With gyms getting shut down during the pandemic, many people reverted to building an at-home workout space to remain consistent with their fitness goals. When it comes to gym equipment, cleanliness and upkeep are just as important as putting in the physical work. Did you know that weights have 263 times more bacteria than a toilet seat? That’s why it’s important to keep up your cleaning routine alongside your fitness regime. Below we include tips on how you can start cleaning and caring for your at-home gym equipment.

3 Step Cleaning Routine for At-Home Gym Equipment

Here’s an overview of a cleaning schedule for your workout essentials:

1. Wash your equipment daily with a simple soap and water solution to clean daily dust and dirt build up.

2. Sanitize and spray down your equipment after each workout to reduce the spread of bacteria and germs.

3. Disinfect your equipment monthly with strong solutions for a deep clean that eliminates germs.

How to Clean Your Gym Equipment

Every piece of fitness equipment deserves its own TLC. Here’s how to clean germs and bacteria off of different pieces of gear.

Cardio Equipment

Cardio equipment includes stationary bikes, treadmills, stair masters and any other equipment you usually use to get your heart rate pumping. Follow the steps below to ensure you’re putting safety first:

1. Unplug the machine.

2. Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water.

3. Dip a cloth into the soapy water and towel wash all of the non-electrical services including the areas that get the most love—the pedals and seats!

4. Dry the washed areas with a second, clean cloth.

5. Finish the cleaning routine by wiping down all surfaces with a disinfecting wipe or solution and let it air dry.

Our shoes and workout clothing can also carry germs, so make sure you’re cleaning them often to avoid spreading the germs onto your clean equipment.

Strength Training Equipment

Strength training equipment includes gear like weights, dumbbells and resistance bands. Here’s a simple 4-step cleaning routine to implement into your strength training regime:

1. Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water.

2. Dip a microfiber cloth into the mixture and wipe down the equipment.

3. Dry the weights with a separate microfiber towel.

4. Finish off by wiping them down with the disinfectant solution or wipe and let them air dry.

For more tips on how to clean different at-home gym equipment along with a DIY cleaning recipe, check out the infographic created by adidas below. Happy cleaning!