How to Clean & Grease Roller Skate Wheels

Roller skating is an enjoyable hobby and sporting activity for enthusiasts of all ages. A good "roll," however, can be ruined if your wheels are not properly cleaned of dirt, dust, grime and sometimes, gum. Additionally, wheel bearings should be regularly greased or oiled so you can have the smoothest skate possible.

Things You'll Need

  • Two small towels
  • Small bucket
  • Dishwashing liquid
  • Protective rubber or latex gloves
  • Vial of skate oil
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Instructions

    • 1

      Prepare the water. Put on gloves, if desired, to protect your hands. Pour a small amount of dishwashing liquid into the bucket. Fill halfway with hot water.

    • 2

      Clean wheels. Soak the towel, wring out and proceed to clean one skate wheel making sure to remove all dirt, smudge marks or particles on the wheel surface.

    • 3

      Repeat. Resoak the towel in the sudsy water, wring out, and clean the next skate wheel. It is best to resoak after each wheel so as not to transfer collected dirt, grease or oil from one wheel to another, via the towel.

    • 4

      Dry wheels. Allow the wheels to air dry or pat dry with another towel.

    • 5

      Oil bearings. Place one to two drops of roller skate oil onto one wheel bearing, on the outer and inner side of the wheel. Spin the wheel, which will speed distribution of the oil throughout the bearing case. Repeat for each wheel.