Gyms need to be cleaned frequently to ensure they’re safe, sanitary, and pleasant for members. The specific frequency can depend on factors like the size of the gym, the number of members, and the type of equipment.

Here’s a general breakdown of how often different areas of the gym should be cleaned…

Daily Cleaning (Multiple Times a Day)

• High-Touch Surfaces – Areas like door handles, light switches, handrails, and reception counters should be cleaned multiple times a day. These surfaces can accumulate germs quickly because they are touched by so many people.
• Gym Equipment – Cardio machines (like treadmills, ellipticals, and bikes), strength training machines, free weights, and benches should be wiped down at least once a day or more frequently, depending on use. Some gyms may do this throughout the day, especially during peak hours.
• Restrooms & Locker Rooms – These should be cleaned daily, ideally more than once. This includes toilets, sinks, mirrors, and showers. Locker rooms should also have trash emptied and floors swept or mopped regularly.
• Trash & Recycling: Trash bins should be emptied daily and sometimes even more often in high-traffic areas.

Weekly Cleaning

• Floors – Floors in high-traffic areas (like the weightlifting and cardio zones) should be swept, mopped, or vacuumed weekly. This ensures that dust, debris, and sweat residues are kept under control.
• Deep Clean Equipment – While daily wiping down is necessary, a deeper clean of equipment (especially upholstery and hard-to-reach spots) should happen weekly to prevent buildup of sweat, oils, and grime.
• Air Vents & Filters – Air systems should be checked and cleaned to ensure optimal airflow and air quality. Depending on the gym, this may need to be done weekly or monthly.
• Mats & Flooring – Yoga mats, fitness mats, and any special flooring used in studios or fitness areas should be deep cleaned weekly to remove oils, dirt, and sweat.

Monthly Cleaning

• Deep-Cleaning Equipment – Monthly, gym staff should clean equipment more thoroughly by wiping down areas that don’t get cleaned as often, like the backs of machines, underneath benches, and around cable systems. It’s also a good time to check for maintenance issues (like frayed cables or equipment that needs lubricating).
• Full Restroom Overhaul – While restrooms are cleaned daily, a full, deep clean of grout, behind toilets, and other hard-to-reach spots in the locker rooms should happen monthly.
• Sanitizing Common Areas – Large areas such as group fitness rooms or lounges can be deep cleaned monthly, focusing on things like mirrors, windows, and dust in corners.

Special Circumstances

• Post-High-Traffic Hours – During peak times (like right after a busy class or early morning rush), it’s a good idea to do spot cleaning or light disinfecting in common areas. A quick wipe-down of cardio machines or benches after each use can be helpful during these times.
• Seasonal or Health Concerns – During flu season, or if there’s a known health risk (like a virus outbreak), cleaning may need to be more frequent, and gym staff may implement stricter disinfecting protocols (such as using hospital-grade cleaners or disinfecting equipment every few hours).
• After Events – If the gym hosts special events or large classes, cleaning should be more intensive afterward to ensure the space is ready for the next group of members.

Member Responsibility

• In addition to gym staff cleaning, members are usually expected to clean equipment after each use. Many gyms (including Planet Fitness) have spray bottles and wipes for members to sanitize equipment like benches, weights, and cardio machines. This is essential for maintaining hygiene, especially in high-traffic areas.

Summary of Frequency

• Multiple times a day – High-touch areas, gym equipment, trash.
• Daily – Restrooms, locker rooms, floors, and equipment.
• Weekly – Deep clean equipment, floors, and mats, check air vents.
• Monthly – Full equipment inspection and cleaning, deep clean restrooms and common areas.