How to Clean Skateboard Wheels and Bearings Step by Step (2026)
Dirty wheels and gritty bearings slow you down. Here's how to clean both, with the tools you need and how often to do it.
Why Clean Your Wheels and Bearings?
Dirt on your wheels makes them grip less and ride rougher, while grit in your bearings slows you down and wears them out. Cleaning both every so often keeps your board fast and smooth. Wheels are simple: they can be washed. Bearings must stay out of water and are cleaned with a solvent, then lubricated. You'll need a skate tool, a solvent such as isopropyl alcohol, lubricant and some rags.
Bones Cleaning Unit + Speed Cream
Best bearing cleaning kit
- Bearing cleaning unit
- Speed Cream lubricant
- From Bones Bearings
Bones Speed Cream
Best bearing lube
- Bearing lubricant
- Helps bearings run faster
- Small bottle lasts a long time
Skate T-Tool
Best skate tool
- Fits axle nuts
- Fits mounting hardware
- All-in-one
What You Need
| Item | Use |
|---|---|
| Skate tool | Remove axle nuts and wheels |
| Bowl of warm soapy water | Clean wheels |
| Old toothbrush | Scrub wheels |
| Isopropyl alcohol or citrus degreaser | Clean bearings |
| Bearing cleaning container | Soak and shake bearings |
| Skate bearing lube | Lubricate bearings |
| Rags or paper towels | Dry everything |
Step 1: Remove the Wheels
Unscrew the axle nuts with a skate tool and slide the wheels off. Keep the nuts and speed washers in a cup.
Step 2: Remove the Bearings
Slide the wheel partly back onto the axle at an angle and lever it gently to pop out one bearing. Flip the wheel and repeat. Remove any spacers.
Step 3: Wash the Wheels
- Soak the wheels in warm, soapy water for a few minutes.
- Scrub with a toothbrush to remove dirt and grime.
- Rinse and dry thoroughly.
Step 4: Clean the Bearings
- Remove the bearing shields if they're removable (use a pin or blade carefully).
- Put the bearings in a container with isopropyl alcohol or degreaser.
- Shake for a minute or two, then let them soak.
- Remove and let them dry completely; spinning them helps.
Step 5: Lubricate
Add one or two drops of skate bearing lubricant to each bearing, spin it to spread the lube and replace the shields.
Step 6: Reassemble
- Press bearings back into the wheels.
- Slide the wheels on with speed washers on each side.
- Tighten axle nuts until the wheel spins freely with no side-to-side play.
The Tools
Bones Cleaning Unit + Speed Cream
This bundle pairs the Bones bearing cleaning unit with a bottle of Speed Cream lubricant, everything you need to clean and lube bearings.
Check Price on AmazonBones Speed Cream
Bones' bearing lubricant, designed to help bearings run faster and last longer.
Check Price on AmazonSkate T-Tool
An all-in-one skate tool for axle nuts, mounting hardware and kingpins.
Check Price on AmazonHow Often to Clean
| Riding | Wheels | Bearings |
|---|---|---|
| Occasional, dry pavement | As needed | Every few months |
| Regular skating | Monthly | Every few weeks |
| After rain, dirt or sand | Right away | Right away |
Quick Tips
- Avoid riding through puddles; water rusts bearings.
- Rotate wheels to even out wear.
- Replace flat-spotted or cracked wheels.
Upgrade with new bearings or wheels, and freshen up your deck with how to clean grip tape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I clean skateboard wheels with water?
Yes, the urethane wheels can be washed in warm, soapy water. Remove the bearings first, because water damages them.
How often should I clean my skateboard wheels and bearings?
Clean wheels whenever they're dirty. Clean bearings every few weeks of regular skating or after riding in dirt or wet conditions.
What should I use to clean bearings?
Most skaters use isopropyl alcohol or a citrus degreaser, then add a few drops of bearing lubricant.
Should I use WD-40 on bearings?
It's not ideal as a lubricant. Use a skate bearing lubricant after cleaning.
What if my bearings got wet?
Remove, clean and dry them quickly, then lubricate to prevent rust.