How to Clean Skateboard Bearings

Skateboarding is a very dynamic sport and often leaves behind dirt, dust, sweat, and grime. In order to keep your bearings in top shape, you should clean them regularly. Fortunately, cleaning your skateboard bearings is both easy and inexpensive. Let’s take a look at how you do it.

How to Clean Skateboard Bearings?

There are a few different ways to clean your skateboard bearings, but the most effective is to use a commercial bearing cleaner. You can find these cleaners at your local skateboard shop or online. If you don’t have access to a bearing cleaner, you can also use WD-40 or another similar product.

Skateboard

How to Clean Skateboard Bearings Using a Commercial Cleaner?

To clean your bearings using a commercial bearing cleaner, simply remove the bearings from your wheels and soak them in the cleaner for a few minutes. Once they have been soaked, use a brush to remove any dirt or debris that may be clinging to the bearings. Finally, rinse the bearings with clean water and dry them before reinstalling them on your wheels.

How to Clean Skateboard Bearings Using WD-40?

If you are using WD-40 [1] or another similar product, start by spraying the bearings with the cleaner. Next, use a brush to remove any dirt or debris. Finally, before reinstalling the bearings on your wheels, rinse and dry them with clean water.

Can I Use Soap and Water to Clean Skateboard Bearings?

Soap and water can be used to clean your bearings, but it is not as effective as using a commercial bearing cleaner or WD-40. If you do use soap and water, be sure to rinse the bearings thoroughly before reinstalling them on your wheels.

Can I Use Rubbing Alcohol to Clean My Skateboard Bearings?

Yes, rubbing alcohol can be used to clean skateboard bearings. However, it is important to note that rubbing alcohol will damage the plastic cages that surround most bearings.

Can I Use a Nail Polish Remover to Clean My Bearings?

No, you should not use nail polish remover to clean your skateboard bearings. Nail polish remover is too harsh and will damage the bearings.

How Do You Clean Sealed Bearings?

Cleaning sealed bearings are similar to cleaning regular bearings. Begin by removing your wheels’ bearings and immersing them in a commercial bearing cleaning or WD-40. After soaking, use a brush to remove any dirt or debris that has clung to the bearings. Finally, before reinstalling the bearings in your wheels, rinse and dry them with clean water.

How Often Should I Clean My Skateboard Bearings?

It is generally a good idea to clean your bearings after every few skate sessions, or whenever you notice them starting to collect dirt and grime. By keeping your bearings clean, you will extend their life and keep them running smoothly.

boy riding skateboard

Do I Need to Lubricate My Bearings After Cleaning Them?

Yes, it is a good idea to lubricate your bearings after cleaning them. This will help to protect the bearings from dirt and debris and will also keep them running smoothly. To lubricate your bearings, simply add a few drops of bearing oil or lube to each bearing and then spin the bearing to work the oil into the bearing.

Conclusion

Cleaning your skateboard bearings is an important part of maintaining your skateboard. By taking the time to clean them regularly, you can extend the life of your bearings and keep your skateboard running smoothly.

Writer

Lucas Travis
Lucas Travis
Lucas is far from your regular skater boy—he is knowledgeable beyond riding basics and tricks; he knows the technicalities and specifics of every type of modern skateboards, bikes, and scooters. His passion for skateboarding inspired him to bring together a team of skateboard-lovers and experts to test new and popular models and come up with recommendations that will help every skateboard, bike or scooter enthusiasts like them.
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