Did you know that it’s recommended to clean your skateboard at least once a week to prevent germs from spreading? Cleaning may not always be fun, but it’s necessary for a healthy living space.
You are now curious about how to clean a skateboard. That’s okay. This blog post will provide you with all the information you need to know to clean your skateboard properly. We will discuss the different cleaning methods and materials that are available, as well as provide some helpful tips on how to get the most out of your cleaning session.
So, whether you are a beginner or an experienced skater, read on for all the information you need to keep your skateboard looking and performing its best!
Why It’s Important to Clean Your Skateboard Regularly
Maintaining a clean skateboard is not only important for aesthetic reasons, but it also serves several practical purposes.
Firstly, keeping your skateboard clean helps to prevent rust and corrosion on metal parts such as trucks and bearings. This can extend the lifespan of your equipment and save money in the long run.
Dirt buildup on the deck can affect the grip of your shoes and impact how well you can control your board. Regularly cleaning off grime helps keep the grip tape adhesive and ensures a secure footing while skating.
Debris on the deck can get caught in between moving parts, causing them to jam during use and potentially leading to injury. Cleaning off dirt and mud helps prevent these mechanical issues.
Lastly, a dirty board doesn’t look or feel as good to ride. Keeping your skateboard clean allows for a superior skating experience overall. In sum, taking time to clean your skateboard regularly is crucial for both performance and safety reasons.
How To Clean Skateboard
There are steps followed in cleaning a skateboard properly. They are as follows:
Gather Your Materials
Materials needed to clean a skateboard:
- Sponge
- Mild dish soap
- Bucket
- Rag
- Water
- Scrub brush (optional)
- Microfiber cloth Grip gum
- Rubber cement pickup
- Clean paper towel
- Razor blade and a new grip tape
Secure the Workplace
You will want to find a level surface on which to clean your skateboard. A countertop or table is ideal. You will also want to ensure the area is well-ventilated, as cleaning products can be fumes.
Prepare the Skateboard for Cleaning
Wear gloves and start by removing all hardware from the deck. This includes the trucks, wheels, bearings, and other attached parts. Once everything is removed, you can access the deck more easily.
Wash the Deck
Use a sponge or rag to apply a generous amount of soap to the deck’s surface. If there is skateboard grip tape, you may also use a scrub brush/ soft wire brush for tougher dirt and grime. Be sure to work the soap into all nooks and crannies, especially the skateboard grip tape. Rinse the deck with clean water and dry it off with a rag. If after cleaning you still have dirty grip tape, you can consider putting in a new and clean grip tape.
Clean the Skateboard Wheels
Fill a bucket with soapy water and submerge the wheels in the solution. Let them soak for a few minutes before scrubbing them with a sponge or brush. Once clean, rinse the wheels with clean water and dry them off. After having clean skateboard wheels, move to the next part.
Cleaning the Skateboard Bearings
Skateboard bearings can be cleaned using several methods. One popular method is to remove the bearings from the bearing shields on the wheels and soak them in rubbing alcohol overnight. In the morning, rinse the ball bearings with clean water and dry them off before reassembling your skateboard.
Another method is to use a bearing cleaner, which can be purchased at most skate shops. Follow the instructions on the packaging.
Reassemble your Skateboard
Once everything is clean and dry, you can reassemble your skateboard. Start by attaching the trucks to the deck, followed by the wheels and bearings. Make sure that everything is tightened securely before riding.
And that’s it!
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Cleaning Session
1) Prioritize the items you want to clean. Start with the dirtiest or most frequently used items, and work your way down to the least dirty or least used.
2) Gather all necessary cleaning supplies beforehand, such as rags, sponges, scrub brushes, and cleaning solutions.
3) Break down your cleaning task into smaller sections to make it more manageable and efficient. For example, when cleaning a skateboard, divide the deck, trucks, and wheels into separate sections to clean them individually.
4) Pay attention to specific areas that may require extra scrubbing or special cleaners, such as removing dirt buildup on the trucks or sticker residue on the deck.
5) Don’t forget to give everything a final rinse with water and allow it time to dry before using it again.
How to Store Your Skateboard
Storing your skateboard correctly can help to extend its lifespan and prevent damage.
First, make sure that the board is clean and dry before storage. Wiping down the board with a damp cloth can remove dirt and debris while allowing it to air dry can prevent mold and rust.
Next, consider using a soft cover or bag to protect the board from scratches and dings. Place the covered skateboard in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight. Avoid hanging the board on hooks or nails, as this can cause pressure marks on the deck or truck bends.
Finally, regularly inspecting and tightening hardware such as screws or bearings can prevent malfunction while riding.
Skateboard Maintenance Tips
As a skateboarder, it is important to regularly maintain your board to ensure optimal performance and safety.
- One of the most important steps in maintaining a skateboard is tightening the hardware – this includes the bolts connecting the trucks to the deck, the kingpin nut, and any screws on the grip tape.
- It’s also important to clean off dirt and grime buildup on the deck and wheels with mild soap and water.
- Additionally, regularly check for cracks or chips in the deck and any wear on the trucks and wheels, which may need to be replaced.
- Finally, adding lubrication to the bearings can help with smoothness and speed when riding.
Conclusion
Cleaning is the key to maintaining your skateboard and running smoothly. By following these tips, you can prolong the life of your board and avoid any serious damage.