Keeping a treadmill running smoothly depends on using the right maintenance supplies and following the procedures outlined in your owner’s manual. While many accessories are available, the specific items your machine needs, from lubricant to cleaning cloths, are determined by its design. This guide walks through what several treadmill manuals call for, so you can gather the correct supplies before you begin.
Lubrication Supplies and Application
One of the biggest differences between treadmill models is whether they require lubrication. The Spirit CT800 owner’s manual explicitly states, “Do not apply any type of lubricant or wax to the surface.” The Philips ReActiv Treadmill 4.0 T user manual gives the same warning: “Do not apply any type of lubricant or wax to the surface.” Both decks are designed to be low-maintenance and rely on routine cleaning instead.
Other treadmills do need periodic lubrication. The Spirit XT285 manual instructs users to lubricate the deck with a Spirit Fitness approved lubricant. It says the belt and deck come pre-lubricated and that subsequent lubrication should be performed every 180 hours of use or if the deck feels dry. The manual describes applying a line of silicone lubricant about 1/8 inch wide and 15 inches long in an “S” pattern under the belt, 18 inches from the motor cover, on both sides. After applying, you walk on the belt at a moderate speed for five minutes to distribute the lubricant. The console includes a lubrication reminder that lights after 180 hours, and the manual explains how to reset it through the engineering menu.
The UPLIFT Desk inclining walking pad instructions note that the pad is pre-lubricated from the factory and should only be lubricated with 100% silicone lubricant, avoiding aerosol silicone sprays that contain additives and petroleum distillates. It provides a schedule: light use (less than 3 hours per week) once a year, medium use (3 to 5 hours per week) every 6 months, and heavy use (more than 5 hours per week) every 3 months. The inSPORTline ZenRun Fold 20 manual also recommends silicone oil and gives a similar schedule: light users every 6 months, medium users every 3 months, and heavy users every 2 months. It advises applying oil to the center of the belt and then walking slowly to spread it evenly.
Because lubrication requirements differ so much, the safest approach is to check your own manual. Using the wrong lubricant or lubricating a deck that is designed to run dry can damage the belt and deck. For more on this topic, see our article on treadmill lubrication.
Tools for Belt Tension and Tracking
Most treadmills come with the tools needed to adjust belt tension and tracking. The Spirit CT800 and Philips ReActiv 4.0 T manuals both include an 8 mm Allen wrench for these adjustments. The Spirit XT285 manual provides a 6 mm Allen wrench. The UPLIFT Desk walking pad includes an Allen wrench for belt tensioning and alignment. The inSPORTline ZenRun Fold 20 manual does not list a specific tool but describes turning adjustment bolts at the rear of the treadmill.
Belt tension adjustments typically involve turning the rear roller bolts a quarter turn at a time, checking for slippage by walking on the belt. The CT800 manual warns not to over-tighten, as that can cause belt damage and premature bearing failure. Tracking adjustments are made on one side only: the CT800 and Philips manuals say to set the belt speed to 3 mph and turn the left bolt a quarter turn clockwise if the belt drifts left, or counterclockwise if it drifts right, waiting a few minutes for the belt to settle. The XT285 manual uses the same procedure with a 6 mm wrench. The UPLIFT walking pad instructions describe a similar method: if the belt is to the right, turn the right adjusting bolt a quarter turn clockwise; if to the left, turn the left bolt clockwise. The inSPORTline manual uses a slightly different approach, turning the right bolt clockwise and the left bolt counterclockwise to move the belt right, and vice versa.
Because small adjustments can make a big difference, manuals consistently advise making only quarter-turn changes and then testing. For a deeper look at belt care, visit our guide on treadmill belt tension, tracking and wear.
Cleaning Cloths and What to Avoid
Regular cleaning is a universal requirement, but the supplies you use matter. The Spirit CT800 manual recommends a soft, damp cloth or paper towel to wipe the edge of the belt and the area between the belt edge and frame. For the textured belt surface, it suggests a mild soap and water solution with a nylon scrub brush, then letting the belt dry before use. The Philips ReActiv 4.0 T manual says to use water only, no cleaners or abrasives, on the belt edge, and a mild soap and water solution with a nylon brush for the top of the belt. The Spirit XT285 manual advises using a clean, non-fraying rag, t-shirt, or light towel to clean between the belt and deck before lubrication.
The UPLIFT Desk walking pad instructions say to clean the running belt surface with a soapy damp cloth and to sweep exposed portions of the belt to minimize buildup underneath. The inSPORTline ZenRun Fold 20 manual recommends a soft cotton cloth and a non-aggressive detergent, warning never to use cleaning agents based on alcohol or petrol. The CDC’s guidance on home cleaning emphasizes that cleaning with soap and water removes most germs, and that disinfecting is generally not needed unless someone in the household is sick. If you do disinfect, the CDC says to clean first, use an EPA-registered product, and follow contact time instructions.
The Spirit CT800 manual also allows sanitizing hard plastic surfaces with a 75% isopropyl alcohol solution, applied with a clean, dry cloth. All manuals stress unplugging the treadmill before any cleaning or maintenance. Dust, pet hair, and debris can block air inlets, so several manuals recommend vacuuming under and around the treadmill monthly, and occasionally removing the motor cover to vacuum inside (only after unplugging). For step-by-step cleaning instructions, see our article on how to clean a treadmill.
Safety First: Unplug and Use the Safety Key
Each of these manuals emphasizes unplugging the power cord before cleaning, lubricating, or inspecting the machine. The UPLIFT Desk instructions state, “Always unplug the motorized Walking Pad before cleaning or maintaining the product.” The Spirit and Philips manuals include similar warnings. This simple step prevents accidental starts and electrical hazards.
Most full-size treadmills come with a safety key or tether cord that stops the belt when pulled. The CT800, Philips, and XT285 manuals all reference the tether cord as a critical safety feature. They advise attaching the cord to your clothing during use and removing the key when the treadmill is not in use to prevent children from starting it. The UPLIFT walking pad does not have a safety key but instructs users to unplug the unit when not in use. Keeping children and pets away from the equipment is a consistent warning across all manuals. Additionally, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission encourages owners to check for recalls at cpsc.gov/recalls and to report safety concerns at SaferProducts.gov. For more on safety accessories, read our article on treadmill safety keys and accessories.
Putting It Together: A Maintenance Supplies Checklist
Based on the instructions found in these manuals, a typical home maintenance kit might include the following supplies. Always confirm with your own manual before using any product.
- Soft, lint-free cloths or paper towels
- Mild soap (dish soap) and water
- Nylon scrub brush (for textured belts)
- Vacuum cleaner with a crevice tool
- Allen wrench (size specified in your manual, often 6 mm or 8 mm)
- 100% silicone lubricant or manufacturer-approved lubricant (only if your manual calls for it)
- Isopropyl alcohol solution (if your manual permits sanitizing; the Spirit CT800 manual allows a 75% isopropyl alcohol solution on hard plastic surfaces)
Remember that some decks, like those on the CT800 and Philips 4.0 T, are designed to run without any lubricant or wax. Using these supplies incorrectly can void your warranty. For a broader look at keeping your treadmill in good shape, visit our treadmill maintenance section. You can also explore the full range of related products in our maintenance supplies category, part of the larger treadmill accessories area, and read our treadmill accessories guide for an overview of what is worth getting.
Frequently asked questions
Do all treadmills need lubrication?
No. Manuals like the Spirit CT800 and Philips ReActiv 4.0 T explicitly say not to apply any lubricant or wax. Other models, such as the Spirit XT285 and UPLIFT walking pad, require periodic lubrication with a specific type of silicone lubricant. Always check your owner’s manual.
What should I use to clean the belt?
Most manuals recommend a soft, damp cloth with water or a mild soap solution. The Philips manual says to use water only on the belt edge, while the CT800 and XT285 manuals allow a mild soap and nylon brush for the textured top surface. Avoid abrasive cleaners, alcohol, or petroleum-based products.
Can I use an extension cord with my treadmill?
Several manuals, including those from Spirit and Philips, warn against using an extension cord. If one must be used, they specify it should be as short as possible and at least 16-gauge heavy duty. However, the safest practice is to plug the treadmill directly into a grounded outlet on a dedicated circuit, as recommended by the manufacturer.
For more information on choosing the right supplies and accessories, browse our treadmill maintenance supplies category page.
