How to properly clean and sanitize your treadmill or elliptical

Treadmills and ellipticals are popular fitness machines used by millions of people worldwide. Like any other gym equipment, these machines require regular cleaning and sanitizing to maintain their performance and longevity. 

A dirty and unsanitary machine can affect its functioning, lead to foul odor, and harbor harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi that can cause infections and allergies. In this article, we'll discuss how to properly clean and sanitize your treadmill or elliptical to ensure a safe and healthy workout environment.

Step 1: Gather Supplies

• Before you start cleaning your treadmill or elliptical, gather the necessary supplies. You'll need a few microfiber cloths or towels, a cleaning solution, and a disinfectant. You can purchase commercial gym equipment cleaners or make a DIY cleaning solution at home.

•  A simple mixture of water, vinegar, and baking soda works well to clean and deodorize the machine. You'll also need a spray bottle, a bucket, and a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment.

Step 2: Turn off the Machine

• Before you start cleaning your treadmill or elliptical, turn off the machine and unplug it from the power source. This will prevent any electrical accidents and ensure your safety.

Step 3: Vacuum the Machine

• Start by vacuuming the machine using a brush attachment. Pay attention to the crevices and corners where dust, debris, and hair can accumulate.

•  Use a dry microfiber cloth or towel to wipe off any remaining dirt or debris.

Step 4: Clean the Surfaces

• Once you've removed the dirt and debris, it's time to clean the surfaces of the machine. Spray the cleaning solution or the DIY mixture onto a microfiber cloth or towel and wipe down the surfaces of the machine, including the console, handles, grips, and pedals. 

• Make sure you cover all the areas, and don't forget the areas that are frequently touched, such as the buttons and handles. Avoid spraying the cleaning solution directly onto the machine, as it can damage the electronics and sensors.

Step 5: Disinfect the Machine

• After cleaning the machine, it's time to disinfect it. Spray a disinfectant onto a microfiber cloth or towel and wipe down the surfaces of the machine, including the console, handles, grips, and pedals. 

• Make sure you cover all the areas and let the disinfectant sit for at least five minutes before wiping it off. This will ensure that all the harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi are killed.

Step 6: Clean the Belt

• The belt of the treadmill or elliptical is the most used and abused part of the machine, and it requires special attention. Start by vacuuming the belt to remove any dirt, dust, or debris. 

• Then, using a clean microfiber cloth or towel, wipe down the belt with the cleaning solution or the DIY mixture.

•  Make sure you cover the entire surface of the belt, including the edges. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or brushes, as they can damage the belt. Once you've cleaned the belt, let it air dry for at least 30 minutes before using the machine again.

Step 7: Clean the Motor

• The motor of the treadmill or elliptical is the heart of the machine and requires proper care and maintenance. Start by vacuuming the motor compartment to remove any dirt, dust, or debris.

•  Then, using a clean microfiber cloth or towel, wipe down the motor compartment with the cleaning solution or the DIY mixture. 

• Make sure you cover all the surfaces, including the fan blades and the vents. 

• Avoid spraying the cleaning solution directly onto the motor, as it can damage the electronics and sensors. Once you've cleaned the motor, let it air dry for at least 30 minutes before using the machine again.

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