Gyms use a variety of cleaning and sanitizing products to keep equipment, floors, and surfaces free from germs, bacteria, and viruses. The specific products depend on the area being cleaned.

Here are the most commonly used sanitizing options…

Disinfectant Sprays and Wipes

Gyms often rely on disinfectant sprays or sanitizing wipes to clean high-touch areas like machines, weights, and mats. These products are designed to kill bacteria and viruses on contact.

• Common products – Clorox wipes, Lysol disinfectant spray, or Sani-cloth wipes are popular choices because they are effective against a wide range of pathogens, including flu, cold viruses, and more.
• How they’re used – Disinfectant wipes or sprays are used on handles, benches, and other areas that are frequently touched by gym-goers. Wiping these areas down regularly helps reduce the spread of germs.

All-Purpose Cleaners

For general cleaning of floors, walls, and surfaces, gyms may use all-purpose cleaners that are safe for different types of materials, such as vinyl, rubber, or tile. These cleaners are typically diluted and used to wipe down surfaces.

• How they’re used – These are typically used to clean up dirt, dust, and general grime, but they may also contain antibacterial properties to remove germs on surfaces.

EPA-Registered Disinfectants

In gyms, it’s common to use EPA-approved disinfectants that are specifically designed to kill harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi. These products are often used on gym floors, mats, and equipment.

• How they’re used – They are applied to surfaces and left to sit for a short period (usually 1-10 minutes) to ensure the disinfectant can work effectively before being wiped down.

Antibacterial and Antimicrobial Sprays

Some gyms use specialized antibacterial sprays or antimicrobial solutions designed for use on fabric and upholstery, such as on mats or soft surface equipment like yoga balls. These sprays help prevent bacterial growth and odors.

• Common products: Protexus Electrostatic Disinfectant Spray is often used in high-traffic areas to provide a longer-lasting antimicrobial effect.

UV-C Light Sterilizers

Some gyms have begun using UV-C light systems to sanitize equipment. UV-C light has been shown to kill a wide range of germs, bacteria, and viruses, including those on surfaces or in the air.

• How they’re used – UV-C devices are often used in areas where traditional disinfecting isn’t as effective, such as on high-touch surfaces or in gym lockers. They can also be used to sanitize mats and equipment in between uses.

Steam Cleaners

For deep cleaning, gyms sometimes use steam cleaners to sanitize floors, mats, and certain equipment. Steam cleaning uses high heat to kill bacteria and viruses without chemicals.

• How they’re used – Steam cleaners are effective for deep-cleaning surfaces such as rubber flooring or mats, particularly when used with hot water vapor.

Floor Cleaners and Sanitizers

To keep gym floors germ-free, especially in areas where there is heavy foot traffic, gyms use floor-specific sanitizers that target bacteria without damaging the flooring material.

• How they’re used – These are usually used with a mop or scrubber to clean and disinfect the floor, especially after every high-traffic workout session.

Hand Sanitizers

Many gyms also place hand sanitizing stations throughout the facility to encourage members to sanitize their hands before and after workouts.

• How they’re used – Alcohol-based hand sanitizers (usually containing at least 60% alcohol) are placed at key points like entrance doors, weight areas, and cardio machines to help reduce the spread of germs.

To sanitize effectively, gyms use a combination of disinfectant sprays, wipes, antibacterial solutions, UV-C light sterilizers, and steam cleaners to clean high-touch areas and equipment. Regular cleaning with these products helps maintain a safe, hygienic environment for all gym-goers and reduces the spread of bacteria and viruses.