If you go to the gym often, you might not think much about wiping down the equipment. Or maybe you’re the gym user who cringes at others who don’t.
Despite gyms having rules about this, there are some surprising reasons why you should absolutely wipe down weights, machines and mats before and after use.
We spoke with Mindi Rubio, MSN-PHN, an infectious disease specialist with Banner Health, about why sanitizing your gear is so important and what you’ll need to do the job.
Why it’s important to sanitize gym equipment
Gyms are full of people, which means they are also full of germs. When you work out, you sweat and so do others. Sweat and other body fluids can carry germs like bacteria and viruses.
Not everyone is great about washing their hands, which can also contribute to the spread of germs and illnesses. For example, if you touch equipment someone else uses and then touch your face, you might get sick.
“A 2021 study of three separate gyms found that exercise bikes had 39 times more bacteria than a cafeteria tray, free weights had 362 times more bacteria than a toilet seat and treadmills had 74 times more bacteria than a water faucet,” Rubio said.
If the equipment isn’t cleaned properly, germs can spread from person to person. It’s not just the common cold or flu you risk getting — germs can aggravate acne and also lead to infections like:
- Staph infections: Staph bacteria can cause serious skin infections. Some types, like MRSA, are very difficult to treat. Left untreated, they can spread to bone and blood.
- Strep infection: This well-known throat infection spreads through coughs, sneezes or touching things with the bacteria on them.
- Fungal Infections: Fungi that cause athlete’s foot and ringworm are common in places like the gym. They spread in damp areas, like locker rooms or showers.
- Herpes simplex virus: HSV causes cold sores on the lips or painful sores in the genital area. It spreads through direct contact with the sores.
- Molluscum contagiosum: This skin infection spreads easily through touching infected skin, towels or clothes. It causes red, itchy bumps.
Not cleaning your gym equipment can also be bad for it. Sweat, dust, hair and grime can build up, causing the equipment to wear out faster and break down. This can be really upsetting, especially if you spent a pretty penny on your own workout gear.
How to clean your equipment
Just as important as knowing why you need to clean workout equipment is knowing how to do it. It comes down to two steps:
1. Use the right cleaner
Choose a cleaner that kills germs but is safe for your equipment. Most gyms offer premoistened wipes that work well against harmful bacteria and are safe for your equipment. If the gym doesn’t have these, you can ask them to provide cleaning supplies. Gyms should also clean the equipment regularly to help keep everyone safe.
For home gym equipment, read the manufacturer’s instructions for recommended cleaning products. In general, alcohol wipes are safe for most electronics, such as treadmills and indoor bikes. Still, double-check to make sure it’s safe.
2. Wipe down after each use
After you are done, wipe down equipment after every use. Let the equipment dry completely before using it again.
“The best method is first to use one premoistened wipe to cover the equipment, letting it stay wet for the recommended time,” Rubio said. “Then, use a second wipe with friction to wipe off the bacteria.”
Here’s a guide to help you clean your gear effectively:
- Yoga mats: Use a disinfectant spray or wipes. Make sure the mat dries completely before rolling it up to prevent mold.
- Weights and dumbbells: Wipe with disinfectant wipes. Pay extra attention to areas with grips where sweat collects.
- Cardio machines (treadmills, bikes, ellipticals): Clean the screens and handles with wipes.
- Resistance bands: Wipe them down well with wipes and let them dry. If they are your own, wash them in warm, soapy water and let them air dry.
Other tips to stay safe at the gym
Bring your own towel and mat: Use a clean towel and mat at the gym. This can help reduce the spread of germs. If you use towels and mats, wash them regularly with hot water to kill germs.
- Wash your hands: Wash your hands before and after exercising. “Hand hygiene is the single most effective method of preventing the spread of infection,” Rubio said. Proper handwashing requires wetting your hands, lathering soap and scrubbing, rinsing and drying with a clean towel.
- Shower after your workout: If possible, shower right after you work out to wash off any germs.
- Don’t share personal items: Avoid sharing things like water bottles, towels and mats with others.
- Stay home when sick: Be a good citizen. Don’t go to the gym if you aren’t feeling well. “Infectious diseases like colds, flu and gastrointestinal illnesses like norovirus can spread easily,” Rubio said.
- Get vaccinated: For your best defense, get your annual flu and COVID shots. The pneumococcal vaccine is now recommended for people 50 and older. And don’t forget about the RSV vaccine, which is for people 75 and older or those 60 to 74 with high-risk conditions such as heart disease, lung disease or a weakened immune system.
- Wear shower shoes: Skip the gym shower and get ready at home. If you shower at the gym, wear shower shoes to prevent athlete’s foot or ringworm.
Takeaway
Sanitizing gym equipment is simple but very important. Do your part. Help keep yourself and others safe from germs.
Wipe down equipment after use, wash your hands and use your own towel. Get vaccinated and stay home if you are sick. By following these easy steps, you can avoid the buildup of bacteria, fungi, viruses and grime that could harm your health.
