Although going to the gym is often considered good for female health, a recent study reveals that microbes and bacteria may bring on a health problem of a different nature. Over 70% of the bacteria found on gym equipment such as free weights and the treadmill is harmful. However, there are ways to keep bacteria away from your gym gear.

Keep Your Clothing Bacteria Free

Bacteria is the leading cause why gym clothing gets funky no matter how many  times you have sent it through the wash/rinse cycle. When coming home from the gym, it is important to let the clothing air dry first before adding the garments to the laundry basket as a damp, dark laundry basket is the playground of smelly bacteria. To prevent odors, turn the clothing inside out before adding them to the machine to properly clean the clothing.

While it’s tempting to add loads of detergent, less is more when it comes to bacteria as soapy suds make the smell worse if not rinsed properly. By reducing the detergent, adding around a cup of white vinegar, and doing away with fabric softener entirely, clothes come out smelling fresh.

Make Use Of Anti-Bacterial Detergent

Even if a machine looks clean, it is important not to assume it. Not all gym patrons are mindful of cleaning the equipment they just used, which leaves it to the next patron to ensure the area is germ-free. While many gyms provide anti-bacterial detergent along with paper towels or specially formulated wet wipes, it’s important to have sanitizing wipes of your own handy. A towel which is separate from your exercise towel is also a good to keep handy, as sweaty hands tend to be the culprit. Wiping down the equipment is essential as free weights have been found to have 362 times more bacteria than a public toilet.

Remember Your Other Personal Gear Too

While you might have paid special attention to your clothing and the equipment, there are other gym items that may also be teeming with germs. Gym gloves come into contact with all the equipment in the gym and deserve some special attention too. Swim caps are also a good carrier for germs and the gym towel simply has to be washed immediately when reaching home. One item that is often forgotten, however, is the gym bag.

While the items inside are often taken care of, the bag itself could harbor all sorts of germs and bacteria. Airing out the bag by turning it inside out and leaving it in direct sunlight is a good start.

A workout is a chance to focus on improving the body, whether for fitness, strength, or health reasons. When these workouts are compromised by ill health caused by bacteria and germs, it can reduce motivation to workout. A healthy hygiene routine can solve this dilemma. Share these tips with your family, friends, and workout buddies to keep your gym clean as possible.