Gym Hygiene Hacks: Don’t Be That Person 🙄🚫
- friendsforneedsuk
- Jun 4
- 3 min read
Just started hitting the gym? Look, you seriously don’t want to be that person leaving sweat puddles or smelling gross for everyone to notice. Gym life can be overwhelming, sure, but if you don’t keep clean and respectful, you’re gonna stand out — and not in a good way. Good gym hygiene isn’t just about being polite; it’s how you stay healthy and actually feel confident while you’re grinding. Here’s a simple checklist every gym newbie needs to follow if they want to stay fresh.

1. Hand Sanitiser with Coconut Vibes 🥥🧴
Nothing worse than touching sweaty equipment and germs flying everywhere. Bring your own hand sanitiser — like Palmtree Hygiene’s foaming one that smells like coconut and actually cares about the planet. It kills bacteria without leaving your hands feeling dry or crusty, plus it’s made from sustainable palm sap (yeah, trees don’t get hurt). Perfect for keeping your hands fresh between sets.
2. Towel for Sweat Wiping 🧺
No one wants to touch a machine dripping in sweat — that’s just nasty. Always bring a towel to wipe down benches and machines before and after you use them. It’s super easy and shows you respect the gym fam. Plus, it helps stop bacteria spreading around. If you want some extra tips on gym hygiene, this guide from StepToHealth is solid.
3. Fresh Workout Clothes 👕
You don’t gotta change your whole outfit, but at least rock clean clothes each time. Wearing sweaty gear from last time? That’s a quick way to get skin irritation or a serious stank. Fresh clothes = fresh vibes and no embarrassing body odour.

4. Clean Socks & Breathable Trainers 🧦👟
Feet can get super gross if you don’t watch out. Make sure you’ve got clean socks and trainers that let your feet breathe. Trust us, no one wants to be that person with the stinky kicks. Pro tip: Air your trainers out after your workout to avoid nastiness.
5. Deodorant or Body Wipes 🧼
If your gym doesn’t have showers, come prepared with deodorant or body wipes. It’s a quick way to freshen up before you head back to class, work, or just out with mates. Smelling good = confidence on point.
6. Personal Water Bottle 💧
Stay hydrated, but don’t be that person sharing water bottles (ew). Bring your own, keep it clean, and sip throughout your workout. Easy way to keep germs off and keep your energy levels up.

7. Respect Others’ Space and Gear 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Gyms can get crowded, so be chill about sharing equipment and don’t hog machines. Keep your distance, clean up after yourself, and remember everyone’s here for the same reason — to get better. If you want to check official tips on keeping hygiene high in sports, Sport England’s advice is worth a look.
Why Care About Gym Hygiene?
Good hygiene stops nasty skin infections, bad smells, and germs from taking over. It’s a small flex that makes your gym time way more enjoyable for you and everyone else. New to the gym? Follow these tips and you’ll blend right in, feeling fresh and confident from warm-up to cooldown.
So, pack your towel, fresh gear, and that coconut-scented sanitiser, and you’re set. Remember: clean gym = good vibes only. Let’s keep the sweat, not the germs! 💪✨