How to Clean Bacteria From Sporting Equipment
The bacteria types often found on sporting equipment are commonly associated with certain types of skin conditions; namely, MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) and impetigo. These bacteria can infect the lungs, blood and bones if the strain is resistant to antibiotics or goes untreated for an extended period. Clean all sports equipment daily to prevent the spread of bacterial infections. Use chlorine bleach to stop the spread of bacteria in the gym and on the field.
Things You'll Need
- Bleach
- Water
- Spray bottle
- Paper towels
- Clean rags
- Bucket
- Mop
- Washer
- Dryer
- Detergent
Instructions
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1
Prepare a bleach solution that can effectively kill bacteria on sports equipment. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends a mixture of one part bleach and 10 parts water. Pour into a spray bottle for easy cleaning.
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2
Spray the bleach solution on sports equipment that is used by more than one person, especially if it comes in contact with the skin. This includes football helmets, wrestling helmets, racket grips, hockey stick grips, baseball bats and balls. Spray the solution on each piece of equipment. Leave on for one minute and wipe off with a clean paper towel.
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3
Clean bacteria from locker room and shower areas with the bleach solution. Use the spray to clean walls, lockers, benches and other hard surfaces. Mix a separate solution in a bucket and use a mop to kill bacteria that may be lurking on floors.
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4
Mop both sides of wrestling mats with the bleach solution after each practice and match. Any wall padding that comes in contact with human skin should also be wiped down with a clean rag dipped in the bleach solution.
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5
Throw towels and linens in a washing machine in hot water with detergent and dry on a high setting. Use bleach in the wash if possible.
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Tips & Warnings
All bleach solutions that are used for cleaning should be mixed daily. Unused cleaner can be safely flushed down the toilet.
Never use the bleach solution to disinfect your hands or to clean a wound.
Bleach should never be mixed with ammonia products.
