How to clean skateboard wheels

Keeping your skateboard wheels and bearings clean isn’t just about looks—it’s essential for smooth rides, better grip, and longer-lasting gear. Dirty wheels can slow you down, while jammed bearings can stop your board altogether. This guide will answer every question you have about cleaning skateboard wheels, including which products to use, step-by-step instructions, and pro tips for every style of skating.

Why Should You Clean Your Skateboard Wheels and Bearings?

What Problems Does Dirt Cause for Skateboards?

When you ride your skateboard through dusty parks, city streets, or wet sidewalks, dirt, sand, and small pebbles build up in your wheels and bearings. This debris can cause:

• Slow rolling and rough rides
• Flat spots or uneven wear on wheels
• Stuck or noisy bearings
• Less control during tricks or turns

How Often Should You Clean Skateboard Wheels?

The ideal cleaning frequency depends on your skate style and environment:

• Daily/Urban Skating: Clean every 1–2 months if you ride often in gritty areas.
• Occasional/Indoor Use: Every 3–4 months or when wheels start to look dirty.
• After Wet or Muddy Rides: Clean immediately to prevent rust or grime buildup.

Pro Tip: If your wheels feel sticky, sluggish, or noisy, it’s time for a cleaning.

What Tools and Materials Do You Need?

Essential Cleaning Supplies for Skateboard Wheels and Bearings

Prepare these before you start:

Item	Purpose	Notes
Skate tool/socket wrench	Remove wheels from trucks	Match the nut size
Small screwdriver/pliers	Remove bearings and shields	For most bearing types
Soft brush (toothbrush)	Scrub away stuck-on dirt	Avoid wire brushes on urethane
Mild dish soap	Clean grime from wheels	Avoid harsh chemicals
Rubbing alcohol/acetone	Clean bearings (not wheels)	90%+ isopropyl preferred
Paper towels or rags	Dry wheels and bearings	Lint-free is best
Bowl or tub	Soak wheels/bearings
Bearing lubricant	Oil for smooth spinning	Skate-specific or sewing oil
Gloves (optional)	Protect hands from grease/solvent	Recommended for bearing work

What’s the Best Way to Remove Wheels from Your Skateboard?

1. Flip your skateboard so the wheels face up.
2. Use your skate tool or a socket wrench to remove axle nuts from each truck.
3. Carefully pull each wheel off the axle, setting nuts aside for reassembly.

Tip: Work over a clean table or tray so you don’t lose small parts.

How Do You Clean the Wheels Properly?

What’s the Step-by-Step Process?

1. Remove Bearings:
If possible, take bearings out of the wheels. Use a small screwdriver or the edge of the axle to gently pry them out. (We’ll clean bearings separately.)

2. Prepare Soapy Water:
Fill a bowl or tub with warm water and a few drops of dish soap.

3. Soak the Wheels:
Place wheels (without bearings) in soapy water and let soak for 10–20 minutes. This loosens grime, sand, and debris.

4. Scrub the Wheels:
Use a soft brush or toothbrush to clean all surfaces, focusing on treads and inside grooves where dirt collects. Pay extra attention to scuffs or stains.

5. Rinse Thoroughly:
Rinse each wheel with clean water to remove soap residue.

6. Dry Completely:
Pat dry with a towel, then let the wheels air dry. Make sure no moisture remains in the wheel core before reassembling.

What’s the Process for Cleaning Bearings?

Can You Wash Bearings with Water?

Never soak bearings in water—moisture causes rust. Instead, use a solvent like isopropyl alcohol or acetone.

Step-by-Step Bearing Cleaning:

1. Remove Shields (if possible):
   Gently pry off bearing shields using a thin blade or pin.
2. Soak Bearings:
   Place bearings in a small container of rubbing alcohol or acetone. Swirl for 2–5 minutes.
3. Shake and Agitate:
   Move the container gently to dislodge stubborn dirt.
4. Dry Bearings:
   Place on a clean paper towel. Spin each bearing gently to expel excess fluid.
5. Lubricate:
   Add 1–2 drops of skate-specific lubricant to each bearing.
6. Replace Shields:
   Carefully snap shields back in place.

How Should You Dry and Reassemble Your Skateboard?

1. Check All Parts:
   Ensure wheels, bearings, and spacers are completely dry. Leftover moisture can cause corrosion or slippage.
2. Insert Bearings:
   Press bearings back into wheels, add spacers if needed.
3. Reattach Wheels:
   Slide wheels onto trucks, secure with nuts.
4. Test Spin:
   Each wheel should spin freely without wobble or noise.

Do Different Wheel Materials Need Different Cleaning Methods?

• Urethane Wheels:
  Standard on most skateboards and longboards. Clean as described above—mild soap, brush, and water.
• Plastic (Penny Board) Wheels:
  Handle similarly but avoid abrasive brushes.
• Hybrid/Composite Wheels:
  Check manufacturer care tips. Some may recommend avoiding certain solvents or harsh scrubbing.

Note: Always avoid bleach or industrial cleaners, as these can damage color and grip.

What Mistakes Should You Avoid When Cleaning?

• Soaking Bearings in Water: Causes rust and shortens lifespan.
• Using Harsh Chemicals: Weakens wheel material and erodes graphics.
• Skipping Lubrication: Leads to noisy, slow bearings.
• Reassembling Wet Wheels: Can cause mold, slippage, or corrosion.

How Does Cleaning Help Skateboard Performance?

Clean wheels and bearings:

• Roll smoother and faster
• Offer better grip and control, especially at the skatepark or on rough terrain
• Prevent flat spots and uneven wear
• Extend the lifespan of your skateboard

Conclusion

Cleaning your skateboard wheels and bearings is a simple, essential habit for anyone who wants reliable, safe, and high-performing rides—whether you skate street, park, downhill, or just cruise around town. Don’t wait until your wheels look grimy or your bearings screech. Schedule regular maintenance, use the right tools, and your board will thank you with smoother rides and longer life.

FAQs

1. Can you soak skateboard wheels in soapy water?

Yes. It’s safe and effective for urethane wheels (without bearings). Avoid soaking the bearings.

2. How do you know when it’s time to clean skateboard wheels?

If wheels feel sticky, look dirty, or roll unevenly, it’s time for cleaning. Loss of traction or a noisy ride are also signs.

3. What’s the best way to clean skateboard bearings?

Remove bearings, soak them in isopropyl alcohol or acetone, dry completely, and re-lubricate before reassembly.

4. How often should skateboard wheels and bearings be cleaned?

It depends on your skate environment, but every 1–3 months is typical for active skaters. Clean after wet or gritty rides.

5. Can you use WD-40 or household oils for bearings?

Skate-specific lubricants are always best. WD-40 is not recommended as it can attract more dirt and break down bearing grease.