ 5 mm ( ~2 kg)

Pricing: $179.00

Why We Like It:

Brentwood offers one of the few GOTS-certified organic yoga mats on the market. This organic cotton yoga mat not only looks good in your living room but keeps your practice entirely toxin-free! But I’ll be clear: for active flows or standing balance work, this mat is not grippy. You can use this mat at home for your gentle morning stretches, yin or kundalini yoga or meditation. This mat is also wonderful for prenatal or postnatal yoga, or for anyone with sensitive joints or injuries, because of its gentleness. Consider this the ultimate healthy yoga bolster-mat combo. Your body will thank you for the pampering!

Pros	Cons
Sweat absorption	Slippery when dry
Durable & biodegradable	Heavy and bulky
Machine washable

Shop Brentwood here*

What are the “Better” Non-Toxic Yoga Mats?

prAna E.C.O Yoga Mat – Verde Large Yoga Mat*

Best for: Tall Practitioners & Extra Space

Certifications: FSC

Non-toxic Materials: Natural Rubber (top layer), Organic Cotton (middle layer), Recycled Rubber (bottom layer)

Dimensions/ Weight: 78" x 26" x 4mm, 3 kg

Pricing: $110.00

Why We Like It:

Struggling to find a yoga mat with enough space to fully stretch? The prAna Verde Large yoga mat is just what you need. This eco-friendly mat offers an extra long and wide size (26"W x 78"L) so you can comfortably move around while you practice. It's actually one of the few non-toxic mats designed with taller yogis in mind, even for those 6 feet and beyond!

Best of all, it’s built for performance too. It's firm enough to support joints, yet not so thick that it affects balance. Additionally, it offers excellent grip to prevent slipping.

Pros	Cons
Durable (5+ years)	Strong odor out of the box
Great cushioning	Too heavy for travel

Why Better? The bottom layer is made of recycled rubber, which may contain harmful chemicals, such as phthalates, but this layer does not come into direct contact with your skin.

Shop prAna here*

Jade Harmony Yoga Mat – Classic Natural Rubber Mat*

Best for: Grip & Durability

Certifications: N/A

Natural Materials: Natural Rubber

Thickness: 3/16"

Pricing: $80.00 - $95.00

Why We Like It:

This natural rubber mat is a great option for those with sensitive joints. Despite its thinness, it provides supportive cushioning and keeps you grounded in balance poses. If you’re looking for the grippiest, most reliable mat that’s also non-toxic, the Jade Harmony is a classic choice. The natural rubber has a noticeable rubber scent initially. But honestly, I prefer that faint tree rubber smell over a blast of chemical odor. After a week or two of airing out, the smell subsided.

It's a great long-term investment too—my Jade yoga mat has been with me for five years and counting!

Pros	Cons
Non-slip surface	Hand wash only
Durable (5+ years)	Not suitable for outdoor use
Firm but cushioned support	Strong rubber smell at first

Why Better? In addition to natural rubber, the brand says their mats contain a proprietary blend of “natural and man-made components.” Although they don’t disclose the specific ingredients, they have confirmed that Jade yoga mats are free of PVC, phthalates, heavy metals, and flame retardants.

Shop Jade Yoga here*

Manduka eKO SuperLite Yoga Mat - Natural Tree Rubber*

Best for: Foldable & Travel Friendly

Certifications: N/A

Non-toxic Materials: Natural Rubber, a small blend of polyester and natural cotton

Thickness: 1.5 mm ( ~1 kg).

Pricing: $52.00

Why We Like It:

At just 2.1 pounds, the Manduka eKO SuperLite yoga mat is perfect to take on the go. But what really sets it apart is how easily it folds, letting you pack it in a suitcase or backpack without creasing! I have been using this mat for a month now, and love the grip and how travel friendly and light this mat is.

You can use this yoga mat on its own while traveling, or place it on top of a thicker mat at the studio, like I do. I’ve struggled to find yoga towels with proper grip for years, but this Manduka mat is the perfect solution and has been a game-changer. It’s thin, yet provides excellent traction, keeping me stable even during sweaty sessions.

Pros	Cons
Excellent grip	Hand wash only
Extremely lightweight	Limited color options
Multi-purpose use	Minimal cushioning

Why Better? The mat contains a small percentage of polyester, which may be a drawback for some.

Shop Manduka here*

Manduka eKO Yoga Mat – High-Performance & PVC-free*

Best for: Stability and durability

Certifications: N/A

Sustainable Materials: Natural Tree Rubber (non-Amazon harvested) that’s 99% latex-free, a small blend of polyester and natural cotton

Thickness: Comes in 4mm and 5mm, about 3 kg (a bit heavy, but ultra-dense and long-lasting)

Pricing: $100.00

Why We Like It:

The Manduka eKO is the workhorse of eco mats. If you need a mat that can take a beating and last for years, this is your guy. High-density rubber provide such a supportive base that I can barely feel the hard floor. I’ve used this Manduka eKO yoga mat multiple times in studio classes and it always makes me feel stable and confident during any yoga class. It has a firm, ultra-grippy surface that gives you stability in each pose. It’s not the best choice for hot yoga though, as it can become a bit slippery when you sweat. Rugged, reliable, and non-toxic – the eKO sets a high bar for eco-conscious yoga mats.

Pros	Cons
Durable (5+ years)	Strong initial smell
Excellent grip	Heavier than other mats
Firm but cushioned support	Slippery when wet

Why Better? The mat is made mostly from natural materials but does include a small percentage of polyester for added strength and durability.

Shop Manduka here*

Gaiam Jute Yoga Mat - Best Value*

Best Affordable Yoga Mat

Certifications: N/A

Sustainable Materials: Jute Fiber with PER Base

Thickness: 5 mm

Pricing: $36.97

Why We Like It:

On a tight budget? You can still keep your practice non-toxic with Gaiam's jute yoga mat. If you’re switching from a PVC mat, this budget-friendly option is a great start toward a healthy practice.

The natural jute fiber surface provides a more grounding, mindful connection compared to synthetic alternatives while remaining accessible for most budgets. Moreover, it's supportive enough without being squishy and offers a decent grip for standing postures. While not as refined as premium natural options, it represents a significant safety improvement over PVC mats.

Pros	Cons
Natural look and feel	Strong odor initially
Good grip	Scratchy texture

Why Better? The base of this yoga mat is made of PER, a non-toxic PVC alternative. While not as natural as cork or cotton, this layer doesn’t touch your skin.

Shop Gaiam here*

Liforme Original Yoga Mat - Non-slip, Warrior-like Grip*

Best for: Superior Traction Control

Certifications: B Corp

Non-toxic Materials: Natural Rubber, Liforme’s Proprietary Eco-polyurethane Top Layer

Thickness: 4.2 mm

Pricing: $164.95

Why We Like It:

Widely considered the gold standard for yoga mat grip, the Liforme Original delivers unparalleled traction in both dry and wet conditions. When it comes to elite performance, nothing beats the Liforme yoga mat. By far the best grip I’ve experienced on a yoga mat, both when dry and sweaty. Every time I use this luxury mat, I can fully concentrate on my posture instead of worrying about slipping. Top choice for a perfect downward dog!

It also provides the right amount of padding without feeling unstable, reducing the strain on your knees and wrists. It also features alignment guides to help with hand and foot placement.

Pros	Cons
Longer & wider	Long time to dry
Exceptional grip	Polyurethane layer
Premium feel & aesthetics

Why Better? This eco-friendly yoga mat contains polyurethane, a synthetic material. According to the brand, independent tests confirm their materials are non-toxic.

Shop Liforme here*

Yune Yoga - Bold Design, Earth-Friendly*

Best for: Print Lovers

Certifications: N/A

Toxin-free Materials: Polymer Environmental Resin (PER)

Thickness: 6 mm

Pricing: $65.00

Why We Like It:

Prefer a yoga mat as bold as your personality? You'll fall for Yune Yoga's vibrant designs, featuring everything from animal prints and nature motifs to abstract art and Native American-inspired patterns.

These toxin free yoga mats are just as functional as they are stylish. They offer excellent grip and stability, even during hot yoga or sweaty workouts. And with 6 mm thickness, they cushion and support your knees, wrists, and back during every pose.

Pros	Cons
Portable and practical	Made from PER
Non-slip even when sweaty	Slight initial smell

Why Better? The mat is made of PER, a synthetic material free of phthalates and heavy metals. A safer PVC alternative, but still not as pure as cork, natural rubber, or organic cotton.

Shop Yune Yoga here*

Those are our top 11 picks for non-toxic yoga mats, each with its own unique strengths. All of them will keep harmful chemicals out of your practice while providing the support and grip you need. The best choice for you ultimately depends on your personal style and priorities – whether it’s maximum grip for hot yoga, extra cushioning for gentle flows, ultra-portability, or the most natural materials possible.

What’s Wrong with Regular Yoga Mats?

The biggest issue with regular yoga mats is their extensive toxic chemical content that poses significant health risks during use.

Since they're crafted from petroleum-based materials and often treated with harsh additives, they continuously off-gas or leach harmful substances that may impact your health over time. Below, you’ll discover the potentially harmful chemicals hiding in regular yoga mats and why you should avoid them.

Harmful Chemicals in Traditional Yoga Mats

Here’s a closer look at the most common toxins hiding in yoga mats:

• Heavy metals - Toxic heavy metals like lead and cadmium are often found in yoga mats made from synthetic rubber or PVC. These harmful substances increase the risk of high blood pressure, cardiovascular problems, kidney damage, fertility issues, and more.

• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) - PVC yoga mats may release VOCs, which may trigger conjunctival irritation, throat discomfort, headache, nausea, allergic skin reactions, and more.

• Organotin compounds - Used to stabilize PVC, these harsh chemicals may harm the liver, reproductive organs, and nervous system.

• Phthalates - Used as plasticizers to make PVC soft and flexible. These endocrine disruptors can cause reproductive harm and trigger skin irritation.

• Flame retardants - Added to reduce the risk of fire. Exposure to these chemicals has been linked to increased cancer risk as well as impaired neurological and reproductive development.

• Azodicarbonamide - This foaming agent is known as the "yoga mat chemical." It has been linked to respiratory symptoms and allergic reactions.

• Nitrosamines - A chemical likely to be carcinogenic, commonly used in rubber production.

Sadly, it’s hard to know if a mat is truly free of these chemicals, as many brands aren’t fully transparent with the ingredients they use. Some have even been called out for making misleading ‘non-toxic’ claims.

What Material to Avoid in Yoga Mats?

High-Risk Materials

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) -The most toxic plastic currently in widespread use, PVC requires numerous chemical additives to achieve flexibility.

Synthetic TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) - While marketed as safer than PVC, TPE remains problematic since it's often an undisclosed blend of synthetic materials. The cheapest forms contain styrene and butadiene polymers, both classified as human carcinogens.

Synthetic Latex - Unlike natural latex, synthetic versions are created through chemical processes using petrochemicals that can emit VOCs and trigger allergic reactions.

EVA Foam (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) - EVA contains chemicals that release volatile organic compounds when exposed to heat or sunlight, potentially affecting indoor air quality and irritating eyes, nose, and throat.

Potentially Safer Synthetics (Still Not Ideal)

Even potentially less harmful synthetic materials like higher-grade TPE and PU (polyurethane) often involve proprietary formulations unique to each manufacturer, making safety assessment difficult without independent testing

How to Shop for Toxin-free Yoga Mats

When selecting the safest yoga mat materials, prioritize these naturally derived options.

Choosing Natural Yoga Mat Materials

• Natural Latex Rubber - Tapped directly from rubber trees (Hevea brasiliensis), natural latex contains no petroleum-based chemicals. Look for mats specifying "natural latex" rather than just "rubber," which could include synthetic versions.

• Cork - Harvested from cork oak bark without harming trees, cork naturally resists bacteria, mold, and odors while providing excellent grip when moist.

• Organic Cotton (GOTS-Certified) - Ensure cotton carries Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certification, which guarantees organic fiber content and restricts harmful chemical processing.

• Jute - This natural fiber offers durability and grip while being completely biodegradable. Jute cultivation requires minimal water and actually improves soil quality.

• Hemp - Naturally antimicrobial and highly durable, hemp mats grow stronger with use while remaining completely biodegradable.

Looking for Certifications

While not all great mats have certifications, it’s a plus if they do. Look for labels like Oeko-Tex 100 (textiles tested free of harmful substances), GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard for cotton), Fair Rubber (ethical, sustainable rubber), or FSC (Forest Stewardship Council for rubber or cork). For example, some top eco mats carry GOTS organic cotton and FSC-certified natural rubber credentials. These certifications can give extra peace of mind about the materials and supply chain.

FAQs

What is the healthiest material for a yoga mat?

The healthiest yoga mat materials are natural, unprocessed options that avoid synthetic chemicals entirely. GOTS-certified organic cotton ranks as the safest choice, followed by natural cork, FSC-certified natural rubber, jute, and hemp. Look for third-party certifications like GOTS or FSC to ensure materials weren't treated with harmful chemicals during processing. Your specific needs (grip, cushioning, portability) may influence the best choice specifically for you.

Do yoga mats have forever chemicals?

While comprehensive testing specifically on yoga mats is limited, recent studies found PFAS "forever chemicals" in 25% of tested activewear and fitness products. Yoga mats treated with water-resistant, stain-resistant, or anti-microbial coatings are most likely to contain PFAS. To avoid PFAS exposure, choose mats made from untreated natural materials like organic cotton, cork, or natural rubber without synthetic coatings.

Which is better, a TPE or a rubber yoga mat?

Natural rubber mats are significantly better than TPE options for both health and environmental reasons. Natural rubber is tapped directly from trees without petroleum-based chemicals, while TPE is a synthetic blend that may contain undisclosed chemical components.

Is cork yoga mat non-toxic?

Yes, cork yoga mats are non-toxic when sourced from reputable manufacturers using natural cork and natural rubber bases. Cork is naturally antimicrobial, antifungal, and resistant to mold and bacteria growth without requiring chemical treatments. Make sure the cork is FSC-certified and the backing uses natural rubber rather than synthetic alternatives like TPE or PVC.