How to Strip a Surfboard

Surfboard wax is used on the deck of the board to keep surfers from slipping. Over time the wax can become dirty, discolored and less effective. When this happens the surfboard should be stripped of old wax. Wax should also be removed when the board is being repaired, before applying adhesive deck tape or when surfing in a new climate.

Things You'll Need

  • Surfboard wax remover
  • Wax comb
  • Credit card (optional)
  • Bucket
  • Dish soap
  • Newspaper (optional)
  • Hair dryer (optional)
  • Washcloths
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Instructions

    • 1

      Lay down old newspaper or go outside to avoiding getting old wax on the floor of your home. Lay the surfboard in the sun if outside for a half hour or run a hairdryer on medium over the board for 5 minutes to soften hardened wax.

    • 2

      Take a wax comb or a plastic item with a hard edge like a credit card and scrape the softened wax from the board. Start from the top and work your way down. Collect the wax and form it into a ball for easier cleanup.

    • 3

      Scrape off as much wax as possible. If you are not applying new wax, use a wax remover to remove any residual wax. Apply wax remover to a washcloth and any waxy areas. Leave it on to dissolve the wax as instructed by the manufacturer.

    • 4

      Fill a small bucket with warm water and a tablespoon of dish soap. Dip a clean washcloth into the soapy water and run it over the surfboard to remove the surf wax remover residue. Take a second washcloth and dampen it with water only. Run it over the surfboard to remove any dish soap. Let the board dry in a shady area.