How to Clean Longboard Bearings: The No-B.S. Guide You Wish You’d Had Sooner

Do you wonder how to clean longboard bearings? Riding your longboard feels like flying… until it doesn’t. Suddenly, your wheels are dragging, your ride sounds like an old shopping cart, and you’re wondering if your board’s breaking up with you. Spoiler alert: It’s not—you just need to clean your bearings. Trust me, it’s easier (and cheaper) than replacing them.

Let’s break it down step by step, no fluff, no drama.

Why Bother Cleaning Your Bearings?

Because dirty bearings are like hangovers—preventable and awful. Every time you skate through dirt, puddles, or sand, your bearings collect grime. Over time, they slow down, rust, and start making noises that’ll make you want to cry. Cleaning them gets your board back to flying mode, saves you cash, and keeps you looking like you know what you’re doing.

Signs Your Bearings Are Begging for Help

Your wheels spin slower than your Wi-Fi on a bad day.
Weird squeaks or grinding noises that scream “HELP ME.”
Visible dirt or rust.
You skated through water, mud, or some questionable substance.

If any of this sounds familiar, it’s time to give your bearings some love.

The Gear You’ll Need

Skate Tool/Wrench (to unbolt your wheels).
Razor Blade/Small Screwdriver (for popping off shields).
Isopropyl Alcohol (90%+) or Citrus Degreaser (to dissolve the gunk).
Bowl or Jar (because bearings need baths too).
Lint-Free Cloth/Paper Towels (to dry them).
Lubricant (speed cream or light oil).
Optional: Hair dryer or compressed air (if you’re impatient).

Steps on how to clean longboard bearings

Step 1: Prep Your Workspace

Find a flat spot where you won’t lose tiny parts (trust me, it’s a nightmare). Lay out your tools and a towel to keep things tidy—this will get messy.

Step 2: Yank Those Bearings Out

Unscrew the axle nuts with your skate tool.
Slide a wheel halfway onto the axle, tilt it, and use the leverage to pop out the bearing.
Repeat 7 more times.
Pro Tip: Be gentle—your bearings are tough, but they’re not invincible.

Step 3: Strip ’Em Down (The Bearings, Not You)

Now, take off those bearing shields so you can clean inside:

Rubber Shields: Pry them off carefully with a small screwdriver or razor.
Metal Shields: Look for a “C” clip, remove it, and then pop off the shield.
Feeling brave? You can also remove the balls and cage for a deeper clean. (But seriously, don’t if you’re clumsy.)

Step 4: Give Them a Bath

Toss your bearings into a jar or bowl.
Cover them with isopropyl alcohol or citrus degreaser—no water, unless you enjoy rust.
Let them soak for 30 minutes, then give the jar a gentle shake to loosen the grime.
Scrub stubborn spots with a toothbrush or cloth.

Step 5: Dry Like Your Life Depends On It

Because wet bearings = rusty bearings.

Lay them on a lint-free cloth and spin them to shake off excess liquid.
Speed it up with a hair dryer (cool setting) or compressed air.
Double-check they’re bone dry before moving on.

Step 6: Lube It Up

Add 1–2 drops of lubricant per bearing—no more, no less.
Spin each one to distribute it evenly.
Oil vs. Grease: Oil is faster but attracts dirt. Grease lasts longer but spins slower. Choose your poison.

Step 7: Put Everything Back Together

Snap the shields back on (gently, no hulk moves).
Pop the bearings back into your wheels—use your hands or axle for leverage.
Reattach the wheels, tighten the nuts, and spin them to make sure everything’s smooth.

Maintenance Tips (a.k.a. How to Avoid Doing This Too Often):

Avoid puddles, sand, or mud like the plague.
Clean your bearings every 2–3 months—or more if you’re skating in nasty conditions.
Store your board in a dry spot (your bearings hate humidity).
Invest in quality bearings—they last longer and perform better.

FAQs (For the “But What If…” Crowd):

Q: Can I use WD-40?
No. Just no. It attracts dirt and dries out bearings faster than a bad breakup.

Q: What happens if I skip the lubricant?
Your bearings will hate you, overheat, and die. Don’t skip it.

Q: Do I really need to remove the shields?
Yes. Otherwise, it’s like showering with your clothes on—pointless.

Q: How often should I clean my bearings?
Depends on how dirty your rides get. Regular skaters? Every 2–3 months. Mud chasers? More often.

Wrap-Up: You’re Ready to Roll

And that’s it—you’re officially a bearing-cleaning ninja. Next time your wheels feel sluggish, don’t panic. Grab your tools, follow these steps, and you’ll be back to shredding in no time.

Now, go clean those bearings… or keep skating on dirty ones. Your call. 😉