Gecko Yoga FAQs
Order Questions
Where Does Gecko Ship To?
We currently offer shipping to the following European countries: Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland.
Related Article: Gecko Shipping Policy
Can I Buy Gecko Products Offline?
We currently sell our products at select yoga studios and retreats.
Related Article: Gecko Store Locator
Can I Return My Gecko Products?
We hope you love your Gecko Yoga Products as much as we do. However, if you find that our products are not the right fit for you or there was a mistake on your order, you have the right to a 30 day return with full refund on your Gecko products.
Related Article: Gecko Return Policy
Product Questions
Why Should I Switch To a Cork Yoga Mat?
Cork yoga mats are a sustainable, non-toxic alternative to plastic yoga mats. The cork surface is also naturally non-grip, allowing for better performance.
Related Article: Top 5 Reasons to Switch to a Cork Yoga Mat
Can I Practice With My Cork Yoga Mat Outside?
Yes, you can practice with your cork yoga mat outside on any surface (grass, sand, dirt- you name it!). You may need to clean the bottom afterwards.
What Kind of Yoga Is My Cork Yoga Mat Designed For?
Gecko cork yoga mats are suitable for all expressions of yoga. The “OG” Cork Yoga Mat is non-slip and offers a medium level cushion, making it a good all purpose mat.
Related Article: How to Choose Your Perfect Yoga Mat
How Do I Clean My Cork Yoga Mat?
Cork is naturally antimicrobial and hypoallergenic, but you should still clean your yoga mat on a regular basis. We recommend cleaning your mat with a gentle solution of water and organic tea tree oil. Spray the surface mat with the cleaning solution, wipe down with a reusable cloth, and lay flat to dry. To clean the bottom, simply wipe it down with a damp cloth, and lay flat to dry.
Related Article: How to Clean Your Cork Yoga Mat
How Do I Store My Cork Yoga Mat?
Roll your yoga mat cork side outwards to ensure that the mat lays flat every time. We recommend storing your mat in a cool dry place.
Are Cork Yoga Mats Non-Toxic?
Yes, our cork yoga mats are non-toxic. They are also hypoallergenic, making them safe for use around children and pets.
Related Article: Is Your Yoga Mat Toxic?
Are Trees Cut to Make Cork Yoga Mats?
No trees are cut in the process of making any of our cork products! Cork is harvested by collecting the bark of the cork tree. The trees naturally shed their bark in nine year cycles, and harvesting is an important part of the tree’s life cycle. Our cork yoga blocks in particular are made from the excess and leftover cork that was not used in the making of wine stoppers, ensuring that no cork goes to waste!
Are Gecko Yoga Mats Recyclable?
The cork surface of your mat is biodegradable, and the rubber backing is recyclable.
Related article: What To Do With Old Yoga Mats
What is the Bottom of the Yoga Mat Made From?
The bottom of our mats is made from a rubber material called EPDM. This material is non-toxic, 100% recyclable, and produced in Portugal.
Why Don’t Gecko Mats Use Natural Rubber?
We do not use rubber sourced from rubber trees for four main reasons:
- Allergens: Rubber (Latex) is a very common allergen, and the more you are exposed to it, the more likely you are to develop an allergic reaction.
- Carbon Footprint: Majority of the world’s rubber supply comes from South America or South East Asia, and we want to reduce our carbon footprint by only sourcing as local as possible.
- Fair Labor Concerns: Rubber extraction is very physically demanding, and has been under criticism for unfair labor practices, including child labor.
- Weight: Rubber is very heavy, making the mat more cumbersome to travel with.
What is the Difference Between Gecko Mats and Other Cork Yoga Mats?
Unlike most cork yoga mats, Gecko mats are made in Portugal using 100% Portuguese sourced materials. Our mats have a thick grain surface, which requires less processing of the cork. The EPDM rubber backing also makes our mats much lighter than most.
Why Are Gecko Yoga Mats More Expensive Than Cork Yoga Mats On Amazon?
It is possible to find cheaper cork yoga mats on Amazon, but these are often mass produced overseas. Gecko Cork Yoga Mats are more expensive because of the higher cost of raw materials and labor. We only use local and ethically sourced materials, and partner with small production houses that pair their workers fair wages.
Related Article: Conscious Supply Chain
Why is Portuguese Cork Better than Other Cork?
Portuguese cork is considered the highest quality in all the world due to its superior growth conditions, as well as it’s economic and cultural significance. Additionally, Portuguese cork forests are home to a variety of rare indigenous species, so they are often protected areas. Cork of non-Portuguese origin does not meet the same quality and sustainability standards, and is often mixed with other cheaper materials.
Related Article: Why Premium Portuguese Cork
Partnership Questions
Does Gecko Offer Wholesale Discounts?
Yes, we offer wholesale discounts for yoga studios, retreat venues, and sustainable yoga retailers. For more information, please contact Nicky at hello@geckoyogamats.com or by using the Wholesale Contact form here.
How Can I Collaborate With Gecko?
If you’re a yoga teacher interested in partnering with us or becoming a Gecko ambassador, please contact Nicky at hello@geckoyogamats.com or by using the contact form here.
For additional questions, please feel free to contact us! 🦎