Skateboarders know that riding a dirty skateboard is not fun. A dirty board can affect your performance and make your tricks less smooth, and even cause accidents. That’s why we have shared the best guide on how to clean a skateboard like a pro, with some easy DIY cleaning hacks!
I remember when I first got into skateboarding, I was so excited to take my board out for a spin. But after a few weeks of riding, I started to notice that my board was getting pretty dirty. The bottom was covered in grime, the grip tape was losing its stickiness, and the wheels were getting caked with dirt.
I realized I needed to figure out a way to clean dirt out of my skateboard, and fast. After some trial and error, I’ve learned a few cleaning techniques at home that have made all the difference.
And the best part is, cleaning a skateboard at home is actually super easy, and you don’t need any rubber or expensive equipment to get started. In fact, you can even use household items to clean your board! Let’s get into it.
Keeping your skateboard clean is crucial for several reasons, and the benefits of a clean skateboard are truly worth it. Not only will it perform better, but it will also last longer and look way cooler. Here are the facts:
Better performance
Dirt, dust, and grime buildup on your skateboardcan affect your bearings, wheels, and trucks, which can ultimately affect your ride. When your bearings get clogged up, they don’t roll as smoothly, which can make your ride less enjoyable and even slower.
Dirty wheels can also affect your grip and make it harder to control your board. And if your trucks get too dirty, they can become less responsive and affect your turning ability.
Keeping your skateboard clean is also important for its overall lifespan. Dirt and moisture can cause rust to form on metal parts, which can ultimately lead to cracks or other forms of damage.
Plus, if your grip tape loses its stickiness, you’ll have to replace it sooner, which can add up in cost over time.
Aesthetics
Let’s be real, who doesn’t want to show off their awesome ride? A clean skateboard just looks way better than a dirty one. When you take care of your board, it shows that you take pride in your gear and your sport.
And of course, a clean board just looks more professional and impressive, which can give you a boost of confidence when you are out shredding.
What You Need to Clean Your Skateboard
Here’s a quick rundown of everything you’ll need to clean your board like a pro:
Grip Gum
Cleaning Solution
A Soft-bristled Toothbrush
Microfiber Cloth
Rubbing Alcohol
Household Items (such as paper towels, water, and)
How to Clean Your Skateboard: Step-by-Step Guide
Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide on the best ways to clean a skateboard:
Step 1: Start by removing the dirt and debris from your skateboard. Use a clean cloth and grip gum to remove any dirt, grime, or residue from your grip tape, and a toothbrush to clean the dirt off the trucks and wheels.
Step 2: Next, mix a cleaning solution in a bowl. You can make your own solution by mixing water and rubbing alcohol, or you can use a commercial skateboard cleaning solution. I recommend checking out “Bones Skateboard Cleaner” or “Skate Balm”. They’re both great products that are specifically designed for skateboard cleaning.
Make sure to follow the instructions on the label if you are using a commercial solution.
Step 3: Dip your microfiber cloth into the cleaning solution and wring out any excess liquid. You don’t want to oversaturate your skateboard with too much cleaning solution, as this can damage the board.
Step 4: Use the damp cloth to wipe down the skateboard deck, trucks, and wheels. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies to remove any dirt or grime.
Step 5: For stubborn stains or marks on the deck, you can use a toothbrush and a small amount of the cleaning solution to scrub the area clean. Just be careful not to scrub too hard or you might damage the deck.
Step 6: Once you’ve finished cleaning your skateboard, use a dry microfiber cloth to dry off the board, trucks, and wheels.
Step 7: Once all the parts are cleaned and dried, reassemble your skateboard and you are ready to hit the streets!
How To Clean The Bottom Of A Skateboard
Cleaning the bottom of a skateboard is easier than the top of the deck (because it does not have any grip tape). Below are the steps I follow to clean the bottom of the deck:
1. First things first, grab a bowl of warm water and some mild soap. I usually go for dish soap, but any gentle soap will do the trick.
2. Find a flat surface and place your skateboard upside down on it.
3. Take a brush or a dry cloth and remove any loose dirt or debris from the bottom of the skateboard.
4. Using a clean cloth, dip it into the soapy water and gently scrub the bottom of the deck. Be careful not to scrub too hard or you may damage the graphic.
5. Once you’ve scrubbed off all the dirt and grime, rinse the skateboard with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue.
6. Finally, let the board air dry completely before riding it again, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.
After spending years in skateboarding and having a lot of experiences with skateboards, let me share some tips and tricks that I follow to keep my boards in top shape:
Regularly check your bearings and wheels for signs of wear and tear, and replace them when necessary to ensure optimal performance.
Use a wrench to regularly tighten the nuts and bolts on your skateboard. This will prevent them from loosening and causing any accidents while you are riding.
If you plan on storing your skateboard for a while, make sure to remove the wheels to prevent flat spots from forming.
When transporting your skateboard, use a bag or backpackspecifically designed for skateboards to avoid any damage during travel.
Clean your trucks with a toothbrush and some household items, such as dish soap and warm water, to remove any dirt or debris that might affect the turning mechanism.
Consider investing in grip gum to keep your grip tape clean and in good condition.
Don’t leave your board out in the sun for too long, as it can warp the deck and affect its performance.
Avoid riding your skateboard through water or puddles, as it can damage the bearings and wheels.
Keep your skateboard in a dry and cool place, away from moisture and extreme temperatures.
Hopefully, you’ve learned a thing or two about how to clean your skateboard like a pro. With these easy DIY cleaning hacks and a bit of love, you’ll be able to keep your board in tip-top shape for years to come.
So next time you are out shredding the streets, take a moment to appreciate your squeaky clean board and the smooth ride it provides. Don’t forget to regularly clean your skateboard and maintain it like a boss with our helpful tips and tricks. Happy skating!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you clean a skateboard without ruining it?
To clean your skateboard without ruining it, you can use household items like a gentle cleaning solution and a soft-bristled brush, like a toothbrush, to gently scrub away the dirt and grime. Avoid using anything too abrasive that could damage the skateboard’s surface.
Can I wash my skateboard?
Well, technically, yes, you can wash your skateboard. But I wouldn’t recommend it. Water can seep into the bearings and ruin them, and can damage the deck too. It will make the grip tape less effective when wet.
It’s best to stick to dry cleaning methods like using a grip gum or a dry cloth to remove any dirt and debris.
How do you get dirt off a skateboard?
Getting dirt off a skateboard is easy-peasy. All you need is some elbow grease and a cleaning solution. I personally use a mix of warm water and mild dish soap, but you can also use rubbing alcohol or vinegar. Dip a soft-bristled brush into the solution and gently scrub away the dirt. Voila! Good as new.
What household items can I use to clean my skateboard bearings?
If you are in a pinch, you can use household items like rubbing alcohol or any citrus-based cleaner to clean your skateboard bearings. Just make sure to use a small amount and clean them thoroughly afterward to prevent any damage to your bearings.
I got inspired by my father after watching him performing heroic tricks on a skateboard. Started at the age of 8 and performed in multiple competitions, now I coach professionals for tournaments. It's not just a sport for me - more like a passion and meditation! After years of experience with different skateboarding products, here are my reviews about Best Skateboard Brands and Best Skateboard for Beginners. It's an era of technology, you can also check unbiased reviews of Best Electric Skateboards. You can also read Benefits of Skateboarding.
