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The short answer: To clean and maintain your longboard bearings, remove them from the wheels, wipe off excess dirt, soak them in a solvent like isopropyl alcohol or citrus cleaner, dry them thoroughly, then lubricate with a light oil or bearing lube. This simple process, done every few months or after wet or dirty rides, will keep your bearings spinning fast and extend their life.
Longboard bearings are the heart of your ride. They allow your wheels to spin freely, reducing friction and making your pushes more efficient. Over time, dirt, dust, and grime accumulate inside the bearing, turning the smooth rotation into a gritty, slow grind. Not only does this make riding harder, but it also wears out the bearing faster. Regular cleaning removes these contaminants and restores the smooth, fast spin you want. Plus, it’s a cheap way to avoid buying new bearings frequently.
Before you start, gather the following:
You might also want a pair of rubber gloves to keep your hands clean, and a workspace with good lighting.
Follow these steps to clean your longboard bearings effectively:
Remove the bearings: Take off your wheels using a skate tool. Place the tool over the axle nut, loosen, and pull the wheel off. Then, use the bearing removal tool or the axle of the skate tool to gently pry the bearings out of the wheel. To avoid damaging the bearings, push from one side and catch it as it pops out.
Remove the shields: Most bearings have rubber shields on one or both sides. Use a small screwdriver or pick to carefully pry off the shield. Do this gently to avoid bending the shield or scratching the bearing. If your bearings are shielded on both sides, remove both. Set the shields aside in a safe place.
Initial dry wipe: Wipe off any loose dirt or grime from the outside of the bearing with a dry cloth. This prevents large particles from getting into the solvent.
Soak in solvent: Place the bearings (without shields) in a glass jar or container. Cover them with your cleaning solvent, ensuring they are fully submerged. Put the lid on and shake gently for a few minutes. Let them soak for about 10 to 15 minutes. The solvent will dissolve grease and loosen dirt.
Scrub and agitate: After soaking, use a soft brush or toothbrush to scrub each bearing, especially around the balls and the race (the inner track). You can also do a second soak if they are still dirty. Some riders use a bearing cleaning kit that spins the bearings in solvent, but manual agitation works fine.
Rinse and dry: Remove the bearings from the solvent and rinse them with fresh solvent or alcohol. Then, place them on a clean cloth and let them air dry completely. You can also use a hairdryer on a cool setting to speed up drying. Ensure they are completely dry before lubricating, because any leftover moisture can cause rust.
Lubricate: Once dry, apply a small drop of bearing oil to each bearing. Spin the bearing gently to distribute the oil evenly. Do not over-lubricate, as excess oil can attract dirt. If you’re using a grease, apply a small amount and work it in.
Reassemble: Snap the shields back on, making sure they are seated properly. Then, press the bearings back into the wheels. Use a bearing press tool or the flat side of a skate tool to push them in evenly. Finally, mount the wheels back onto your longboard.
The frequency depends on how and where you ride. If you ride often in dusty or wet conditions, you may need to clean every 2 to 4 weeks. For casual street riding in fair weather, every 2 to 3 months is usually sufficient. Also, if you notice a grinding sound, reduced speed, or the wheels don’t spin freely when off the ground, it’s time for a clean. Always clean after riding in rain or through puddles, as water can wash away lubricant and cause rust.
Preventative maintenance is also key. Wipe down your bearings after a dusty ride and consider using bearing shields or spacers to reduce contamination. When storing your longboard, keep it in a dry place.
If your bearings are rusty, pitted, or have excessive play, cleaning may not be enough. In that case, it’s best to replace them. If you’re in the market for new bearings or a new longboard, check out our best longboard guide for recommendations that suit your budget and style.
WD-40 is not a good lubricant for longboard bearings because it attracts dirt and dries out quickly. It can be used as a solvent to break up grime, but you must then clean with alcohol and apply proper bearing oil.
Yes, if your bearings have removable shields on both sides, take them off and clean both sides thoroughly. This ensures all dirt is removed. If you have non-serviceable bearings, you can still clean the outside, but they may not get as deep a clean.
The key is to keep them clean and properly lubricated. Over-lubricating can actually slow you down. Also, make sure your bearings are seated correctly and your wheels are aligned. Upgrading to higher quality bearings, like ceramic or ABEC rated ones, can also improve speed, but proper maintenance makes the biggest difference.
Keeping your longboard bearings clean is a simple yet vital part of riding. With regular care, your bearings will last longer, and your rides will stay smooth and fast. For more tips and to explore top rated longboards and accessories, visit our guide on the best longboard options.
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