If you've ever set up a home gym, you know the sweet smell of accomplishment that comes with it. But sometimes, that scent gets a bit more pungent when rubber coated weight plates are involved.
Are they worth it, you wonder? And more importantly, do they stink up your precious workout space? Let's dive into the world of rubber coated weight plates and sniff out the truth!
Are Rubber Coated Weight Plates Good?
Ah, the age-old question. Rubber coated weight plates: are they friends or foes in the iron game?
Well, let me tell you, they're like that trusty sidekick who's always got your back. These plates offer a myriad of benefits that make them a must-have for any home gym aficionado.
Durability
Rubber coated weight plates are built to last. They can take a beating without flinching, which means you can slam them down after a grueling set of deadlifts without worrying about damage.
Floor Protection
Say goodbye to unsightly dents and scratches on your gym floor. The rubber coating provides a protective layer that keeps both your plates and your floor looking fresh.
Noise Reduction
Noisy clangs and bangs? Not with rubber coated plates. They dampen the sound, giving you a more serene lifting experience (well, as serene as lifting heavy weights can get).
Grip
Ever tried lifting a slippery metal plate? Not fun, my friend. Rubber coated plates offer a better grip, so you can focus on crushing your workout instead of struggling to hold onto your weights.
Shameless plug: We did kinda sort out that whole grip issue with the Mighty Grip Iron Plates. But that’s not the point here. 😉
Do Rubber Coated Weight Plates Smell?
Now, onto the million-dollar question: do rubber coated weight plates come with an unwanted aroma? The short answer: sometimes.
You see, rubber has a distinct smell, especially when it's fresh out of the factory. But fear not, dear gym rat, for there are ways to combat the stench and reclaim your nostrils.
What Causes the Smell?
Rubber coated weight plates emit an odor due to the materials used in their production. This smell can range from mildly unpleasant to "hold your breath or you might pass out" levels, depending on the brand and manufacturing process.
How to Get Rid of the Smell of Rubber Weight Plates
- Air It Out - Let your rubber coated weight plates bask in the fresh air for a few days. Set them up in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors, and let nature work its magic.
- Cleanse with Vinegar - Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and spritz your plates generously. Wipe them down with a clean cloth, and voila! The vinegar helps neutralize odors, leaving your plates smelling as fresh as a daisy.
- Baking Soda Bath - Generously sprinkle baking soda over and around your plates. Rinse thoroughly and marvel at the odor-free goodness.
- Activated Charcoal - Place activated charcoal pouches near your plates to absorb any lingering odors. It's like magic, but for stinky weights.
Other Considerations
Before you go banishing rubber coated weight plates from your home gym, consider these additional factors:
- Brand Matters - Some brands use higher quality materials and manufacturing processes, resulting in less odor. Do your research before making a purchase.
- Material Matters - The type of rubber used also plays a role in the odor. For example, our Urethane Coated Plates are odorless from day one. All Black Bumpers are low-smell. And our ultra-affordable Crumb Bumpers? They could use a day or two to breathe. Like cheap wine, minus the headache.
- Storage - Proper storage can also help mitigate odor buildup. Keep your plates in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight to prevent funky smells from taking root.
- Patience is Key - Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is a stench-free home gym. Be patient, give your plates some time to air out, and soon enough, you'll be breathing easy during your workouts.
So, there you have it, folks. Rubber-coated weight plates: the good, the bad, and the smelly. With a little patience and elbow grease, you can enjoy all the benefits of these versatile plates without holding your nose. Now go forth and lift, my friends, for gains await!
