Keeping your longboard clean not only maintains its appearance but also helps prolong its life and performance.
Cleaning Your Longboard Deck
The deck is the main platform of your longboard, and keeping the grip tape free from dirt and grime is crucial for maintaining traction.
Steps for Cleaning the Deck and Grip Tape
According to one method, cleaning your longboard deck involves several steps to effectively remove dirt and debris.
- Detach the Trucks: To clean the deck more easily, unscrew and detach the trucks from the underside of the deck. This gives you full access to the grip tape surface and allows for thorough cleaning without damaging the trucks or bearings with water.
- Initial Wipe Down: With the trucks removed, you can now wipe down the deck much easier. This removes loose dirt and makes the grip tape more accessible.
- Scrub the Grip Tape: Using a brush, lightly scrub the grip tape with a brush in a circular motion to remove any excess dirt that is embedded in the texture. A stiff brush works best for this. Be gentle to avoid damaging the grip tape itself.
- Rinse: Once you have scrubbed the dirt loose, use a sponge to rinse the soap and dirt off. Use minimal water and work quickly to avoid saturating the wood deck underneath the grip tape. Allow the deck to dry completely before reattaching the trucks.
By following these steps, you can effectively clean the grip tape on your longboard, restoring its grip and appearance.
