When choosing a cleaner for gyms, it’s important to balance effectiveness, safety, and environmental friendliness. You want something that kills germs, eliminates odors, and doesn’t damage equipment or irritate members’ skin.

Here’s a breakdown of some of the best options for cleaning gym surfaces, equipment, and floors…

Disinfectant Sprays & Wipes

These are commonly used in gyms for quick and easy sanitation of equipment after each use. Some of the best ones for gyms include…

• Clorox® Disinfecting Wipes – These are popular because they’re effective against a wide range of viruses, bacteria, and fungi. They’re convenient, easy to use, and work well on equipment, benches, and high-touch surfaces.
• Purell® Surface Disinfectant – Known for killing 99.99% of germs, Purell’s disinfectant is non-toxic and can be used on a variety of surfaces, including exercise equipment. It’s safe for use around food, so it’s also good for gyms with cafes or eating areas.
• Lysol® Disinfectant Spray – Another reliable option for surfaces, Lysol is great for spraying down equipment, floors, and restrooms. It kills a broad spectrum of pathogens and has a fresh scent.

General-Purpose Cleaners

For daily cleaning, you need something that can remove grime, dirt, and sweat without leaving residue. Some options that work well in a gym setting are…

• Simple Green® Industrial Cleaner – This is a biodegradable, all-purpose cleaner that’s great for floors, mats, and surfaces. It’s gentle but effective, and it’s non-toxic and safe to use around gym equipment.
• Ecolab® Oasis 146 – A pH-neutral cleaner, this is ideal for daily use in gyms because it won’t damage equipment, is non-corrosive, and works on a wide variety of surfaces. It’s also environmentally friendly and reduces the need for multiple cleaning products.
• Zep® All Purpose Cleaner – This versatile cleaner is often used in commercial spaces and works well on floors, walls, and equipment. It cuts through grease and grime and doesn’t leave residue behind.

Floor Cleaners

Depending on your gym flooring (rubber, vinyl, tile, etc.), you’ll want a cleaner specifically suited for those surfaces…

• Pro-Vac™ Floor Cleaner – Great for rubber gym floors, Pro-Vac removes dirt and debris while ensuring the surface stays slip-resistant. It’s designed for the high-traffic areas of gyms.
• Betco® Green Earth Floor Cleaner – This is an eco-friendly floor cleaner that works well on vinyl, rubber, and tile. It’s safe for daily use and designed for high-traffic areas with minimal residue.

Heavy-Duty Disinfectants for Germs & Viruses

For a higher level of sanitation (such as in times of flu outbreaks or during pandemics), use hospital-grade disinfectants that are strong enough to tackle viruses and bacteria…

• Virex® II 256 – A hospital-grade disinfectant that’s very effective against viruses, bacteria, and fungi. It’s ideal for gym equipment that sees heavy use, such as weight machines, cardio equipment, and mats.
• Sani-Spritz® Disinfectant – Used in health clubs and fitness centers, this is a powerful disinfectant that targets harmful pathogens while still being safe for equipment. It’s also quick-drying, which is a plus in high-traffic areas.

Eco-Friendly Options

If sustainability is a priority, consider green cleaning products that are safe for both the environment and your gym members…

• Seventh Generation® Disinfecting Multi-Surface Cleaner – A plant-based disinfectant that kills germs while being free of harmful chemicals. It’s a great option for gyms that want to go green while still keeping surfaces sanitized.
• Method® All-Purpose Cleaner – An eco-friendly cleaner with a pleasant scent, Method’s product is biodegradable and can clean a wide range of surfaces in the gym.

Odor Control Products

Gyms can get smelly, especially in locker rooms or workout areas where there’s a lot of sweat. Using the right odor neutralizer can make a huge difference.

• OdorBan® Disinfectant – This product is both a disinfectant and an odor eliminator, helping to tackle both germs and smells in one. It’s great for misting around the gym, in locker rooms, or near gym equipment.
• Moldex® Odor Killer – Moldex is designed to kill odors caused by sweat, mildew, and mold, making it a good choice for gyms that need both a disinfectant and deodorizer.

Gym-Specific Cleaners

Some brands make products specifically for gyms, offering a comprehensive solution for different types of surfaces and equipment. These cleaners often combine disinfecting power with a gentler formula to protect equipment and reduce wear.

• CleanSmart® Disinfecting Solution – This cleaner is designed for use on fitness equipment, including machines and mats, and it’s non-toxic, alcohol-free, and effective at killing germs without leaving residues behind.

Key Considerations for Choosing the Right Cleaner

• Effectiveness – Make sure the cleaner kills the necessary germs (viruses, bacteria, fungi) and is approved by health authorities.
• Material Compatibility – Some cleaners can damage certain types of equipment (like upholstery or rubber mats), so always check compatibility before use.
• Skin Sensitivity – Choose cleaners that won’t irritate the skin of members. Harsh chemicals can cause skin reactions, so it’s good to avoid those, especially in areas where people will be in close contact (like mats or yoga blocks).
• Environmental Impact – Opt for biodegradable or eco-friendly cleaners to minimize your gym’s environmental footprint, especially if your gym is promoting sustainability.

The best cleaner will depend on your gym’s needs, but having a variety of sanitizers, disinfectants, and eco-friendly products on hand will allow you to cover all the bases – killing germs, removing dirt, and maintaining equipment longevity. Regular cleaning and proper disinfecting are essential to keep your gym safe and appealing to members.