One of the worst violations of gym etiquette – especially this time of year – is when someone steps off the treadmill or walks away from a weight machine without taking the time to wipe it down. As if lingering sweat particles aren’t offensive enough, germs that spread colds, the flu or other illness can be left behind for the next unknowing equipment user to pick up.
While it’s a hassle to start each exercise with a disinfecting session, being proactive about sanitizing can help keep you healthy during colder months of the year when more people (and their bacteria buddies) work out indoors. If your gym doesn’t provide cleansing spray or wipes, or you’re concerned about harsh chemicals in the ones that are available, try making your own.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Large bowl
- Recycled hand sanitizer bottles or small containers
- Funnel (optional)
- Paper towels (for wipes)
Homemade Sanitizing Wipes
Paper towels
¼ cups water
¼ cup pure aloe vera gel
¼ cup witch hazel
1 Tbsp.apple cider vinegar
10 drops essential oil of your choice (suggestions:peppermint, eucalyptus, ylang ylang)
10 drops tea tree essential oil
- Stack together about 20 paper towels; cut towels in half.
- In bowl, combine remaining ingredients and stir well.
- Roll up paper towels and place in bowl to absorb liquid.
- Place wipes in a recycled baby wipes container or plastic zipper-lock bag.
Tea Tree & Lavender Sanitizing Spray
8 oz. aloe vera gel
1 Tbsp. witch hazel
25-30 drop tea tree essential oil
9 drops lavender essential oil
9 drops clove essential oil
In bowl, mix together essential oils. Add aloe vera gel and witch hazel; stir to combine. Use funnel to pour into bottle or container of choice.
Natural Citrus Sanitizing Spray
1/3 cup aloe vera gel
2/3 cup 99% isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol)
5 drops mandarin orange essential oil
5 drops pink grapefruit essential oil
In bowl combine all ingredients and mix well. Use funnel to pour mixture into bottle or container of choice.