Fitness is essential for your health, and there are many benefits to owning workout equipment. However, whether you’re moving, getting a gym membership, or running out of space at home, you may need to put your dumbbells, elliptical machine, and fitness bench in a storage unit. If you plan to use these items later, preparing them for storage will ensure they're in good condition when you need them. Review this brief guide for some advice.

3 Tips for Storing Workout Equipment

1. Clean Everything

After rigorous workouts, your exercise equipment might be covered in sweat, oil, and dirt from usage. Locking away dirty and smelly equipment in a storage unit with little to no ventilation will only make the odor worse when you get it back. The materials could even be damaged by rust or mold. 

Clean every surface with a soft cloth, warm water, and mild detergent. Essential oils may also help eliminate lingering smells. Metal machines will benefit from a mixture of salt, vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice. Also, lubricate the belt of the treadmill so that it will have no problem running later. To avoid mold and mildew, make sure everything is completely dry before locking it away.

2. Get Racks

Many types of exercise equipment can and should be elevated. For example, hanging prevents yoga mats from wrinkling and helps them air out after cleaning. 

Resistance bands are more likely to retain their elasticity when hung rather than packed, and weights make boxes too heavy and awkward to move, so hanging them is preferable. Using shelves or racks to keep these items off the ground will also avoid damage caused by lingering moisture. 

3. Provide Protection

To shield your exercise equipment from dust, heat, and moisture, cover them with blankets, towels, or plastic sheets. Fold the treadmill to simplify transport and make it compact enough to cover effectively. Also, consider deflating your stability ball and stuffing it in a bag or pillowcase to save space and keep it from rolling around inside the storage unit.

You’ll find the perfect storage unit for your exercise equipment by going to Lockaway Self Storage in Brooklyn, NY. In business since 1989, they boast 1,084 storage spaces of various sizes to suit your needs. Offering 24/7 access, ample lighting, and surveillance cameras, they promise security for your belongings without sacrificing easy access. For more details, call (718) 522-5050 or visit their website.