Manduka debuts new-to-the-market yoga mat wash and eco-responsible yoga bolsters

LOS ANGELES (September 9, 2009) — Manduka, the world’s leader in high performance yoga gear, announced today the introduction of two new products to their lineup—a line of organic yoga mat washes including the first wash on the market formulated for natural rubber mats, and eco-friendly Yoga Bolsters made with a luxurious microfiber washable cover and airCORE Technology. The most recent release in Manduka’s decade of making premium products for the yoga community, the organic mat wash line satisfies customer demand for earth-friendly, chemical free cleaners, while the new yoga bolsters provide ultimate lightweight, durable support during your yoga practice.

Available in two different formulas, Mat Renew and Mat Restore, and four different scents including Energizing Gingergrass, Soothing Citrus, Calming Floral and Revitalizing Pine, the new yoga mat washes provide users with a non-chemical cleaning solution to keep yoga mats clean, disinfected and smelling fresh. Made with citric acid to neutralize hard water, positively charged cationic surfactants to attract dirt, and essential oils with anti-microbial and therapeutic properties, the new mat washes are unlike any other in the yoga community.

Mat Renew, an all purpose yoga mat cleaner recommended for use on Manduka’s ever popular PRO Line, is available in both a 2 oz and 8 oz spray, as well as a 32 oz refill bottle. Radiant, warm, earthy and made with essential oils including Geranium Rose, Clary Sage and Gingergrass, the Energizing Gingergrass scent helps to reduce stress and energize the mind. Made to emotionally uplift, reduce tension and anxiety, the Soothing Citrus scent is sweet and floral containing Bergamot, Frankincense and Patchouli essential oils.

Mat Restore, the first wash on the market made specifically for natural rubber yoga mats, has the addition of vinegar to Mat Renew’s ingredient list—designed to both clean and disinfect naturally while restoring color and texture. Recommended on Manduka’s completely biodegradable eKO Line, Mat Restore is also presented in both 2 oz spray, 8 oz spray and 32 oz refill bottle. Available in a Calming Floral scent—containing Ylang Ylang and Tea Tree Lemon-scented essential oils to reduce tension as well as Revitalizing Pine containing Silver Fir, Gingergrass and Lavender essential oils to emotionally vitalize, Mat Restore is the most natural and efficient wash created to extend mat longevity.

“At Manduka, we are committed to providing innovative yoga products that are both effective and good for the planet, “ said Manduka CEO, Sky Meltzer. “We are excited to introduce two new mat washes to the yoga community. Biodegradable, phosphate free, anti-bacterial and containing no alcohol or other drying ingredient, the new mat washes are the perfect way to preserve and keep yoga mats fresh and clean.”

Manduka’s new yoga bolsters, made with superlight airCORE technology, offer maximum firmness and support without the common problem of a heavy weight. At only 4.5 lbs compared to the norm of 7 lbs, Manduka’s new bolsters are unlike any other—made with luxurious microfiber, quality constructed and made in the United States. In line with Manduka’s mission to use eco-friendly materials, the lightweight core of the yoga bolsters is a proprietary construction comprised of recycled PET and 100% cotton. The ultra soft microfiber cover is removable and machine washable while the invisible zipper creates a virtually seamless smooth finish. With convenience always in mind, the new yoga bolsters include a durable side strap for easy handling.

“For years we have provided the yoga community with a variety of gear to help improve their practice,” said Manduka Founder and Product Engineer, Peter Sterios. “We were determined to create a bolster that was both resilient and lightweight, unlike most that are heavy and lose their shape. What we came up with was a high quality, durable, eco-friendly result aiming to provide ultimate comfort and support for the user.”

The new yoga bolsters will come in 5 different colors including Kale (green), Glacier (light blue), Sunset (Pink), Thunder (dark grey) and Dune (tan).

To find out more about Manduka and for purchasing information, please visit: www.manduka.com

About Manduka

Founded in 1997 by architect turned yogi Peter Sterios, Manduka was built on the simple idea that a better yoga mat can make a world of difference. Manduka strives to support and enrich the yoga community by providing premium quality mats and products while respecting employees, customers, materials, and the environment. Created for and by yoga enthusiasts, Manduka’s technical and purpose-driven product designs meet and often exceed the distinct needs of all practitioners. Today Manduka’s products, which include yoga mats, towels, yoga straps, water bottles, and bags, are sold in more than 35 countries around the world. Not only focusing on superior design, Manduka also promotes their ethos of quality, thoughtfulness and sustainability in all realms of their business.

# # #