Skateboard grip tape is one of the most important parts of your skateboard. Not only does it provide traction for your feet, but it also protects your deck from wear and tear. Over time, however, grip tape can become grimy and stained, making it difficult to keep your feet on the board.
There are many ways to clean grip tape, but the best way to do it depends on the type of dirt and grime that you’re dealing with.
Keeping in mind all your needs we have come up with a step-by-step guide on how to clean skateboard grip tape without damaging it.
How to clean skateboard grip tape?
Tools and materials
- -Griptape cleaner
- -Sponge or soft cloth
- -Toothbrush (optional)
- -Warm water (optional)
- -Hairdryer (optional)
Step 1: Identify the type of dirt
The first step in cleaning your griptape is to identify the type of dirt or grime that you’re dealing with. If the griptape is just lightly stained, you may be able to get away with using a griptape cleaner and a sponge or soft cloth. However, if the griptape is very dirty or has thick build-up, you may need to use a toothbrush or warm water to loosen the dirt.
Step 2: Choose your cleaning method
Once you’ve identified the type of dirt on your griptape, you can choose the best cleaning method for the job.
Belt Sander Cleaner Method:
If you have a belt sander, you can use it to clean your grip tape. Just make sure to go slowly and not apply too much pressure, or you could damage the grip tape.
Sponge or Cloth Method: If the dirt is just lightly stained, you can try cleaning it with a sponge or soft cloth. Just dampen the sponge or cloth with water and a little bit of grip tape cleaner. Gently rub the sponge or cloth over the grip tape until the dirt comes off.
Toothbrush Method:
If the grip tape is very dirty or has a thick build-up, you may need to use a toothbrush to loosen the dirt. Just dampen the toothbrush with water and a little bit of grip tape cleaner. Gently brush the toothbrush over the grip tape until the dirt comes off.
Brass Wire Brush Method
A brass wire brush can be used to clean your grip tape. Just make sure to go slowly and not apply too much pressure, or you could damage the grip tape.
Warm Water Method:
If the grip tape is very dirty or has a thick build-up, you may need to use warm water to loosen the dirt. Just wet a sponge or cloth with warm water and gently rub it over the grip tape until the dirt comes off.
Step 1: Rinse off the cleaner
Once you’ve used one of the above methods to clean your grip tape, it’s important to rinse off any cleaner that’s left behind. Otherwise, the cleaner could damage the grip tape. Just wet a sponge or cloth with water and gently rub it over the grip tape until the cleaner is gone.
Step 2: Dry the grip tape
Once you’ve cleaned and rinsed off the grip tape, it’s important to dry it off to prevent any damage. The best way to do this is to use a hairdryer on the low setting. Hold the hair dryer about 6 inches (15 cm) away from the grip tape and move it slowly back and forth until the grip tape is dry.
Skateboard grip tape is an important part of your skateboard, so it’s important to keep it clean. By following these steps, you can safely and effectively clean your grip tape without damaging it.
What to Avoid
- -Don’t use a power washer to clean your grip tape. The high-pressure water can damage the grip tape.
- -Don’t use a harsh cleaner, such as bleach, to clean your grip tape. These cleaners can damage the grip tape.
- -Don’t scrub the grip tape too hard. This can damage the grip tape.
- -Don’t use a hairdryer on the high setting. This can damage the grip tape.
- -Don’t forget to rinse off any cleaner that’s left behind. Otherwise, the cleaner could damage the grip tape.
- -Don’t forget to dry the grip tape after cleaning it. Otherwise, the grip tape could be damaged by moisture.
How To Prevent Dirty Grip Tape?
As anyone who has ever ridden a skateboard knows, grip tape will inevitably get dirty. Even if you take good care of your board and avoid riding in muddy or wet conditions, your grip tape is bound to get stained and grimy over time. Fortunately, there are some easy steps you can take to prevent dirt from building up on your grip tape in the first place.
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Keep your board clean.
The best way to prevent dirt from building up on your grip tape is to keep your board clean. After each session, wipe down your deck with a damp cloth to remove any dirt, grime, or salt that may have accumulated. You should also regularly clean your trucks and wheels to prevent dirt and grit from rubbing off on your grip tape.
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Use a clear grip tape.
If you want to make it easier to keep your grip tape clean, consider using a clear grip tape. Clear tapes are less susceptible to staining than black tapes, and they also show dirt less obviously. However, they may not provide as much grip as a traditional black grip tape.
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Apply a fresh layer of grip tape.
Over time, your grip tape will start to wear down and lose its stickiness. When this happens, it’s more likely to collect dirt and grime. To keep your grip tape clean, it’s important to apply a fresh layer of tape when necessary.
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Store your board in a clean, dry place.
When you’re not skating, it’s important to store your board in a clean, dry place. If you leave your board out in the rain or in a dirty garage, it’s more likely to get dirty and your grip tape will be more difficult to clean.
By following these tips, you can prevent dirt from building up on your grip tape and keep your board looking clean.
Removing Old Grip tape from skateboard
Sometimes when you’re done with your old skateboard grip tape, you might want to remove it. There are a few ways to do this, but the most effective way is to use heat. This can be done with a hairdryer, by running it over the grip tape until the adhesive gets warm and loosens up. You can also use a heat gun, but be careful not to overheat the deck. Once the grip tape is warm, you should be able to peel it off easily. If there are any stubborn pieces left behind, you can use a putty knife or razor blade to scrape them off. Be sure to clean the deck before applying new grip tape.
There are a few things to keep in mind when removing old grip tape. First, be careful not to damage the deck. Second, make sure the surface is clean before applying new grip tape. Third, be patient and take your time. Peeling off old grip tape can be a tedious process, but it’s worth it to have a clean, fresh surface to work with.
few things to consider when choosing grip tape
Grip tape is the sticky material that goes on top of the deck and provides traction for your feet. It’s important to choose the right grip tape for your skating style and needs. There are a few things to consider when choosing grip tape.
>> First, think about the size of your deck. You’ll need to find grip tape that’s the right size for your deck. If it’s too small, it won’t provide enough coverage and traction. If it’s too big, it will be difficult to apply and could peel up at the edges.
>> Second, consider the material of your deck. Some decks are made of softer materials that can be easily damaged by grip tape. If you have a soft deck, look for grip tape that’s specifically made for soft decks.
>> Third, think about the climate you’ll be skating in. If you live in a hot climate, you’ll want to choose grip tape that won’t get too slippery when it gets wet. If you live in a cold climate, you’ll want to choose grip tape that won’t crack in the cold weather.
>> Fourth, consider the design of your deck. If you want to show off your graphic deck, choose grip tape that’s clear or has a pattern. If you want a more classic look, choose black grip tape.
>> Fifth, think about the price. Grip tape ranges in price from $10 to $30. Choose the grip tape that fits your budget and needs.
Now that you know what to look for in grip tape, it’s time to choose the right one for your skateboard.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are a few ways to clean skateboard grip tape. The best way may vary depending on the type of dirt or debris that is on the tape. Hopefully, this article has helped give you a few ideas on how to clean your skateboard grip tape and get back to shredding those streets and parks!
FAQs
Can you clean griptape with an eraser?
Yes, you can clean your grip tape with an eraser. Just make sure to use a new or clean eraser so you don’t end up with dirt and grime on your grip tape.
Can you use WD-40 on griptape?
No, you should not use WD-40 or any other lubricant on your grip tape. This can make your grip tape slippery and dangerous to use.
Can you clean griptape with rubbing alcohol?
Yes, you can clean your grip tape with rubbing alcohol. Just make sure to use a new or clean rag so you don’t end up with dirt and grime on your grip tape.
Can you clean griptape with Windex?
Yes, you can clean your grip tape with Windex. Just make sure to use a new or clean rag so you don’t end up with dirt and grime on your grip tape.