How to restore rubber dumbbells, home gym essentials

⏬ Products I used ⏬
Johnson's Baby Oil (amzn.to/39rpYu8)
Scrub Brush 2 pack (amzn.to/3HmNDsf)
Dewalt cordless drill (amzn.to/3g2VM7L)
Nylon brush attachment set (amzn.to/3JNGMYN)
CERAKOTE Ceramic Trim Coat Kit (amzn.to/3MT2QCc)
Mothers Back-to-Black Trim & Plastic Restorer (amzn.to/3xOXns6)
Chemical Guys Tire and Trim Gel (amzn.to/3xRhx4z)
3-IN-ONE Multi-Purpose Oil (amzn.to/3Hwoxas)
303 Aerospace Protectant (amzn.to/3y0PkbT)
WD-40 Lubricant Spray (amzn.to/3mLN3e0)
⏬ Equipment I use in my gym ⏬
REP Omni 6 post power rack - repfitness.com/collections/racks/products/omni-build-your-own-rack#a_aid=61e7125884bf7&a_bid=11110007
REP AB4100 - repfitness.com/products/ab-4100-adjustable-weight-bench#a_aid=61e7125884bf7&a_bid=11110007
REP 5-50 hex dumbbell set - repfitness.com/collections/dumbbells/products/rubber-hex-dumbbell-sets#a_aid=61e7125884bf7&a_bid=11110007
Fringe Sport Savage bumper plate set - shrsl.com/3iaj3
Fringe Sport floor mounted power cage - shrsl.com/3iaj9
Bells of Steel Mighty Grip plates - bellsofsteel.postaffiliatepro.com/scripts/uhm383wxc?a_aid=Kaizen&a_bid=11110007&desturl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bellsofsteel.us%2Fall-products%2Fweight-plates%2Firon-plates%2Fcast-iron-weight-plate%2F
Titan Fitness short wall mounted pulley tower - titan-fitness.pxf.io/P0dk3e
Titan Fitness rackable trap bar - titan-fitness.pxf.io/VyDVrO
Bells of Steel arch nemesis multi-grip camber bar - bellsofsteel.postaffiliatepro.com/scripts/uhm383wxc?a_aid=Kaizen&a_bid=11110007&desturl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bellsofsteel.us%2Fall-products%2Fbarbells%2Fspecialty-barbells%2Fswiss-bar%2F
Bells of Steel blue cerakote utility bar - bellsofsteel.postaffiliatepro.com/scripts/uhm383wxc?a_aid=Kaizen&a_bid=11110007&desturl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bellsofsteel.us%2Fall-products%2Fbarbells%2Fbars%2Fcerakote-barbell%2F
Bells of Steel SS3 safety squat bar - bellsofsteel.postaffiliatepro.com/scripts/uhm383wxc?a_aid=Kaizen&a_bid=11110007&desturl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bellsofsteel.us%2Fall-products%2Fbest-sellers%2Fpremium-safety-squat-bar%2F
Abmat Preacher Pad - abmat.com/#a_aid=kaizendiygym
Abmat Hip Thrust Pad - abmat.com/#a_aid=kaizendiygym
Consider supporting Kaizen DIY Gym by purchasing from the following links:
Rogue Fitness (www.kaizendiygym.com/links)
REP Fitness (repfitness.com/#61e7125884bf7)
Fringe Sport (shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=720665&u=3114099&m=58883&urllink=&afftrack=)
Titan Fitness (titan-fitness.pxf.io/a1G6qM)
AbMat (abmat.com/#a_aid=kaizendiygym)
Raptor Fitness (www.coloradostrengthequipment.com/?rfsn=6249731.29804c1&.29804c1)
Bells of Steel (www.bellsofsteel.com/#a_aid=Kaizen)
Plate Snacks (platesnacks.com?aff=36)
Bowflex (www.bowflex.com/default?irgwc=1&adID=DFBAFFIMPACT&clickid=07ezyzy%3AcxyIRKvUKR0Wux9JUkGyFsR-8WOqUM0)
Nautilus & Schwinn (www.nautilus.com/default?adID=SDFSAFFIMPACT&clickid=07ezyzy%3AcxyIRKvUKR0Wux9JUkGyFsUf8WOqUM0&irgwc=1&)
Amazon (www.amazon.com?&_encoding=UTF8&tag=7143506281-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=41ca63fd5d4261a73bb1d9731360bb50&camp=1789&creative=9325)
Home Depot (homedepot.sjv.io/OR4R0A)
International Tool (www.internationaltool.com/shop/?cjevent=046ffd2c7eb011ec831300830a82b838&publisher=Kaizen+Woodworks)
Woodcraft (www.woodcraft.com/?cjevent=f912551a7eaf11ec831700700a82b836&)
Ace Hardware (www.acehardware.com/?irclickid=X7sV0ly%3AKxyIWK5xohX8yQxrUkGyFs1H8WOqUM0&irgwc=1&Affiliate&Impact&)
Acme Tools (www.acmetools.com/?irclickid=V88RHay%3AKxyIWov1y2z3fUBDUkGyFszP8WOqUM0&irgwc=1&Affiliates&)
The Tool Nut (www.toolnut.com/?irclickid=3gkSnUVo7xyLUaPzIsWNFScqUkGyFs2v8WOqUM0&irgwc=1&)
This video is not sponsored. Some of the links are affiliates which means if you purchase through the link, I’ll receive a small commission.
Do you have an idea for my next build? Leave a comment below!
If you build this, I’d love to see it! Tag #kaizendiygym on Instagram and I’ll feature it on my page!
kaizendiygym
@kaizendiygym
#kaizendiygym #diygym #homegym

[@calcifires]

Cool experiment, thanks for showing us how to do this! You put in the time to get those dumbbells looking nice and it really paid off.

[@KaizenDIYGym]

It was a lot of trial and error but totally worth it!

[@reginaldchesterfield8110]

Thanks soooo much, i had this problem as well and tried the tire shine product, worked like a charm, its weeks now and it still looks perfect.

[@KaizenDIYGym]

That’s great. Mine still look good too.

[@pawpurrtraitor]

Thanks, having the same problem with the same dumbbells. Gonna get a scrubber attachment and try this with a dashboard coating liquid!

[@KaizenDIYGym]

After about six month they’re starting to get that white coloring back. Just be aware that you may have to go through this process from time to time to keep them looking new.

[@pawpurrtraitor]

@@KaizenDIYGym Thanks for the info!

[@tasospapadopoulos7671]

Thank you my friend!! I tried mothers back to black and my dumbebells are fresh as new!! Thank youu again!!

[@KaizenDIYGym]

Awesome, glad to hear it!

[@DesignBuildLift]

They look brand new!!!

[@KaizenDIYGym]

It’s really amazing. I honestly thought I was screwed when I first heard about the Rep issue.

[@redwhiteandblueblood]

Nice man, luckily most of my dumbbells came coated in 3n1 or something so the older ones seem to be fine even a year or 2 on, will like and check out a few more of your vids Another problem I noticed though was with some of my heavier dumbbells had cracks/chips in the rubber which was obviously manufacturing defects when whoever cuts/trims the rubber in the factories may not have done the best job, so I find the odd edge being cracked. 1 of my new 40kg dumbbells had this, so I put some adhesive on the crack then I compressed it down with plates/the other 40kg dumbbell and leave it until my next chest workout

[@KaizenDIYGym]

There are all sorts of issues like that when supply is low and demand is high. Manufacturers are just in a hurry to get them out the door.

[@redwhiteandblueblood]

@@KaizenDIYGym yeah That particular glue wasn't too effective in the end Bought a new bottle of a different brand, way way stronger, didn't need to compress it either, sealed up almost instantly

[@jonasdecreus603]

This is great! Thank you for your research

[@KaizenDIYGym]

Hey! I am glad you enjoyed the video!

[@David__F_]

It’s been 10 months. How have they been holding up?? I’m curious. Just bought some rubber dumbbells myself. Thank you for the video 🙌🙌

[@KaizenDIYGym]

Yes, I still need to make a follow up. They’re still looking good. Not the same as day 1 but also no need to touch them up just yet

[@David__F_]

@@KaizenDIYGym I appreciate the reply 🙌 glad to hear

[@deepsome3887]

OCD enters the chat

[@gamemasteryt99]

That's why I'm here

[@memolibir]

Thx for the video 🦾

[@KaizenDIYGym]

Thank you for always watching and supporting!

[@bastipear2864]

If I ever obtain nice rubber dumbbells, I'll try this trick

[@KaizenDIYGym]

Awesome!

[@carps_gym]

Wonder if it also works on older virgin rubber bumpers

[@KaizenDIYGym]

I’d be willing to bet it works

[@steveoake2901]

Did you ever get around to posting the 6-month follow-up video. I was looking through the playlist for it but was unable to locate it.

[@KaizenDIYGym]

I talk about them at the beginning of this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rKimlqt_p6yFiZI

[@todd7148]

I just inject my dumbells with some leftover Trenbolone and they appear to double in size and look brand new again.

[@jaimeortizfmsd]

Great content as always Kyle! Gonna order those ceramic wipes with your link right now! Thanks. Also, do you think 1 package of the wipes is enough for a full 5-100 set of rep dumbbells?

[@KaizenDIYGym]

Thanks Jamie! I’d order 2 sets of the wipes for a set that large. I used 9 wipes on my 5-50 set.

[@chuckiep268]

As long as it’s a oil and not a solvent long term their should be no harm.

[@KaizenDIYGym]

Gotcha, good to know! I should have consulted with you while making this video!

[@montanaplease]

I am beginning to think that there’s only actually may be two manufactures of these hex dumbbells and just different companies have a manufacturer put their names on them. So basically, you’re just paying for the name. Price the CAP brand then price the Rogue brand😳

[@KaizenDIYGym]

I’m pretty sure the Rogue dumbbells are made in the US, while Rep and most of the other guys are made overseas.

[@GraysonCarr]

Dang, that’s a lot of work and mess to have to deal with every couple years. I decided to just get urethane dumbbells since they’re supposed to hold up and stay looking new much longer than rubber. Luckily I only need 5-30 lbs, because a full set would be prohibitively expensive compared to rubber.

[@KaizenDIYGym]

That’s a great alternative. It is a bit of a pain to continually clean these dumbbells

[@World36599]

Every couple of years you give them a rub and they're fine. Small job, not a big deal at all.

[@jmckenzie07]

​@@KaizenDIYGym how are they holding up after time?

[@tonyh6438]

I bought six 45 rubber plates at GNG new and one of them keep turning white. I wipe it down in four days is white again.

[@KaizenDIYGym]

Try the cerakote wipes

[@tonyh6438]

@@KaizenDIYGym thanks I will

[@patrickstar1439]

The haze might return when the product wears off. I would have degreased them and sprayed with black dupli color vinyl fabric paint .

[@KaizenDIYGym]

It’s been 6 or 7 months now and they’re still looking pretty good. I’d say the wipes were a decent option.

[@shaun4928]

This video is legit - thanks for sharing! I pretty sure I have the same poorly designed batch. I showed rep when I first received these and they claimed it to be cosmetic and ignored it. Did they changed their stance since that?

[@KaizenDIYGym]

I honestly don’t know. After I posted this video they said “good job” and I haven’t heard anything since.

[@shaun4928]

@@KaizenDIYGym thanks man

[@shaun4928]

@@KaizenDIYGym do you have a video on how you made your db rack?

[@josereid2796]

Hello, how long did the mothers gel hold up? Do you prefer the ceramic wipes which ones lasted longer I’m trying to go with the best option that will last the longest

[@KaizenDIYGym]

I used the ceramic wipes on everything, but sadly, the dumbbells are already starting to fade and need any other coat. Mothers might be a better route.

[@jennbauer9994]

So what was the result after 6 months? I just bought a set of new ones 5 to 30 lb. We had to remove them from my house, the smell was unbearable downstairs. Any suggestion on getting rid of the smell of new ones?

[@KaizenDIYGym]

It’s actually been about two years and they still look great. For the smell, I’d suggest leaving them outside for a few days. If that doesn’t get rid of the smell, do it for longer. That smell will go away eventually

[@jakstables6491]

Silicone spray 5 bux 👌😊

[@vtecn8ive]

Any updates on how the restoration products held up a year later? :)

[@KaizenDIYGym]

I probably won’t make a video about it but they still look great. I haven’t had the need to touch them up at all.

[@vtecn8ive]

​@@KaizenDIYGymdid you end up using one brand on all of them? I saw you had used different techniques. Curious which brand you ended up finishing the majority with? (Also I liked and subscribed, was already following you on IG)

[@kavstagh]

Did this stop the rubber from deteriorating? I’ve had my dumbbells for 3 years (different brand) and the rubber is leaving marks on my clothes. I wondered if the gel helped limit it

[@KaizenDIYGym]

It preserved the dumbbells pretty well. I show the dumbbells two years after in this video - kzbin.info/www/bejne/rKimlqt_p6yFiZI

[@JB-po3rb]

Dumbbells must be dirty.......... Sweat, dust and immersed in blood ......... 😆😆😆😆💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪

[@KaizenDIYGym]

Of course! That is the way of the manly men!

[@Leightontipping]

What would you recommend on Jordan rubber flooring? I bought a batch which are in awful condition. I turned them upside down because the top is horrific (used mats). I want the shiny/restored look.. but will the gel make them slippery? Thanks for the videos 👍

[@KaizenDIYGym]

The gel won’t make them slippery after it dries. That’s probably your best bet.

[@blackisblack22]

What about the rubber smell? Any suggestions to get rid of it?

[@KaizenDIYGym]

Time is the only cure. Let them sit out in a well ventilated area for a while. It’ll eventually go away.

[@ikhwansalaffy5152]

Is there an update after six months? Which brand do you think is the best?

[@KaizenDIYGym]

I used the cerakote wipes for all of the dumbbells and it is still holding up well. I haven’t had the need to touch up at all

[@ryanabood402]

I was doing some TLC on my dumbbells this weekend; is the best answer still the ceramic wipes or are we thinking it’s a quick wipe down with the Mothers every 6 months? I’m also going to try the brush and 3-1 on some light handle rust tomorrow.

[@KaizenDIYGym]

It’s been 8 months and they’re still good to go. I haven’t needed to touch them up at all since making the video. I do think that Mothers is a good options as well though if you’d rather go that route.

[@KaizenDIYGym]

It’s been 8 months and they’re still good to go. I haven’t needed to touch them up at all since making the video. I do think that Mothers is a good options as well though if you’d rather go that route.

[@ryanabood402]

@@KaizenDIYGym Thanks a ton Kyle. I’ll return my unused bottle of 303 tomorrow, like you, before I found my your video, figured that the 303 would be the secret weapon. You saved me a ton of time. I could do 3 sets of Mothers in the time I could do one set of the ceramic wipes… plus, I don’t want to carry 2100 pounds to the garage if I don’t have to! 🤣

[@adrianbillionaire]

Do you think any of these will work on rubber weight plates? I bought a few from Rep, and some have a white film on them. Thinking about tire spray.

[@KaizenDIYGym]

Yeah I think so

[@aldobruno712]

are the numbers printed in the weights in kg or lb ?

[@KaizenDIYGym]

Mine are in pounds

[@Sean-Salter]

Did this make them slippery? I’ve got some rubber plates that need a cleaning but I don’t want them to slippery to grip.

[@KaizenDIYGym]

Initially, yes but that wore off after a while

[@achu717]

what did you pay for this 5-50lbs set ?

[@KaizenDIYGym]

I think it was around $700

[@achu717]

@@KaizenDIYGym I am getting a same set from Craigslist at same price. It’s a winner. Same deal, It has rust and dusty dirty. I need to invest some loving and care. Great deal for today market. Thanks. Please update your rubber applications 6 months results. I need to do the same. Thank you

[@opticwiddly5263]

Mineral oil?

[@KaizenDIYGym]

Didn’t try it. Not a bad idea for the next video

[@Mexi99]

Those wipes work well but holy crap do they stink. Hurt my head for almost 2 days. Def wear a mask and gloves

[@KaizenDIYGym]

Very true, super strong chemical smell!

[@Mexi99]

@@KaizenDIYGym yea.... i didn't even bother finishing. That smell really got me LOL Going to have to find another solution.

[@prod.image86]

Black leather restorer might have done the trick 🤔

[@JDM_PLUS]

Where is the follow up?

[@KaizenDIYGym]

Great question. This video pretty much bombed so I never made a follow up. Just so you know, the cerakote is still holding up well. It’s been over a year and I haven’t needed to touch them up.

[@JDM_PLUS]

@@KaizenDIYGym thank you.

[@YourIRLFriend]

hey Kaizen, I recently bought 300lbs of rubber coated halter plates for my home gym, and they small awful! is there any sort of spray that you could recommend? or perhaps some other solution? anything to save me from this smell xD

[@KaizenDIYGym]

I don’t know of a fix for the smell other than just letting them air out and over time the smell will go away. Stall mats have a similar issue. I think heat and sunshine help if you can leave them outside for a few days or a week.