How To Clean Your Treadmill Belt

Maintaining your home gym equipment is essential for its longevity and performance, particularly when it comes to your treadmill. Over the years, one thing I’ve noticed is just how infrequently people pay attention to this issue. One of the most crucial aspects of treadmill maintenance is ensuring that the belt – the heart of the treadmill’s operation – remains clean and functional. 

Don’t underestimate the problems with a dirty belt. Over time this dirt can make its way into the motor carriage and gunk up your machine. Also, those little specks of dust, if caught between the belt and deck, will produce friction that causes grindage on both. A dirty belt simply won’t last as long. In my reviews of customer complaints over the years, it seems to me that people who have the most problems are those who never clean their treadmill belts.

If you don’t clean your treadmill belt regularly, all that dust can wind up in your motor hood. Photo by Jessica Jones

1. Unplugging for Safety

Before diving into the cleaning process, your number one priority should be safety. Unplugging the treadmill is a critical preventive measure to avoid any electrical mishaps. It’s the first and most straightforward step, but its importance cannot be overstated. Once the power is disconnected, you’ll have the peace of mind to thoroughly and safely clean your treadmill belt. In my experience, this is especially important if you have children or pets around. 

2. Choosing the Right Tools and Cleansers

When it comes to cleaning the treadmill belt, using a soft cloth or towel along with a gentle cleanser is key. The ideal concoction is a homemade solution of warm water and mild detergent, which effectively dissolves dirt without harming the belt’s material. My advice is to avoid any petroleum-based products or hard chemical cleaners as they’ll eat away at the belt. Typically, I find dirt and pet fuzz to be the most common problems on a belt, so a gentle cleanser is good to go.

Avoiding abrasive cleaners is non-negotiable, as they can cause unsightly scratches or worn patches on the belt. Additionally, a damp cloth – not a soaking wet one – will protect the underlying electrical components from water damage. It’s a delicate balance between thorough cleaning and preserving the integrity of your treadmill.

• Use microfiber cloths for their high absorbency and soft texture.
• Mix a solution of warm water with a few drops of mild detergent for a DIY cleaner.
• Gently scrub the belt, ensuring not to press too hard and damage the surface.

Use a soft cloth to scrub down your treadmill belt. Photo by Brian Boyce

3. Post-Cleaning Care

Once your belt has been wiped down with your cleaner, thoroughly wiping to remove any soap residue is just as crucial. Only after the belt is completely clean and dry should you contemplate using the treadmill again. Skipping this step could result in slip hazards or the decreased efficacy of the belt.

Make sure the belt is fully air-dried, which could take a good few hours. Resist the urge to speed up the process by placing the belt in direct sunlight or near heating appliances, as doing so could damage the belt.

How Often Should You Clean A Treadmill Belt?

The frequency of cleaning a treadmill belt largely depends on its usage. However, as a rule of thumb, you should aim to clean the belt at least monthly. If your workout routines are daily or you share the treadmill, stepping up the routine to weekly cleanings might be necessary. In your cleaning routine, it’s a good idea to include vacuuming around the treadmill belt and deck areas.