spring cleaning for runners

If you’re anything like me, the onset of spring heralds the urge to purge, and yes, spring cleaning for runners is part of that to-do list. These days between winter and summer put me in the mindset to clear out cabinets, chip away at closets, and organize the heck out of everything. And once I’m done in the kitchen and closets, I’m turning to my running gear!

Clean Up Your Nutrition

Take a moment to go through your fuel. Check all your expiration dates and discard anything that is past its prime. If you have any nutrition that is still good, but you don’t care for it or it’s not working for you, offer it to a friend or another runner to try.

Sort Your Socks

Do you have a monster who lives in your dryer and steals your socks? I certainly do, and it is not at all kind to my running socks. Go through your socks and weed out any singletons. You can toss them, or wash and repurpose them (wash and use as dust rags for your blinds, fill with rice and sew for a heating pack, etc). The same goes for any socks with holes or other signs of damage. It’s time for them to say goodbye.

Go Through Your Gym Bag

Yes, just dump the whole thing out and get to work. You’ll want to wash and sanitize the bag itself. Make sure you’ve got it stocked with fresh towels and clean accessories. Defunk your yoga mat and wipe down your resistance bands. Remove anything you don’t need and replace anything that needs it.

Check Your Sports Bras

Sports bras are expensive and we all want them to live forever, offering comfort and support. The truth is, sports bras should never see their first birthday. They just aren’t made for it. Even with the best care and most careful laundering, the spandex gives, the seams pull, and they stop doing their intended job. Do the hard work

Weed Out Your Water Bottles

We probably all have too many reusable water bottles, and now is a good time to go through them. Make sure you have all the lids, straws, and accessories. Check for chips and cracks and also for signs of mold and deterioration. Hydration is such an important part of your routine, so be sure that everything is on point!

Review Your Shoes (and Insoles)

Again, despite their price point, running shoes have a shelf life. Every shoe is different, but six months is pretty much the upper limit of running shoe effectiveness. Check the soles for wear and tear. Look for holes, and blown out cushion. Donate your old shoes to your local running store, or retire them to use for dog walking or lawn care day. Your feet (and body) will thank you.

Cull Those Old Race Shirts

Oh, the memories! Yes, I have a ton of race shirts. No, I don’t wear them all. Sometimes, they don’t fit right, or they’re not comfortable, or they’re just not my color or style. I struggle with the sentimental value, so this is a great time to have them made into a quilt or blanket. If you are ok with letting them go, entirely, donating is a great option.

Clear Out Any Negative Vibes

That’s right! We’re cleaning out all those old, destructive, counter-productive thoughts. Do not, for one moment, hold on to the mindsets that no longer serve you.

Overhaul Your Playlist

Let’s get a fresh take by changing up some of your best hype music! Sure, you’ll have some old favorites that need to stay, but there’s always new music to rev your engine. Take some time to go through your tunes to really optimize your song choices.

What are your best spring cleaning tips for runners?

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