Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a very contagious superbug that wreaks havoc on anyone in close contact with others, from sports teams, athletic departments, and gyms, to children, military personnel, medical workers, and people living in crowded areas. It causes serious infections and is resistant to many antibiotics. Whether you’re hitting the gym, playing sports or just heading to class, vigilant hygiene and a non-bleach disinfectant like Clear Gear is critical to avoid MRSA infections.
Here are five key tips to protect yourself and others against MRSA.
1. Clean & Disinfect Your Gear Regularly
Gyms and athletic facilities are often packed with people, and sports and gym equipment often harbor harmful bacteria like MRSA–which creates the perfect storm for a nasty outbreak. Sweaty clothing, pads, mats, and other gear create a warm, moist environment that create ideal conditions for bacterial growth. To prevent the spread of infection, clean your gear and spray it with Clear Gear sports disinfectant after every single use.
2. Shower Immediately After Workouts or Practice
It’s essential to shower immediately after a workout or game to reduce the risk of MRSA infection. Bacteria like MRSA can easily transfer from equipment to your skin. Use an antibacterial soap or body wash that is effective against staph bacteria, and be thorough about washing areas prone to sweating. Don’t sit on the benches in locker rooms and get dressed as soon as possible, though it’s also important to dry off completely before putting on clean clothes, as moisture contributes to bacterial growth.
3. Don’t Share Personal Items
Never use anyone else’s personal items, like towels, water bottles, soap or other gear—and don’t let anyone else yours! While it’s common in team sports to share protective gear and other items, this significantly increases the risk of spreading MRSA. Personal items easily collect bacteria from the skin and then transfer them to another person. Spray shared equipment like gym weights, benches and mats with a non-bleach disinfectant spray before and after use to kill any germs left behind by others.
4. Use a Non-Bleach Disinfectant on Shared & Personal Equipment
A regular cleaning routine is essential, but it’s even more important to choose the right disinfectant. While bleach is powerful, it can damage–and even destroy–sports gear, clothing, shoes, and equipment. Clear Gear is bleach-free but kills 99.9% of germs and is effective at eliminating MRSA, making it safer and better for both deep and routine cleaning. Many sports and gym equipment surfaces, such as leather, foam, or plastic, will degrade over time with bleach. A non-bleach disinfectant preserves the quality of these materials while still eliminating harmful bacteria. Clear Gear is perfect for frequent use and won’t leave noxious fumes behind.
5. Cover Cuts and Scrapes
Open wounds or broken skin can act as an entry point for MRSA bacteria. If you have a scrape or cut, clean it thoroughly and cover it with a dry bandage before engaging in any activity. Be sure to change bandages regularly, especially if they get wet or dirty. This simple precaution can help block the bacteria from entering your bloodstream and causing an infection.
Using Clear Gear non-bleach disinfectant is essential for maintaining the integrity of your sports equipment and protecting your health. Since MRSA can survive on surfaces for hours or even days, keeping gear clean is your first line of defense. Using an athletic gear disinfectant like Clear Gear ensures that your sportswear, athletic equipment, and gym surfaces remain undamaged, making your gear last longer and staying MRSA-free.
