Bumper plates are an essential piece of equipment for any serious weightlifter. But let's be honest: those things can get dirty! From chalk and sweat to dirt and grime, bumper plates can accumulate all sorts of nasty gunk.
But fear not, my fellow lifters: we’re here to provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to clean bumper plates like a pro.
Let’s get scrubbing.Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of bumper plate cleaning, let's talk about why it's important.
First and foremost, cleaning your bumper plates regularly will help extend their lifespan. The buildup of dirt and grime can cause damage to the rubber, making them less effective over time.
Plus, a clean set of bumper plates looks much nicer than a dingy, dirty set. And let's be real, who doesn't want to impress their gym crush with a sparkling set of weights? Oh, you train solo in your home gym? Well, you deserve nice things too.Now, before we get started, let's talk about what you'll need to make those bumper plates shine:
- Bumper plates (obviously)
- A big ol' bucket or bowl
- Dish soap
- A sponge or rag (we recommend a Microfiber towel)
- Warm water
- A towel
Alright, folks, let's get this cleaning party started! Here's your step-by-step guide to making those bumper plates look like they just came off the showroom floor:
Before we get all sudsy, let's shake off any loose debris clinging to those bumper plates. This grime could be dirt, hair, or even a wayward protein bar wrapper. Give them a good brush or wipe them down with a towel.
Now it's time to fill that bucket with warm, soapy water. We're talking about bubbles so thiccc, so you could almost do a bicep curl with them (almost). Use mild dish soap that won't harm the rubber or urethane on your plates.
Use your rag to slop some soapy water on your plates. Let them soak for a few minutes, and take a moment to catch your breath while you admire your handiwork so far.
Alright, folks, it’s time for today’s arm workout. Grab your sponge or rag and start scrubbing those bumper plates. Get into every nook and cranny to ensure you get all that dirt and grime off. Give it some OOMPH. Feel the burn.
Once you've scrubbed those bumper plates clean, rinse them off with clean water. Use a hose or another bucket of water to get rid of all those suds, and make sure your plates are squeaky clean. Last but not least, and this is important, it's time to dry off those bumper plates with a towel. Give them a good rub down until they're dry as a bone to prevent rusting.
And voila! You've successfully cleaned your bumper plates. Take a moment to bask in your accomplishment and maybe even flex those muscles.
Still have questions? We have answers. While a power washer may be tempting to use, it can cause damage to the rubber on your bumper plates. Stick to the good ol' soapy water and sponge method to ensure your plates are cleaned without causing any harm.
While any dish soap should work just fine, we recommend using mild, non-abrasive soap to avoid damaging the rubber or urethane on your bumper plates. Unless you're into the whole "destroying my equipment" thing, then by all means, use the harshest soap you can find. It's not necessary to clean your bumper plates after every workout, but we do recommend cleaning them at least once a week to prevent the buildup of dirt and grime.
To prevent damage to your bumper plates, we recommend storing them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Be sure to use a plate rack or Bumper Plate Weight Tree to keep them organized and damage-free. For those pesky, stubborn stains, try mixing baking soda and dish soap to create a paste.
Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing it off with a sponge or rag. Pro tip: this works when you ANNIHILATE a pan on Taco Tuesday, too. In conclusion, cleaning your bumper plates is no easy task, but with a little elbow grease, you can make it a simple and rewarding activity.
Don't forget to shake off any loose debris, scrub a dub dub with a sponge or rag, and rinse those babies off with clean water. And if you're feeling extra fancy, you can even create a cleaning routine and blast some tunes to make it a party.
Now, let's get cleaning, folks!
