What cleaning products should I avoid using on my equipment?Updated a month ago
Quick Answer
Avoid bleach, ammonia, solvents, abrasive cleaners, and high-alcohol products (over 70% alcohol). These can damage vinyl, foam, plastic, and metal finishes. Use mild soap and water or gentle disinfectants instead.
Products to Avoid
Harsh Chemical Cleaners:
- Undiluted bleach: Discolors and degrades vinyl and foam
- Ammonia-based cleaners: Can crack and dry out materials
- Acetone or nail polish remover: Dissolves plastics and vinyl
- Paint thinner or turpentine: Damages all surfaces
- Oven cleaners: Too caustic for fitness equipment
Abrasive Products:
- Scouring pads or steel wool: Scratches surfaces
- Abrasive powder cleaners: Damages finishes
- Rough brushes: Can tear vinyl and foam
High-Alcohol Products:
- Rubbing alcohol (90%+ concentration): Dries and cracks vinyl
- Alcohol-based sanitizers (high concentration): Can damage foam grips
- Industrial degreasers: Too harsh for most materials
Other Products to Avoid:
- Furniture polish or oils: Creates slippery surfaces, traps dirt
- Wax products: Buildup causes sticky residue
- Strongly scented cleaners: May leave residue or cause allergic reactions
- Petroleum-based products: Degrades rubber and vinyl
Why These Products Cause Damage
Vinyl and upholstery: Harsh chemicals dry out materials, causing cracking and peeling. High alcohol content removes protective coatings.
Foam materials: Solvents and abrasives break down foam structure, causing deterioration and odor retention.
Metal components: Some cleaners strip protective finishes or cause corrosion.
Plastic parts: Acetone and similar solvents can melt or cloud plastic surfaces.
Safe Alternatives
- Mild dish soap and water: Best for regular cleaning
- White vinegar solution (diluted): Natural disinfectant
- Gentle all-purpose cleaners: pH-neutral formulas
- Equipment-specific wipes: Designed for gym equipment
- Low-alcohol disinfectants (under 70%): Safe for most surfaces
Warranty Considerations
Using harsh or abrasive cleaners may void your equipment warranty if damage results from improper care. Your warranty covers manufacturing defects but not damage from misuse, including inappropriate cleaning products.
Testing New Products
If using a new cleaning product:
- Test on small, inconspicuous area first
- Wait 24 hours to check for discoloration or damage
- If no issues, proceed with full cleaning
Product-Specific Recommendations
For cleaning product recommendations specific to your equipment model, search the help center for your product manual. Manuals include material specifications and approved cleaning methods.
Still Need Help?
Questions about which cleaning products are safe for your equipment? Contact [email protected] or call 714-738-1729.