Home / News & Inspiration / New Year, New Gym: Maintaining Spotless Facilities During Peak Seasons

New Year, New Gym: Maintaining Spotless Facilities During Peak Seasons

25/02/2025

As the new year begins, gyms across the UK experience a significant increase in attendance. Fitness resolutions drive millions of people to sign up for memberships, leading to busier workout spaces, more shared equipment, and higher foot traffic. In fact, UK gym visits increase by around 18% in the first three

Gym As the new year begins, gyms across the UK experience a significant increase in attendance. Fitness resolutions drive millions of people to sign up for memberships, leading to busier workout spaces, more shared equipment, and higher foot traffic. In fact, UK gym visits increase by around 18% in the first three months of the year as people commit to their fitness goals.

With this influx of gym-goers, maintaining high cleanliness standards is crucial. Sweaty equipment, bacteria-laden surfaces, and high-traffic floors require frequent cleaning to prevent the spread of germs and ensure a hygienic environment. Here’s how to keep your gym spotless with the right products, techniques, and sustainable cleaning solutions.

The Early-Year Gym Surge: Why Cleanliness Matters

The fitness industry in the UK is booming, with over 10 million people holding gym memberships and more than 17 million individuals using fitness and leisure facilities each year. This number grows significantly in January, February, and March, as new members join and existing ones renew their commitment to fitness.

But with increased gym traffic comes increased bacteria and dirt buildup. Studies show that free weights can carry 362 times more bacteria than a toilet seat, while treadmill handles are covered with up to 74 times more bacteria than a public bathroom tap. Without proper hygiene measures, gyms can become a breeding ground for germs, fungi, and viruses, putting members at risk of illness and infections.

To ensure a safe and welcoming environment, gym owners and staff must use high-quality cleaning products and follow best hygiene practices to keep equipment, floors, and communal areas spotless.

Essential Cleaning Products for Gyms

To maintain a clean and germ-free gym, use the following must-have cleaning products.

1. Disinfectants and Sanitisers

Best for: Gym equipment, weights, benches, and high-touch areas.

Using an effective disinfectant ensures the removal of bacteria, viruses, and fungi from gym surfaces. Look for fast-drying, non-corrosive sanitisers that kill germs without damaging equipment.

Recommended Products:

BioHygiene all-purpose Sanitiser – Eco-friendly & effective
Selden 3 in One Disinfectant Cleaner – Fast-acting & safe

2. Microfiber Cloths

Best for: Wiping down surfaces without spreading germs.

Microfiber cloths are highly absorbent and trap bacteria more effectively than regular cloths. They prevent cross-contamination and reduce the need for harsh chemicals.

Recommended Products:

Microfibre Cloths – Reusable & long-lasting
Disinfectant Wipes – Convenient for quick clean-ups

3. Floor Cleaning Solutions

Best for: High-traffic areas, reception spaces, and workout zones.

Gyms experience heavy footfall, which leads to sweaty, dirty floors. Using the right floor cleaner prevents slips, eliminates bacteria, and keeps the space looking fresh.

Recommended Products:

BioHygiene Floor Cleaner – Non-toxic & eco-friendly
Selden Neutral Floor Cleaner – Gentle but effective on all surfaces

4. Mops and Buckets

Best for: Deep cleaning gym floors.

Regular mopping removes dust, sweat, and grime, especially in changing rooms and showers where bacteria thrive.

Recommended Products:

Professional Mop & Mop Head– Durable & easy to use
Mop Starter Kit – Ideal for large floor areas

Best Cleaning Techniques for a Spotless Gym

Keeping a gym clean requires a consistent and structured cleaning routine. Here’s a step-by-step guide to maintaining hygiene throughout the facility:

Wiping down weights in gym
1. Daily Equipment Wipe-Downs

Encourage members to wipe down machines before and after use.
Place sanitising stations with disinfectant sprays and paper towels in key areas.
Use microfiber cloths to clean machines without leaving streaks or residue.

2. Scheduled Deep Cleaning

Strength equipment & weights: Wipe down handles, seats, and grips.
Cardio machines: Pay extra attention to touchscreens and handrails.
Mats & workout accessories: Use a disinfectant spray to prevent bacterial growth.

3. Floor Maintenance

Sweep and mop floors twice daily to remove dirt and sweat.
Use a neutral pH cleaner to protect surfaces and prevent damage.
Dry mop rubber floors to keep them free from dust and debris.

4. Changing Room & Locker Hygiene

Disinfect shower areas, benches, and lockers at least twice daily.
Use mould-resistant cleaners to prevent build-up in humid areas.
Provide antibacterial soap in washrooms to encourage hand hygiene.

5. Ventilation & Air Quality Maintenance

Clean air vents and change filters regularly.
Open windows and use air purifiers to improve air circulation.
Regularly disinfect fans and air-conditioning units.

Sustainable Cleaning Practices

More gyms are shifting towards eco-friendly and human-safe cleaning solutions. Switching to biodegradable, non-toxic cleaning products protects the environment while ensuring a safe workout space for members.

Sustainable Cleaning Solutions:

BioHygiene Range: Uses plant-based ingredients that break down naturally.
Refillable Cleaning Bottles: Reduce plastic waste and cut costs.
Microfiber Cloths: Minimise chemical use while effectively trapping dirt.

By using sustainable cleaning solutions, gyms can reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining top hygiene standards.

Keep Your Gym Clean & Safe This Year

The first three months of the year are the busiest time for gyms, making hygiene and cleanliness more important than ever. A well-maintained gym prevents the spread of germs, enhances member experience, and boosts retention rates.

By using high-quality cleaning products, following a structured cleaning routine, and adopting sustainable practices, gym owners can create a safe, hygienic, and welcoming space for everyone.