The past couple of years have seen individuals spending a majority of their time in their homes, attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, many have taken up new interests, rediscovered old abilities, and improved their physical fitness through regular exercise.
As individuals become more physically active, they are also more susceptible to encountering germs and dirt in communal gym facilities. According to Fitrated.com’s investigation of 27 pieces of gym equipment, each one contains an astonishing 1 million germs per square inch, with 90 to 95% of them being detrimental to human health. This is certainly concerning!
In our home gyms, we may not encounter the same level of conditions. However, there is still a significant presence of sweat and microorganisms on our gym equipment and surfaces. For instance, bacteria such as staphylococcus aureus have been known to thrive for up to three days on gym surfaces (Source: https://www.menshealth.com/health/a19519516/how-dirty-is-your-gym-equipment/). Therefore, it is essential to regularly clean and sanitize our home gyms.
Are you committed to keeping your home gym in top shape? Then you know that regular cleaning is key to maintaining your gym equipment’s longevity and ensuring a hygienic workout space. In this article, we will guide you on how to best clean your gym equipment for a safe and enjoyable exercise experience.
Cleaning your home gym equipment not only removes dirt and grime but also helps prevent the buildup of bacteria and viruses. We’ll provide you with step-by-step instructions on the proper cleaning techniques for various types of equipment, from treadmills to weights to yoga mats.
Cleaning supplies and equipment you’ll need for home gym cleaning
When it comes to cleaning, gym equipment and other fitness items require unique care compared to other household surfaces and furniture. It is important to use cleaning products specifically designed for gym equipment to avoid any potential damage caused by using DIY cleaning materials.
You have the option to utilize a variety of products such as mild detergents, shampoo for carpets and upholstery, sprays specifically for cleaning floor mats, and wipes for kitchen surfaces. Some recommended choices are Lysol, Clorox, and Tide.
If you are uncertain about the cleaning product you are using, you can seek advice from cleaning companies such as Cleanrific, listed on [https://cleanrific.com.au/], as we prioritize using eco-friendly and gentle cleaning supplies that effectively clean your home without causing any harm.
To check for effective cleaning agents against SARS-CoV-2, you can also visit the website of the Environmental Protection Agency at https://www.epa.gov/coronavirus/about-list-n-disinfectants-coronavirus-covid-19-0.
Home gym cleaning
After making a decision on which cleaning products to utilize, it is now time to clean our home gym.
Regular cleaning of your home gym equipment is vital for several reasons. First and foremost, it helps maintain the longevity of your equipment. Dirt, sweat, and grime can accumulate over time, leading to wear and tear that can shorten the lifespan of your machines.
Furthermore, cleaning your gym equipment is essential for maintaining a hygienic workout environment. Gym equipment, especially those shared by multiple users, can harbor bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Regular cleaning helps reduce the risk of infections and promotes a healthier workout space for you and your family.
Gym Equipment
To maintain our home gym’s cleanliness, we begin by focusing on the fitness equipment and other items. As different pieces of equipment may have unique cleaning requirements and sensitivities to certain materials, we have outlined specific methods for cleaning each one below.
Before we delve into the cleaning techniques, it’s important to understand the common germs and bacteria that can reside on gym equipment. Studies have shown that gym equipment can harbor various microorganisms, including Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, and influenza viruses.
These pathogens can be transmitted through direct contact with contaminated surfaces or through respiratory droplets left on equipment. It’s essential to be aware of these potential risks and take appropriate measures to minimize their impact.
1. Resistance Bands
Latex, polycarbonate, and synthetic rubber are the materials commonly used for strength training and physical rehabilitation through resistance bands. Due to their frequent exposure to body sweat and dirt, these bands need to be regularly cleaned.
Due to their stretchy nature and composition of materials with low chemical resistance to alcohol-based cleaning solutions, resistance bands present a greater difficulty when it comes to cleaning.
After each use, it is recommended to clean resistance bands by using disinfectant wipes instead of harsh cleaning agents. For a thorough cleaning, immerse the bands in a bath of warm soapy water, scrubbing and swirling them for approximately 30 seconds. Afterwards, rinse the bands and allow them to air-dry.
2. Free weights
One of the main characteristics of free weights is their grippy and textured surfaces, which tend to attract germs and dirt. To effectively clean them, it is recommended to use a disinfecting spray, such as Lysol, in conjunction with a cleaning wipe. It is important to let the weights dry completely before using them again, in order to eliminate any harmful microorganisms.
To effectively remove any dirt build-up on the ridges, simply use a brush and a soapy solution to scrub the material.
3. Gym machines
When cleaning gym machines such as treadmills, it is important to start by unplugging them. From there, the process becomes much simpler as gym machines typically have smooth surfaces. Simply use a disinfectant to wipe down all surfaces after each workout.
Gym Surfaces Cleaning
1. Floors
Ensuring the cleanliness and maintenance of your floors is just as important as having proper gym equipment. After all, you use the floor to perform exercises.
When it comes to cleaning, the type of flooring material plays a crucial role. Certain floors, such as wood and vinyl, are not compatible with moisture. In such cases, dusting and using a gentle floor cleaner would be sufficient.
2. Benches
Following a workout, it is common for us to take a break and sit on the benches. As a result, any sweat and bacteria that we may have brought with us can also be left on the bench. Since benches are typically smooth, it is recommended to use a disinfectant to clean the surface.
Cleaning Frequency
In order to maintain a clean home gym, it is important to make it a daily routine, especially if you use it frequently. Specifically, remember to disinfect commonly used and heavily touched surfaces, such as mats and dumbbells, after each use using wipes.
For thorough cleaning, it is recommended to do it once a month. However, if your home gym lacks proper air flow or easily collects sweat and dirt, it is advisable to schedule deep cleaning more frequently.
Final Thoughts
It is a positive development that individuals are increasingly adopting healthier habits by utilizing home gyms. However, we must not overlook our duty to maintain cleanliness in the gym to safeguard our loved ones from illnesses and maintain the optimal state of our exercise equipment.
Keeping your home gym equipment clean is essential for maintaining its longevity, ensuring a hygienic workout space, and protecting your health. Regular cleaning not only removes dirt and grime but also helps prevent the buildup of bacteria and viruses.
By following the step-by-step cleaning techniques outlined in this article, using recommended cleaning products, and maintaining cleanliness in your gym area, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable exercise experience. Remember to check the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific cleaning instructions and products to avoid.
