How to Clean Skateboard Bearings: Step-by-Step

Your skateboard setup isn’t cheap, so you shouldn’t let a little dirt ruin your ride. Dirty bearings create friction, cause annoying squeaking noises, and eventually lead to seized wheels that can throw you off the board. Learning how to clean skateboard bearings is the easiest way to prolong the life of your setup and keep your speed up.

Let’s break down the process to get your wheels rolling smoothly again.

When Should You Clean Skateboard Bearings?

You don’t need a calendar to tell you when it is time for maintenance. Your board will tell you. Generally, a deep clean every two to three months is sufficient for the average skater. However, if you skate daily or hit dusty spots, you might need to do this monthly.

Watch out for these signs that your bearings are dirty:

• Noise: The wheels make a crunchy, grinding, or squeaking sound when they spin.
• Friction: When you flick the wheel with your hand, it stops spinning almost immediately.
• Visual grime: You can see black sludge building up on the outside of the bearing shields.

Ignoring these signs can ruin the precision balls inside the race, forcing you to buy a brand new set.

How To Clean Skateboard Bearings

Cleaning bearings is a rite of passage for skaters. The process involves removing the hardware, dissolving the old grease, drying the metal components, and relubricating.

• Time: 45 minutes – 1 hour
• Difficulty: Beginner / Intermediate

What You’ll Need

• Skate tool or socket wrench (1/2 inch)
• Solvent (99% Isopropyl Alcohol, Acetone, or Citrus Cleaner)
• Razor blade, push pin, or X-Acto knife
• Small glass or ceramic jar (plastic can melt with acetone)
• Paper towels or shop rag
• Skateboard speed cream (bearing lubricant)
• Rubber gloves
• Hairdryer or compressed air

Step 1: Remove the Bearings

You need to get the bearings out of the wheels without damaging them.

Take Off the Wheels

Use your skate tool to remove the axle nuts. Place the nuts and washers in a safe bowl or magnetic tray so you don’t lose them. Slide the wheels off the truck axles.

Pry Out the Bearings

There are two ways to do this. You can use a specific bearing press tool, or you can use the truck axle itself (the most common method).

1. Slide the wheel halfway back onto the axle so only the first bearing is on the truck.
2. Angle the wheel slightly so the axle catches the inner race of the bearing.
3. Pry the wheel downward firmly. The bearing should pop right out.
4. Repeat for the bearing on the other side of the wheel.

If you have bearing spacers (small metal cylinders inside the wheel), make sure to save those. You should have 8 bearings total when you finish.

Step 2: Prep and Clean the Bearings

This is the messy part, so lay down some newspaper or a shop towel.

Wipe Down the Exterior

Before you open them up, use a paper towel to wipe off the heavy grime on the outside of the metal rings. This prevents extra dirt from falling inside during the next step.

Remove the Rubber Shields

Most modern skate bearings have removable rubber shields.

1. Take your razor blade or pin.
2. Gently insert the tip between the inner metal ring and the rubber shield.
3. Pry outward very gently. Do not bend or cut the shield, or it won’t seal properly later.
4. If your bearings are metal-shielded (non-removable), skip this step, though they are much harder to clean thoroughly.

Soak and Shake

Place your open bearings into your jar or container. Pour in enough Isopropyl Alcohol or Acetone to completely submerge them.

1. Cap the container tightly.
2. Shake it vigorously for about 1-2 minutes. The liquid will turn black as the old grease and dirt dissolve.
3. Let them soak for 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 3: Dry and Lubricate

This is the most critical stage. If you leave solvent or water in the bearing, it will rust.

Dry Completely

Remove the bearings from the dirty solvent. Place them on a clean paper towel and tap them to knock out excess liquid.

Use a hairdryer on low heat or a can of compressed air to blow out the bearings. Spin them while blowing air to ensure every drop of solvent evaporates. The bearings should feel bone dry and make a loud hissing sound when spun.

Apply Speed Cream

Once dry, the metal is unprotected. You need to lube them immediately.

1. Take your skateboard-specific lubricant (like Bones Speed Cream).
2. Apply 1 to 2 drops directly onto the ball bearings.
3. Spin the bearing between your fingers to coat the races evenly.

Do not use more than 2 drops. Excess oil will leak out and attract dirt, turning into a grinding paste that ruins the bearing faster.

Step 4: Reassemble

It is time to put your setup back together.

1. Gently press the rubber shields back onto the bearings. They should snap into place.
2. Place a bearing into the face of a wheel. Use the truck axle or your body weight to press it in until it sits flush.
3. Insert your spacer (if you use them).
4. Press the second bearing into the back of the wheel.
5. Put the washers and wheels back on your trucks and tighten the nuts.

Tighten the nut until it is snug, then loosen it about a quarter turn. The wheel should have a tiny bit of “play” (wiggle room) and spin freely.

Is It Worth Cleaning Skate Bearings?

Cleaning is worth it if you have high-quality bearings (like Bones Swiss or Reds) that just need maintenance. It saves money and keeps your ride fast. However, cleaning cannot fix physical damage.

You should replace the bearings entirely if:

• Rust is visible: If the balls or races are rusted, they will never be smooth again.
• The cage is broken: If the plastic or metal cage holding the balls is cracked or missing.
• They seized up: If a bearing won’t spin even after a soak in acetone, it is dead.
• Budget bearings: If you are riding cheap $10 generic bearings, the cost of the solvent and lube might exceed the cost of a new set.

How To Make Your Skateboard Faster

Clean bearings are the first step to speed, but your hardware choices also matter.

Wheel Size and Durometer

Larger wheels generally have a higher top speed and roll over cracks easier. If you want to cruise faster, look for wheels in the 54mm to 60mm range.

Hardness (Durometer) also plays a role. Harder wheels (99a – 101a) create less friction on smooth concrete, making them faster in skateparks. Softer wheels (78a – 87a) absorb vibration on rough asphalt, making them faster on the street because they don’t lose momentum to bumps.

Bearing Spacers and Washers

Ensure you are using speed rings (washers) and spacers. Spacers allow you to tighten the axle nut all the way down without crushing the bearing. This aligns the bearings perfectly parallel, reducing friction and allowing the wheel to spin at its maximum potential.

FAQs

Can You Use WD-40 to Clean Skateboard Bearings?

No, never use standard WD-40 on skateboard bearings. It is a solvent, not a lubricant, and it will strip away the necessary grease, leaving your bearings unprotected against rust and friction.

Can I Clean My Bearings With Hand Sanitizer?

No, hand sanitizer contains water, glycerin, and fragrances that leave a sticky residue. This residue attracts dirt and the water content will cause your bearings to rust.

Can I Use Olive Oil on Skateboard Bearings?

No, vegetable oils and olive oil will eventually go rancid and become sticky. This gumminess creates drag and ruins the bearing. Always use synthetic speed cream designed for skateboards.

Can You Over-Grease Skateboard Bearings?

Yes, adding too much grease creates hydraulic drag, which actually slows the bearing down. Excess grease also leaks out onto your wheels and collects dust, creating a gritty paste.

How Do You Clean Non-Removable Bearings?

If your bearings have metal shields that don’t pop off, soak them in solvent overnight and agitate them frequently. You won’t get them perfectly clean, but it helps. Spin them dry and add a drop of lube through the small gap near the inner ring.

How Long Do Skateboard Bearings Last?

With regular cleaning, a quality set of bearings can last 1 to 2 years. However, if you skate in the rain or through sand often, they may only last a few months.

Can I Use Vinegar to Clean Bearings?

You can use white vinegar to remove rust, but it is risky because it contains water. If you use vinegar, you must rinse the bearings with alcohol immediately afterward and dry them thoroughly to prevent flash rusting.

Can I Use Soap and Water to Clean Bearings?

No, water is the enemy of steel bearings. Soap and water will lead to immediate oxidation (rust). Always use a water-free solvent like 99% isopropyl alcohol or acetone.

Keep Rolling Smoothly

Cleaning your skateboard bearings isn’t the most exciting part of skating, but it makes a massive difference in how your board feels under your feet. By keeping your setup clean and dry, you’ll push less, roll further, and save money on replacements. Grab your skate tool and give your board the tune-up it deserves.