How to Clean the Black Side of Your Skateboard

The black stuff that resembles sandpaper on the top of your skateboard is called grip tape. This crucial part of the board provides traction, helping you keep your feet on the board and perform tricks. Dirty, grimy grip tape may not allow as much traction as when new. Keeping it in pristine condition makes your board look better and helps keep your feet on the board.

Things You'll Need

  • Window cleaning solution
  • Towel
  • Medium to thick scrub brush
  • Paper towels
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Instructions

    • 1

      Lay your towel out flat on the floor. Stand your skateboard on top of it facing upright, as when you ride it.

    • 2

      Spray the entire length of your skateboard with the window cleaning solution. Then scrub it thoroughly with your scrub brush. An old toothbrush also works, but larger brushes require less time scrubbing. Scrub firmly, in a circular motion.

    • 3

      Set paper towels on the skateboard, so they cover the entire grip tape surface. Press them down onto the grip tape without scrubbing or rubbing. Let it sit for at least 5 minutes.

    • 4

      Remove the paper towels, and dispose of them. For really dirty boards, you may need to repeat Steps 2 and 3. Leave the board somewhere cool to dry completely, before riding.