Regularly going to the gym can have amazing health benefits as well as help you achieve your goals and aspirations. It's also a confidence booster if you think about it. One key element in a gym-goers life is a gym bag. And your gym bag can trap lots of dirt and debris, not to mention germs. Here's how to regularly clean your gym bag so you can acheive your highest results without worrying about a dirty bag.

1. Empty and Air Out Your Gym Bag Daily

After every workout, remove all items from your gym bag, including clothes, shoes, towels, and water bottles. This prevents moisture buildup, which can lead to bacteria and odor. Leave your bag open in a well-ventilated area to air out and dry completely before your next use.

If you are a fan of a great scent, after you air out your gym bag you can also throw some bag scent balls into your gym bag.

Store sweaty clothes and shoes in separate, washable pouches or antimicrobial liners to prevent bacteria and odor from spreading inside your bag. Mesh or ventilated bags for shoes help reduce moisture buildup, and waterproof compartments can keep wet towels from soaking other items.

You can opt for small waterproof liners like Ornadi on Amazon. These liners help with bacteria reduction as well as reduce the odor coming from your sweaty clothes and gymwear. If you like to keep your sweaty shoes outside your bag there are handy clips that allow just that.

At least once a week, wipe down the interior and exterior of your bag with disinfectant wipes or a mild soap solution. If your bag is machine-washable, follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions for a deep clean. Don’t forget to clean the zippers and pockets where dirt and germs can accumulate.

To prevent bad smells, place odor-absorbing items like activated charcoal pouches, baking soda sachets, or dryer sheets in your gym bag. Essential oil-infused cotton balls can also add a fresh scent while naturally neutralizing bacteria.

Avoid leaving your gym bag in dark, damp places like the trunk of your car or a closed locker for long periods. Store it in a dry, cool area with good airflow to prevent mold and mildew growth. If possible, hang your bag instead of leaving it on the floor to avoid dirt and bacteria buildup.