Rubber flooring is known for its durability and low maintenance, but it still requires proper care to perform and look its best over time. Understanding how to clean rubber gym floors, including how to clean gym mats and other rubber surfaces, helps prevent odor buildup, surface damage, and premature wear. With the right rubber floor cleaning approach and consistent routines, cleaning rubber gym floors becomes simple and effective.
To support a consistent cleaning routine, it’s also important to have the right amount of supplies on hand. If you’re unsure how many wipes your facility actually needs, this guide breaks it down based on gym size and usage: How many wipes does my gym need?
This guide breaks down the best way to clean rubber gym floors so you can keep your facility clean, safe, and welcoming for every member.
How to Clean Rubber Flooring for Gyms
Establishing a daily and weekly cleaning routine is essential for maintaining rubber gym flooring and ensuring optimal cleanliness.
For daily cleaning, perform quick vacuuming or dry dust mopping one to three times per day. In commercial settings, wet mopping should also be done daily.
When Using Our Rubber Floor Cleaner, Follow These Three Easy Steps:
- Dilute the solution with water (1–2 oz per gallon for mop and bucket; 10 oz per gallon for floor scrubbers).
- Use a mop and bucket for routine cleaning and a floor scrubber for regular deep cleaning.
- Allow the cleaner to sit for 5–7 minutes, then mop or wet-vacuum excess solution with clean water.
Review our rubber floor maintenance guide for a more detailed breakdown of the process.
What to Avoid When Cleaning Rubber Gym Floors
Rubber gym flooring is durable, but improper cleaning methods can shorten its lifespan and damage the surface. Avoiding common mistakes is just as important as knowing the best way to clean rubber gym floors.
For a complete breakdown of the safest and most effective products to use, read our guide to the top gym cleaning products and learn how to keep your facility cleaner and safer year-round.
Avoid Harsh or Abrasive Cleaners
Bleach, ammonia, and solvent-based cleaners can break down rubber, causing discoloration, cracking, or sticky residue. Always use rubber floor–safe cleaning solutions designed for gyms.
Don’t Use Excessive Water
Flooding rubber flooring can trap moisture beneath tiles or seams, leading to odors, mold, and long-term damage. Use damp mopping rather than soaking the floor.
Avoid Abrasive Tools and Scrubbers
Wire brushes and stiff scrubbers scratch rubber surfaces, making floors harder to clean over time. Use soft-bristle brushes or microfiber mops instead.
Don’t Skip Regular Cleaning
Allowing sweat, chalk, and debris to accumulate leads to staining, odors, and safety issues. Consistent cleaning prevents long-term damage.
Avoid Oil-Based or Wax Products
Wax and oil-based treatments leave slippery residue and reduce traction, creating safety hazards in gym environments.
Choosing the Right Cleaning Products
Choosing proper cleaning products is essential to maintaining rubber gym flooring. Avoid harsh chemicals and use pH-neutral cleaners designed specifically for rubber surfaces.
Our Rubber Sport Flooring Cleaner & Degreaser is safe for daily use, effective for deep cleaning, and eco-friendly. It can be used with a mop and bucket or an automatic floor scrubber.
With proper care and consistent routines, rubber flooring can last for years while maintaining its appearance.
Shop Rubber Flooring Cleaning Supplies
Is a Floor Scrubber Machine Needed?
A complete rubber floor cleaning routine should include periodic deep cleaning with a floor scrubber. Floor scrubbers remove sweat, oils, and chalk buildup, extending the life of your flooring.
If you’re considering a floor scrubber machine, Zogics offers options for every budget.
If you have questions about maintaining rubber flooring or selecting the right products, our customer service team is always here to help.
