If you use your garage for the storage of fitness equipment, you are probably no stranger to the unpleasant odors that accompany gym bags, workout gear and other sweaty apparel. Bacteria thrive in dark, moist rooms, and your garage is the perfect place for cultivating both odors and germs. Follow these simple tips from the garage organization experts at Arizona Garage & Closet Design to keep your garage free from bacteria and unpleasant aromas.

Hang Clothing to Dry Immediately

Hang sweaty garments to dry instead of leaving them in a hamper or your gym bag if you cannot wash them immediately. If damp clothing is left unwashed for too long, it can breed mildew and other germs. However, hanging the clothing to air-dry can prevent the accumulation of mold spores and odors.

Soak Clothing before Washing

Before you send a load of laundry through the washing machine, soak it in a baking soda and water mixture. Use four tablespoons of baking soda per quart of warm water to pre-soak uniforms and other sweaty clothing to help get body odors out.

Use Vinegar on Sports Equipment

Use vinegar for the harder to wash gear, such as helmets and pads. A spray bottle containing half vinegar and half warm water will get the job done. Just let everything air dry naturally – no wiping is needed – and then add a few drops of lavender or a different scented oil to dilute the vinegar smell.

Air Out Equipment in the Sun

While equipment does not need to be washed every single time it is used, these items should always be allowed to dry thoroughly before being stored. The sun is nature’s best bacteria deterrent. Allow sweaty, dirty equipment to dry in the sun before storing it in a garage. In the hot, dry Phoenix summer, your gear is sure to air very quickly.

Baking Soda for All Purposes

Sprinkle baking soda in each shoe and gym bag after use and add it to laundry detergent. Doing so balances pH levels to get clothes cleaner in the washing machine. Because baking soda absorbs odors, leave an open box in the garage cabinet where you store your sporting equipment to keep it smelling fresh.

Beware of Harsh Chemicals

Never use harsh chemical products, such as bleach, on padding or foam. These will break down the fibers and weaken the material, which can limit the protection such equipment provides. Once mold or mildew starts to accumulate on foam padding, that specific piece of equipment will most likely need to be replaced. A little prevention goes a long way, so be sure to keep athletic equipment clean after every use.

The area in your garage used to store sporting equipment does not have to smell like the gym locker room. With diligence and some extra effort after every use, your athletic equipment and fitness clothing can remain as clean and fresh as the day they were purchased.

If you find yourself in need of an organization system for your athletic gear in your Phoenix garage, a custom garage storage system might be right for you. Whether you need more storage space or you want to convert your garage into a home fitness center, our garage organization experts will work with you to transform your garage into a functional and stylish space that reflects your unique, active lifestyle. Contact Arizona Garage & Closet Design for a complimentary in-home garage design estimate today. For more tips on keeping your athletic gear organized and ready for adventure, download our latest free guide!

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