Quick and Easy Ways to Keep Your Home Workout Equipment Clean

In a previous article, we've discussed how you can make healthier food choices during the COVID-19 outbreak. Today, we’re showing you how to keep your fitness equipment clean at home.

Before that, let’s find out how long the SARS-CoV-2 survives on various surfaces:

Workout equipment is usually made of plastic and metal. That means for plastic surfaces, the virus survives from 2 to 3 days. On metal, it survives much longer with a duration of 5 days. That’s a solid reason to start sanitizing now.

Here are simple ways to clean your home workout equipment without damaging them. (Keep in mind that home fitness tools should be handled carefully to prevent damage.)

For equipment

First, wipe surfaces to remove visible dirt and grime. Use a slightly moistened cleaning wipe and wear gloves at all times. You can also dampen a microfiber cloth with water. Avoid using alcohol, bleach, or other abrasive chemicals. These chemicals could cause different damages on your gear depending on the surface material.

Also, avoid spraying liquid solutions directly to your equipment. This is particularly important for cardio machines like stationary bikes or treadmills. Instead, spray a little amount of water on your cleaning wipe before wiping button surfaces.

When your cleaning wipe becomes dirty from accumulating dirt, wash it clean with antibacterial soap and rinse with water.

Don’t use wired brushes or stiff bristles. These dusting materials deteriorate your equipment’s appearance by leaving scratches and visible scrapes.

Second, use an FDA-Approved sanitizing cloth or solution and wipe evenly with a separate cloth until all surfaces are evenly damped. Let your sanitizer dry on your equipment for up to 10 to 30 minutes depending on the instructions. Read your sanitizer label first. Remember: Alcohol is good for metal but bad for some plastics.

Third, use an EPA-Approved disinfectant solution or wipe. Read the label and instructions carefully and follow the proper application procedures. Apply and wipe your equipment until it is visibly wet from the disinfectant. Depending on the dwell time, leave it untouched for the duration. After the contact time is over, wipe the disinfectant off.

For exercise mats

Vacuum your mat frequently to remove dirt from use and storage.

Mop the floor with a disinfecting solution before and after use. This way, you can avoid getting germs and bacteria on your mat when you lay it down for use.

Wash with water and soap after use. Viruses may not be removed by the vacuum. Brush it with disinfecting soap and a soft-bristled brush then rinse. Pro cheer tip: Have more than one mat so you can rotate and disinfect them between workout sessions.

A final note: Clean your home fitness equipment regularly and wear protective gloves at all times while doing so. Avoid touching your face. Most importantly, maintain proper hygiene by taking a bath regularly and washing your hands before and after touching objects!

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