Hygiene Expectations in Gyms: What Members Want and How to Meet Them
As Australia’s fitness industry continues to grow, so does the awareness around hygiene in gym and fitness spaces. Today’s gym-goers expect more than just equipment and exercise—they expect a clean, safe, and sanitised environment that supports both their health and their peace of mind.
In this post, we’ll explore what modern gym members expect in terms of hygiene and cleanliness, why it matters more than ever, and practical steps that fitness facilities can take to meet these standards.
What Gym Members Expect Today
Hygiene expectations have shifted dramatically over the past few years, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. While basic cleanliness was once “nice to have,” it’s now seen as essential.
Here’s what most members look for in a clean, professional gym:
- Sanitised Equipment: Members expect equipment to be wiped down regularly, especially during busy periods.
- Clean Bathrooms & Showers: Gym users place a high value on fresh-smelling, regularly cleaned toilet and shower areas.
- Readily Available Cleaning Products: Wipes, sprays, and hand sanitiser should be easy to access throughout the gym.
- Visible Cleaning Activity: People feel reassured when they see cleaning staff actively working, especially in high-traffic areas.
Odour Control & Ventilation: Good airflow and a neutral scent signal a space that’s clean and well-maintained.
Why These Expectations Matter
Failing to meet hygiene expectations can have consequences that go far beyond member complaints. Here’s why cleanliness should be top of mind for every gym operator:
- Health & Safety: Dirty equipment and poorly maintained locker rooms can spread bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
- Member Retention: Clean gyms make members feel cared for—leading to longer-term memberships and fewer cancellations.
- Reputation Management: Online reviews often mention cleanliness. One bad experience can affect your star rating.
- Regulatory Compliance: Gyms must meet certain health and hygiene standards, especially those with high-touch communal facilities.
How to Meet These Expectations Effectively
You don’t need to reinvent your entire operations to raise hygiene standards—just implement consistent, realistic routines that show your members you care. Here’s how to start:
1. Set a Clear Cleaning Schedule
Members expect equipment to be wiped down regularly, especially during busy periods.
2. Train Staff in Hygiene Protocols
Make hygiene part of your onboarding and ongoing training. Staff should know which products to use, how to sanitise high-touch areas, and how to respond to member complaints.
3. Stock the Right Products
Use hospital-grade disinfectants where appropriate, and ensure sanitiser and cleaning stations are always stocked and well-positioned.
4. Encourage Member Participation
Gently remind members to wipe down equipment after use—use signage, posters, or even digital reminders.
5. Monitor & Adjust
Gather feedback via surveys or comment boxes. Stay open to change as member expectations evolve.
Need a benchmark for gym hygiene best practices? Check out this official guide to cleaning and disinfection for public facilities from the Australian Department of Health.
Understanding the Two Cleaning Methods
Meeting the hygiene expectations of today’s gym members isn’t just about appearance—it’s about creating a space that feels safe, fresh, and trustworthy. With consistent cleaning routines, properly trained staff, and visible hygiene measures, gyms across Australia can foster loyalty, boost retention, and protect member wellbeing.
At Premium Touch, we specialize in professional gym cleaning services tailored to the unique needs of fitness facilities. From high-traffic equipment areas to change rooms and group studios, we help you stay ahead of hygiene expectations—so your team can focus on training while we handle the cleanliness.
