How to Clean Your Wheel Bearings

Over time, your wheels just won't spin as smoothly as they used to. With more and more use, the bearings will have collected all manner of gunk and dirt...but don't throw them out just yet! They still have life in them, you just need to give them a bit of TLC. If you don't know how to clean your wheel bearings, then you've come to the right place, because Amy from our SkateHut workshop is here to show you how. Watch this awesome video and get those wheels running like new again.

Steps for Cleaning Wheel Bearings

1. Remove the Bearings: Start by taking your skate wheels off the axles. Most skateboards and roller skates have a removable bearing system. You can use a skate tool or a wrench to loosen the axle nuts and remove the wheels.

2. Remove the Bearings from the Wheels: Use a skate tool or a bearing puller to pop the bearings out of the wheels. Be careful not to damage the bearings or the wheels during this process.

3. Remove the Shields or Seals: Most bearings have rubber shields or metal seals covering the balls inside. Use a pin, needle, or small flathead screwdriver to pry off these shields gently. Be sure to keep track of which side of the shield faces outward, as you'll need to put them back on correctly later.

4. Soak the Bearings: Fill a small container with a solvent such as isopropyl alcohol or bearing cleaner. Submerge the bearings completely and let them soak for a few minutes. Swirl the container or gently agitate the bearings to help loosen any dirt or debris.

5. Scrub the Bearings: Use a small brush, such as an old toothbrush, to scrub the bearings while they're still submerged in the solvent. Focus on the inner and outer raceways, as well as the cage and balls, to remove any stubborn grime.

6. Dry the Bearings: Once clean, shake off any excess water and then pat the bearings dry with a clean, lint-free cloth. You can also use compressed air to blow out any remaining moisture from inside the bearings.

7. Apply Lubricant: Once the bearings are completely dry, apply a few drops of skate bearing lubricant or speed cream to each bearing. Spin the bearings to distribute the lubricant evenly and ensure smooth rotation.

8. Reassemble the Bearings: Put the shields or seals back on the bearings, making sure they're oriented correctly. Then, carefully press the bearings back into the wheels until they're fully seated.

9. Reinstall the Wheels: Finally, put the wheels back onto the axles and tighten the axle nuts securely with a skate tool or wrench. Make sure the wheels spin freely and smoothly before hitting the road or the skatepark.