A mala is handled every day, so it changes over time. Bodhi seeds darken, wood takes on a soft sheen, and bone becomes smoother. Most of this is welcome. A few simple habits keep the beads and the cord in good condition for years.
Everyday habits for any mala
- Handle it with clean, dry hands. Hand cream, perfume and sunscreen leave a film on the beads.
- Take it off before showering, swimming, washing dishes or exercising.
- Keep it out of direct sun and away from heaters. Heat and dry air can crack seeds, wood and bone.
- After wearing, wipe it with a soft dry cloth.
Care by material
Bodhi seed
Bodhi seeds are porous. They absorb the natural oil of your hands and slowly turn from pale cream to a warm brown. Wipe them with a dry cloth or brush them gently with a soft brush to lift dust from the surface. Do not soak them. If they get wet, dry them straight away and leave them in the shade.
Sandalwood and other woods
Wooden beads dislike water and soap, which dull the surface and wash out the scent. A dry cloth is enough. The fragrance of sandalwood fades in open air, so keep the mala in a closed pouch or box when you are not using it.
Yak bone
Bone is harder than seed or wood, but it is still a natural material. Wipe it with a soft cloth and keep it away from long contact with water. Bone often yellows slightly with age and handling, and many people value that colour.
Stone, glass and metal parts
Agate, crystal and glass beads can be wiped with a slightly damp cloth and dried at once. Metal counters and spacers may darken over time. A dry polishing cloth brings back the shine if you prefer it bright.
Malas from our collection
Bodhi seed, yak bone and sandalwood malas with 108 beads. See all Tibetan malas.
Storing your mala
Keep it in a cloth pouch or a small box, away from damp. Store each mala separately so harder beads do not scratch softer ones. In Buddhist custom a mala is treated with respect: it is kept in a clean place, off the floor, and often on or near the altar.
When to restring
Check the cord now and then, especially near the guru bead and the knots. If it looks frayed or the beads have become loose, have the mala restrung before the cord breaks. A new cord does not change the beads you have used and cared for.
Looked after in this way, a mala becomes more personal with each year of use.
