Refresh and Renew: How to Spring Clean Your Workout Equipment

“You don’t rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems.” — James Clear

Spring is nature’s cue for renewal—and it’s not just your closet or kitchen that could use a reset. Your fitness gear works hard for you day after day. Over time, it collects sweat, bacteria, wear, and clutter. And just like your habits, your equipment needs regular maintenance to perform at its best.

This season, carve out time to spring clean your fitness routine from the ground up—starting with your gear.

Why It Matters: Clean Gear, Clear Mind

There’s more at stake than aesthetics. Dirty or poorly maintained equipment can impact your health, your performance, and even your motivation.

• Hygiene: Sweat, bacteria, and mildew love to hide in yoga mats, lifting straps, and gym bags.

• Performance: Worn-down gear (think: frayed resistance bands or stiff jump ropes) can hinder your progress.

• Longevity: Just like recovery for your body, regular maintenance gives your tools the longevity they deserve.

Cleaning your fitness gear isn’t just a chore—it’s a habit that supports your bigger goals.

The 5-Step System to Spring Clean Your Fitness Equipment

This system works just like habit stacking: simple, intentional, and repeatable.

1. Gather and Audit

Pull out everything—shoes, mats, foam rollers, resistance bands, dumbbells, you name it. Sort into three piles:

• Keep and clean

• Repair or replace

• Donate or discard

Be honest. If it’s unused, uncomfortable, or beyond repair, let it go.

2. Deep Clean by Category

Use the right approach for each type of gear:

• Yoga mats & foam rollers: Wipe down with a mix of water, white vinegar, and essential oils.

• Weights & kettlebells: Use a damp cloth and mild soap. Dry thoroughly to prevent rust.

• Bands & straps: Hand wash with warm, soapy water and hang dry.

• Shoes: Wash laces and insoles separately. Let them fully air out (bonus: sprinkle baking soda to absorb odors).

• Gym bags: Empty and vacuum crumbs, then machine or hand wash depending on the material.

3. Set Up a Maintenance Habit

Just like brushing your teeth or tracking your workouts, add equipment care to your routine.

• Quick wipe-down after workouts

• Monthly deep clean reminder in your calendar

• Rotate out gear that’s showing wear

Small acts, done consistently, have a compounding effect.

4. Reorganize Your Space

Reclaim order and make it easier to stay consistent. Try:

• Hooks or shelves for bands and straps

• Bins for smaller items like lacrosse balls or jump ropes

• A designated “gear zone” so everything’s ready when you are

An organized space makes the decision to train even easier.

5. Celebrate the Refresh

There’s something powerful about starting with a clean slate. Fresh gear can act as a visual cue, a tiny source of motivation, and a reward in itself.

Don’t underestimate the momentum that comes from taking small, intentional action. Spring cleaning your gear is a step toward respecting the work you put in every day.

Final Thought: Your Gear Reflects Your Habits

You don’t have to overhaul everything overnight. But just like progress in the gym, small maintenance actions done consistently create powerful results over time.

This spring, let your reset begin with what’s in your hands—literally. Clean it, organize it, and keep showing up.

Got gear that’s ready to retire? Talk to a coach about our equipment swap, donation drive, or recommendations for high-quality replacements. Let’s keep your momentum strong and your tools ready for the next PR.