Malas aren't just stunning jewelry; they're used for personal reflection and setting intentions. Each bead symbolizes a mantra or affirmation that becomes your spiritual companion —and hey, they're not just for prayer and ritual; you can rock them every day, adding a unique flair to your style. Whether you wear them to embody inner peace or to make a fashion statement, Malas keeps you connected to mindfulness and intentionality in your daily life.
So it's essential to care for it to prolong its longevity and sustain its energy. However, the care and maintenance you give your Mala beads differ for each material.
Below are some care and washing methods to use.
How to Care for Mala Beads
It is essential to know the type of material your Mala beads are made from and how to care for them. Caring for your Mala beads prolongs their longevity, energy, and connection, ensuring their physical appearance and spiritual essence are intact.
Here are some of the simple methods by which you can care for your Mala.
Handle Gently
Handling your Mala beads during meditation is the easiest way to care for them. Tugging the Mala beads can make the threads slack and cut off easily.
Avoid wearing your Mala beads when sleeping or participating in physical activities like running. This way, you keep your Mala beads away from moisture like sweat.
Clean
Occasionally, cleaning your Mala beads will help them retain their beauty for an extended period.
While doing this, remember that the cleaning method and procedure vary depending on the material used in making it.
Proper Storage
Properly storing your Mala beads can enhance their durability and make them look more attractive for a longer period.
Not only that, it also helps preserve the spirituality of the Mala beads.
Here are some steps to guide you in properly storing your Mala beads.
- Store your Mala beads in a small bag or pouch, but ensure the bag is breathable.
- Do not hang your Mala beads; they're best placed on your meditation altar after each use.
- Keep your Mala beads away from direct sunlight and dust.
- Avoid keeping them in high moisture and humidity.
Tassel Care
A regularly used Mala will have a tassel that is untwisting and loose. To put a well-worn tassel in order, dip it in lukewarm water, carefully smooth it out, or gently comb it and then let it dry.
And if the end of the tassel is ripped, you can trim it using sharp scissors or replace it with a new one if it’s in really bad shape.
Regularly Use Your Mala Necklace
The best way to care for your Mala necklace is to use it regularly in meditation so they don't gather dust.
This way, they become more aligned with your energy and amplify your spiritual journey.
D.I.Y. Care Tips for Mala Beads
Traditionally, Mala beads are made from different materials, ranging from gemstones, crystals, seeds, and bones to wood.
At Be The Light, our Malas are made with authentic AAA-grade semi-precious gemstones. Knowing the different cleaning instructions for your different Mala bead materials is imperative.
That's why I've taken the time to curate the best yet simple methods you can use to clean your Mala.
Here's how you can best maintain and increase the longevity of your Mala necklace.
Caring for Your Gemstone Mala
Gemstones are natural minerals or rocks valued for their beauty and deep spiritual essence. These precious stones are highly durable when properly maintained.
Do the following to clean your gemstones:
- Dip a soft, clean towel or cloth into soapy, room-temperature water made with dishwashing liquid.
- Gently wipe around your gemstones with a damp, clean towel or cloth.
- Pat dry with another dry, clean, soft towel.
- Keep it in a cool, dry place not directly under sunlight to dry completely.
- Store them in your Mala bead pouch or box.
Generally, when cleaning any of these materials, do not use harsh chemicals. A dishwashing liquid is safe and perfect for cleaning thoroughly.
Lastly, one of the things you will notice over time about your Mala beads is that there will be a bit of change.
Stones might shift in color. These changes are normal and beautiful, showing the journey you and your beads have been on.
Energetic Cleaning and Recharging Your Mala Beads
Aside from the physical aspect of caring for your Mala beads, which I have discussed above, there is also a spiritual method you should use to care for your Mala beads. Mala beads are not just about the physical appearance alone.
Different re-energizing practices are essential to occasionally cleanse your Mala beads spiritually.
Doing this helps to maintain their purity and effectiveness.
Here are some of the methods I use to re-energize my Mala beads:
Smudging
Smudging is a popular and effective way to clear negative energy from your Mala beads.
To re-energize your Mala beads, you burn sage, palo santo, or other cleansing herbs, and as the smoke rises, you pass your Mala beads through the smoke.
As the smoke envelops the beads, visualize any unwanted energies dispersing, leaving your Mala recharged and ready for use.
Moonlight Charging
This is a simple method of re-energizing the Mala. In this method, simply place your Mala beads under direct moonlight during a full moon night.
As you do so, set your intention for cleansing, allowing the moon's energy to wash away any lingering negativity.
This is an excellent way to re-energize gemstone Mala.
Laying them on salt
Placing your Mala beads directly on a salt bed, like sea salt or Himalayan salt, can absorb negative energies.
To re-energize your Mala beads by laying them on a salt, you should first use a clean cloth or pouch, place them on the salt, then put them on the cloth.
So, the cloth will help prevent direct contact between the salt and the beads. Afterward, leave your Mala beads on the salt overnight or overnight.
Sound Cleansing
Sound vibrations can also clear stagnant energy from your Mala beads.
Use tools like singing bowls, bells, or even a gentle chime to create soothing sounds.
Pass your Mala through the sound waves, visualizing the vibrations breaking apart any unwanted energy and restoring your beads to their natural state.
Mantra Chanting
Mantra chanting is a popular method to re-energize Mala in Hinduism and Buddhism.
In this method, you chant the mantra associated with the Mala while holding the necklace.
Visualization
Sometimes, a simple visualization can be highly effective.
Hold your Mala beads in your hands, close your eyes, and focus on your intention to cleanse them.
Imagine a bright, pure light surrounding and permeating the beads, pushing out any negative energy and leaving them cleansed and revitalized.
When should you have a professional clean or repair?
If you notice your tassel is badly worn out, your Mala beads suddenly cut, or you have new intentions, you need a new set of Mala beads.
Then it's time to either re-string your Mala beads or purchase a new Mala with a professional and reliable jeweler specializing in quality handcrafted Malas.
Shop with us at Be The Light Malas
Thank you for taking the time to learn about the sacred care of your Mala necklace. At Be The Light, we understand that each Mala is more than just jewelry. It holds significant importance in your spiritual practice, serving as a vessel for your intentions and accompanying you to inner peace and enlightenment.
Shop our collection of hand-made Malas here and choose a Mala that speaks to you. Allow it to become a tool that brings clarity, peace, and purpose. Join our community of beautiful, mindful people and let your spirit shine.
We eagerly await the opportunity to welcome you into our family, where each bead tells a story, and every Mala is a beacon of light and love.
Conclusion
The best way to care for your Mala beads is to use them regularly. Doing this will also help you become more consistent with your meditation practice and aligned with your intentions.
Remember, your Mala is your spiritual companion. Treat it with love, care, and respect!
