Maintaining your longboard is one of the essential tasks to ensure that your ride is smooth and safe. One of the critical parts of longboard maintenance is cleaning the wheels. Accumulated dirt, grime, and dust can make the wheels sticky and decrease their performance, leading to a less pleasurable ride. With the right techniques and products, you can clean your longboard wheels easily. In this article, we will share some simple and effective techniques to clean longboard wheels like a pro.
Check out Top 7 Best Carving Longboards.
Step By Step Guide On How To Clean Longboard Wheels
Following are the some simple and effective techniques to clean your longboard wheels.
Preparing for Cleaning
Before you begin cleaning the wheels, make sure that you have all the necessary supplies on hand. You will need a bucket of warm water, mild dish soap, an old toothbrush, and a clean rag. If your wheels are particularly dirty, you may also want to use a degreaser or citrus-based cleaner. Remove the bearings from the wheels before you start cleaning to ensure that you can clean the wheels more efficiently.
Scrubbing the Wheels
Dip the toothbrush into the bucket of warm soapy water and start scrubbing the wheels. Be sure to scrub under the lip of the wheel since that’s where dirt tends to accumulate the most. Use a little elbow grease to remove stubborn stains, and take your time to make sure that you cover each nook and cranny of the wheel.
Using a Degreaser or Citrus-based Cleaner
Some wheels may have more stubborn dirt or grime buildup than others. In that case, you can use a degreaser or citrus-based cleaner to help break down the dirt. Spray the degreaser or citrus-based cleaner onto the wheels and let it soak for a few minutes before scrubbing with a toothbrush. Be sure to wear gloves and goggles since some cleaners can irritate the skin or eyes.
Rinsing the Wheels
After scrubbing, it’s time to rinse the wheels. Use the clean rag to wipe the wheels and get rid of any remaining dirt or soap suds. Rinse the wheels with clean water, and ensure that all the soap suds are removed.
Drying and Reassembling
Once you’ve rinsed the wheels, it’s time to dry them out. Use a clean, dry rag to pat the wheels dry. Ensure that they are entirely dry before reassembling them. Finally, put your bearings back in and go out for a spin, enjoying your freshly cleaned longboard.
FAQ Guide
To help you maintain your longboard in tip-top shape, we’ve created this FAQ guide on how to clean longboard wheels. Read on to learn more.
Why Should I Clean My Longboard Wheels Regularly?
Longboard wheels accumulate dirt from riding, which can lead to reduced grip and control when riding. Dirt on wheels can also cause issues with bearings, affecting the smoothness of your ride. Regular cleaning of longboard wheels will help prolong their lifespan and keep them in good condition, which ultimately saves you money and keeps you safe.
What Tools Do I Need for Cleaning Longboard Wheels?
Cleaning longboard wheels doesn’t require much, but there are some items you’ll need to do it effectively. You will need a small bowl, soap, a soft-bristled brush or toothbrush, and a towel or rag. You can also use an old toothbrush or a small wire brush to remove stubborn dirt on the wheels.
What Is the Best Method to Clean Longboard Wheels?
The easiest way to clean longboard wheels is by removing them from the board first. Soak them in warm soapy water for at least 5 minutes then scrub with a soft brush to remove dirt. You can also use some rubbing alcohol to remove stubborn dirt and grease. Rinse with water and dry with a towel or rag. If you can’t remove your longboard wheels, you can use a cloth to clean them while still attached to the board.
Can I Use Any Soap to Clean My Longboard Wheels?
No, you should never use harsh cleaning products like bleach or ammonia on your longboard wheels. Instead, use mild soap or dish detergent mixed with warm water. Avoid using too much water as it can damage the bearings.
How Often Should I Clean My Longboard Wheels?
The frequency of cleaning your longboard wheels depends on how often you ride and the terrain you ride in. If you ride in dirty, muddy, or sandy environments, you need to clean your wheels more frequently. In general, cleaning your longboard wheels should become a weekly habit to maintain them in good condition.
Conclusion
Cleaning longboard wheels may seem like a daunting task, but with the right technique and products, it can be an easy and enjoyable task. Keeping your longboard wheels clean ensures that they perform well, prolonging their lifespan and keeping them looking new. Always ensure that you have all the necessary supplies before cleaning your wheels. Always wear gloves and goggles when using chemicals. With these simple tips, maintaining your longboard wheels should be a breeze.
Check out 7 Best Longboard For Beginners.