Covid 19: Cleaning and Disinfecting Guidlines for Fitness Equipment

Apr 18, 2020

Great Document put out by Johnson Health Tech, Matrix --> https://www.johnsonfitness.com/

Since maintaining healthy environments is top of mind, we’ve assembled equipment cleaning and disinfecting guidelines for you. 

Understanding the difference between cleaning and disinfecting fitness equipment

According to the CDC, cleaning removes germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces or objects. Cleaning works by using soap (or detergent) and water to physically remove germs from surfaces. This process does not necessarily kill germs, but by removing them, it lowers their numbers and the risk of spreading infection.

Disinfecting uses chemicals to kill germs on surfaces or objects. This process does not clean dirty surfaces, but kills germs on a surface after cleaning. It can further lower the risk of spreading infection.

Recommended procedure for cleaning and disinfecting fitness equipment

1. First, wash surfaces on the machine to remove germs. Matrix recommends the following cleaners: mild dish soap and water (1:10 dilution); vinegar and water (1:20 dilution); or cleaning wipes (e.g., Athletix cleaning wipes). 

 Be sure to apply the cleaner first to a clean cloth, and then use the cloth to wipe down the equipment.

Always avoid spraying a cleaner directly on equipment as it may penetrate openings and cause corrosion or damage to electronic components.

2. After thoroughly wiping the cleaner off the machine, follow with an EPA-registered disinfectant to kill any remaining germs. Some popular disinfectants include: Simple Green, Virex II 256, Puregreen 24, or disinfecting wipes (e.g., Athletix disinfecting wipes).

Ensure the solution you are using is appropriate for the surface you are disinfecting. Improperly diluted disinfectants can dull the finish on your fitness equipment and cause irreversible corrosion. Disinfectants usually require the product to remain on the surface for a certain period of time (e.g., 3 to 5 minutes). Be sure to remove the disinfectant once the time has elapsed. Failure to remove disinfectant can cause corrosion.

Use disinfecting wipes on electronic items that are touched often, such as consoles and speed/incline buttons. It may be necessary to use more than one wipe to keep the surface wet for the stated length of contact time.

Always follow a manufacturer’s label instructions for cleaning products and disinfectants.

Recommended cleaning and disinfecting frequency
Matrix recommends cleaning each piece of equipment before and after use. Trained staff members should disinfect the machines once or twice daily. Frequency should vary with facility traffic. It is also recommended that your staff use the appropriate protective clothing (e.g., gloves, mask) as specified by the product’s manufacturer.