How to Clean Griptape and Bring Back the Grip (2026)
Three ways to clean dirty griptape, the mistakes that damage a deck and how to keep your grip clean for longer.
Why Clean Griptape?
Griptape is the sandpaper-like sheet on top of a skateboard that keeps your shoes locked to the board. As dirt, dust and grime build up, it loses grip, which makes flip tricks harder and slips more likely. Cleaning it restores grip, makes the board look fresh and extends the life of the tape. The key is to clean it without soaking the wood underneath.
What You'll Need
- A griptape cleaner block (grip gum), a large rubber eraser or a belt sander cleaning stick
- A stiff nylon brush (a firm toothbrush or shoe brush works)
- A cloth and a little water, only for stubborn spots
- A skate tool, if you want to remove the trucks first
Method 1: Grip Gum (Best for Most Boards)
- Knock off loose dirt by tapping the board and brushing it with a dry brush.
- Rub the cleaning block firmly over the griptape in straight strokes, working in sections.
- Press harder on darker areas, usually where your feet sit for ollies and kickflips.
- Brush away the crumbs and dirt as you go.
- Clean the block on a rough surface when it gets dirty, then continue.
Grip gum works best on fairly new tape. Very old, ground-in dirt may only lighten rather than disappear.
Method 2: Dry Brushing
For dust and light dirt, a stiff nylon brush is often enough. Brush firmly in one direction, then the other, and tap the board to shake out loose grit. Avoid wire brushes with heavy pressure, which can tear the grit off the tape.
Method 3: A Little Water for Stubborn Grime
- Remove the trucks if you can, so water can't reach the bearings.
- Dampen a brush or cloth; it should be barely wet, not dripping.
- Scrub the dirtiest spots in small circles.
- Wipe with a dry cloth straight away.
- Let the board dry fully at room temperature, away from heaters and direct sun.
Water is the biggest risk to a maple deck. It can soak through the edges and bolt holes, swell the wood and kill the board's pop. Use it sparingly and only when dry methods fail.
Cleaning Methods Compared
| Method | Best For | Risk to Deck |
|---|---|---|
| Grip gum or eraser | General dirt and shoe marks | Very low |
| Dry nylon brush | Dust and loose grit | Very low |
| Damp brush or cloth | Stubborn grime | Low if used sparingly |
| Soaking or hosing | Not recommended | High |
What to Avoid
- Soaking or hosing the board: water damages the wood and bearings.
- Harsh solvents: they can dissolve the griptape adhesive and damage graphics.
- Heavy wire brushing: it strips grit off the tape.
- Drying with heat: hair dryers and heaters can warp decks and loosen adhesive.
- Scrubbing over bolt heads: it can tear the tape around them.
How to Keep Griptape Clean
- Avoid skating through puddles, mud and wet grass.
- Knock dirt off your shoes before stepping on the board.
- Store the board indoors and dry.
- Give it a quick dry brush after dusty sessions.
- Clean it regularly before dirt gets ground in.
When to Replace Griptape
Cleaning can't restore grit that's worn smooth. Replace your griptape when it's bald under your feet, peeling at the edges or torn. A fresh sheet costs little and is easy to apply. See how to remove grip tape, how to apply grip tape and the best griptape.
Check Griptape PriceCleaning Scooter and BMX Grips
Scooter decks often use the same kind of griptape, so these methods work there too. Rubber handlebar grips on scooters and BMX bikes are different: scrub them with warm soapy water and an old toothbrush, rinse with a damp cloth and let them dry before riding.
Clean the Rest of Your Board Too
While you're at it, check your bearings and wheels. Dirty bearings slow you down more than dirty grip; see how to clean skateboard bearings and skateboard maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you clean griptape with water?
Use as little water as possible. A slightly damp brush or cloth can lift stubborn dirt, but soaking the griptape lets water reach the wood, which can weaken the deck and kill its pop. Dry it thoroughly afterward.
What is the best griptape cleaner?
A griptape cleaning block, often called grip gum, is the simplest option. It's a rubber block that you rub over the tape to lift dirt. Many skate brands make one.
Can I use a rubber eraser to clean griptape?
Yes, a large rubber eraser or a belt sander cleaning stick works in a similar way to grip gum for light dirt.
How often should I clean my griptape?
Whenever it looks dirty or your feet start to slip. A quick clean every few weeks keeps dirt from getting ground in.
When should I replace griptape instead of cleaning it?
Replace it when the grit is worn smooth, when it's peeling or torn, or when cleaning no longer restores the grip. New griptape is inexpensive.
Does cleaning work on scooter and BMX grips?
Scooter decks often use griptape, so the same methods work. Rubber handlebar grips on scooters and BMX bikes can be scrubbed with warm soapy water and dried well.