Learn How To Clean Surfboard More Effectively

Are you tired of dealing with the muck and grime that builds up on your surfboard between sessions? Then it’s time to learn the best way to clean it!

Surfboards are expensive investments, so it pays to take good care of them. Regular cleaning will help keep your board looking great and performing optimally. Plus, if you take the time to clean your board after each session, you’ll get rid of sand, salt, oils and bacteria that can cause damage and reduce the lifespan of your board.

In this article, we’ll cover all the basics of surfboard cleaning — from tools and materials you need to techniques and tips — so that you can easily keep your board in prime condition. So grab your bucket, mop and wax, it’s time to dive into what’s involved in cleaning a surfboard!

Seeing the (Grimy) Sea – Why You Need to Clean Your Surfboard

Seeing the sea can be breathtaking—especially when you’re riding some waves and catching your breath after tumbling off. But each time you come in contact with the salty ocean water, a bit of it (and its accompanying dirt and grime) is bound to stick to your surfboard.

This is why it’s crucial to frequently clean your board. After each session in the salt and sand, rinse the board with clean water to properly clean it. After that, you can use a soft sponge to remove dirt and debris.

Next, use a wax comb to remove all the wax from your board every few months and then re-wax it. This will guarantee that your surfboard stays in great condition for many years to come.

What You’ll Need to Clean Your Surfboard

Cleaning your surfboard may sound intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. To make sure your board is looking its best and is ready to wield the waves, you’ll need a few essential tools:

• Wax Comb or Credit Card – You’ll need to scrape off old wax before you can give it a proper clean. A plastic wax comb or even a credit card work great for this step!
• Surfboard Cleaner or Coconut Oil – After removing the old wax, you’ll need to wipe the board to get rid of any leftover wax. If you’re in a bind, coconut oil will also work, but we strongly advise buying a surfboard cleaner made just for the job!
• Basecoat and Topcoat Wax – After your board is squeaky clean, make sure it’s properly protected with a basecoat and topcoat wax. This will help keep it looking brand new and will make it easier for you to tackle future cleaning jobs.

Getting Down to Business – Steps to Cleaning Your Surfboard

You are all ready, so let’s start cleaning! You might need to soften your board by exposing it to the sun for a period, depending on how much wax is on it. Once the wax has melted, you can clean the surfboard with a soft cloth and some mild dish soap or one of the various commercial cleaners available.

Once you have chosen your cleaner, follow these steps:

1. Apply the cleaner over the entire board and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
2. Wipe down with a towel in a circular motion to remove any loosened dirt, debris and wax from your board.
3. Rinse thoroughly with freshwater afterwards to ensure all soap and cleaner is removed from your board.
4. Leave out in the sun to dry before storage or heading back out for another session in the waves.

By following these few simple steps, you’ll have a gleaming surfboard ready for whatever conditions come your way!

How Often Should You Clean Your Surfboard?

It’s crucial to understand how frequently to clean your surfboard. In general, you should totally remove the wax from your surfboard at least four times a year and clean it at least once a month. However, it is advised that you deep clean your board after each few sessions if you consistently participate in extreme surfing.

Here are some tips to help you determine how often you should clean your surfboard:

• Check the Weather: If you live in a dry region and don’t tend to hit the beach too often, then it is important to make sure that your board does not become too sun-baked and brittle. Cleaning it once a month should be enough in these cases.
• How Often Are You Surfing?Cleaning your board more frequently will assist avoid dirt and wax buildup if you participate in frequent weekly surfing sessions. For best performance and fewer damage to your board, aim for twice a month at the very least.
• Any Salt Buildup? Salty seas can also cause damage over time as salt deposits tend to accumulate on the surface of the board. To prevent this, rinse off your board with fresh or filtered water after each session, or at least once per week if possible.

 

Different Types of Cleaners for Different Types of Surfing Environments

It is important to select the right cleaner for your surfboard, depending on which type of surfing environment you are most likely to encounter.

Warm Water and a Soft Sponge

For most situations, warm water and a soft sponge will do the trick. This classic cleaning technique is simple and effective in removing dirt, dust and other debris from the surface of your surfboard.

Natural Citrus Based Products

Natural citrus-based items, such as lemon or orange juice, can be utilised to help eliminate bacteria without using harsh chemicals if you’re seeking for an environmentally friendly alternative. These goods are perfect for anyone who wants to protect the environment and keep their surfboard clean.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is another great natural product to use as a surfboard cleaner. Not only does it help remove dirt, it also acts as a protective layer against future damage by adding luster to the board’s finish.

Surfboard Cleaners

Finally, there are surfboard cleaners that were created with particular materials in mind, including fibreglass or polyester foam boards. These cleansers are made to leave behind an invisible coating that helps stop oxidation and other types of damage brought on by exposure to sea water while removing even the toughest crud from your board.

It’s best to make sure you select the right type of cleaner for your board material in order to get the best performance out of it! 

Maintenance Tips: How to Keep Your Surfboard Clean and Ready for the Water

Now that your surfboard is clean, it’s time to maintain it to ensure your rides are always smooth and easy.

Here are some tips to keep your board looking like new:

Wax Combo

Use a wax comb with a serrated side to soften any existing wax before you use a board cleaner. This will help protect the surface before you start the cleaning process.

Board Cleaner

Clean the surface of your board using a specifically-made surfboard cleaner, as regular detergents can cause damage to the board’s material. Apply the cleaner evenly across the entire surface and wipe off with a rag or soft cloth.

Re-Wax

Apply a coat of surf wax after properly cleaning and drying your board. Until there is an uniform layer covering any ridges or cracks, the wax should be evenly dispersed across the surfboard’s whole deck. It will be simpler for you to paddle out when surfing as a result of the garbage being kept out of these places.

Storing Your Board

When storing your surfboard, make sure it is in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight so that it stays in great condition for as long as possible.

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Conclusion

There are numerous factors to take into account when it comes to keeping your surfboard clean. Maintaining your board’s cleanliness not only makes it look wonderful, but it also helps to keep it in good working order and extends its life. A regular cleaning and maintenance schedule is vital for a number of reasons, including extending the life of your wetsuit and avoiding board damage. The ideal cleaning method for your board involves mixing warm water, a moderate solvent-free cleanser, and a soft brush or sponge. This will let you enjoy surfing to the fullest and maintain your board looking its best.