Locker-room users worry about fungi, mold

The ideal conditions for the growth of fungi, mold and bacteria are temperatures between 65 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit, humidity and little ventilation.

Or in other words, locker rooms. Add to that steamy environment hundreds of people sharing the same amenities and the potential for contamination increases exponentially. But don’t let that threat keep you from keeping fit.

Instead, practice the following hygiene habits:

Wear shower sandals in the locker room to help avoid athlete’s foot. Before putting shoes back on, dry your feet thoroughly to help wipe off potential fungal contaminants.

Clean your locker regularly with disinfectant. Don’t keep wet towels or sweaty clothing in lockers where they can become moldy.

Use washable gym bags and launder them frequently along with sweaty clothing. Use the hottest wash cycle possible, and bleach which is medically proven to kill bacteria.

Before working out, wipe off gym equipment handles with disinfectant.