An often overlooked stage of waxing your board (or skis) is cleaning the base. Waxing in dirt, debris or twigs is a big no-no!
But you don’t want to be throwing harsh chemicals onto your beloved gear. Cheap base cleaners use kerosene, a sure-fire way to dry out your base!
So I did some digging, a little research, some trial and error.Â
The best snowboard base cleaners are the:
- Purl Eco Ski and Snowboard Base Cleaner
- ONEBALL Citrus Base Cleaner
- Demon Hyper Universal Wax and Base Cleaner
- Swix Snowboard Base Cleaner
- Technichem JG Base Cleaner
Rest-assured, these are all free of kerosene and hazardous chemicals. Keep reading for the juicy details!
Snowboard Base Cleaner Overview
- Best Overall Ski and Snowboard Base Cleaner: Purl Eco
- Best Value Snowboard Base Cleaner: Oneball
- Best Base Cleaner Package Deal: Demon Package
Best Snowboard Base Cleaners
- Cleans Dirt and Contaminants from Ski & Snowboard Bases.
- 100% Organic. Biodegradable. Non Toxic.
- Easy to Use. Just Spray- Wipe- Dry. Will not dry out bases.
- Made in USA. 1% for the Planet.
- PURL WAX: Committed to performance and the environment! A Colorado Company, family-owned and operated since 1999, Purl Wax was founded to accelerate the transition to eco-friendly, fluoro-free ski and snowboard waxes. We proudly offer a full range of performance-driven ski and snowboard waxes hand-poured in the USA.
For the eco-conscious rider, the Purl Eco Base Cleaner is a fantastic option. Made from 100% natural and renewable resources, this cleaner effectively tackles dirt without harming the environment.
I found it equally effective compared to other chemical-based cleaners and appreciated the company’s commitment to eco-friendly practices. Purl are also an awesome, home-grown, USA based company that are worth supporting.Â
- Eco-Friendly: Made from 100% natural and renewable resources, supporting sustainable practices.
- Effective Cleaning: Efficiently removes wax, dirt, and grime without damaging the base.
- Non-Toxic: Free from harsh chemicals, making it safe for users.
- Support USA-based Small Businesses.
- Price: Slightly more expensive (although triple the quantity).
- Availability: High sell-out risk.
2. ONEBALL Citrus Base Cleaner
OneBallJay’s Base Cleaner is a more affordable option, but don’t let the price fool you. It does an excellent job at cleaning the base, leaving it smooth and ready for waxing.
I’ve found it particularly useful for quick clean-ups in between sessions. The spray bottle design also made the application simple and mess-free. Definitely one of this season’s best snowboard base cleaners!
- Affordable: Usually priced competitively, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
- Convenient Application: Spray bottle design for an easy, mess-free application.
- Good Performance: Effective at removing old wax and cleaning the base.
- Not Specifically Eco-Friendly: Lacks the same environmental considerations as some other brands.
- Mild Residue: Sometimes leaves a slight residue, requiring extra wiping.
3. Demon Hyper Universal Wax and Citrus Base Cleaner
- Demon's Premium Hyper 1 LB Big Block Universal Wax and Demon's 4.OZ Citrus Base
- Proprietary blend guarantees speed and smiles
- Optimal Univeral Blend is perfect for use in any snow and weather temperature
- Our exclusive formual is developed and manufactured in the USA
- Clean your base with the Citrus Cleaner and then wax with the Hyper wax
The Demon Universal Wax and Base Cleaner package is more than just a cleaner; it’s a complete TLC package for your snowboard.
If you’re looking for an all-in-one package that covers cleaning and waxing, this might be the option for you.
It’s versatility makes it excellent value for those wanting to invest in their boards’ future.Â
- All-in-One Package: Includes base cleaner and all-temp wax, offering great value.
- Citrus-Based Cleaner: Less harsh on your snowboard and has a pleasant scent.
- Excellent Customer Feedback.
- Quality: Good quality products, but doesn't quite compare to Purls' option.
- No Option to Buy The Base Cleaner Separately.
4. Swix Snowboard Base Cleaner
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This option from Swix is a super quick, super affordable base cleaner solution. As it comes in aerosol form, it’s great for chucking into your travel bag.Â
Swix are also a highly reputable and highly tested company; making some of the best snowboard base cleaners in the business.Â
- Quick-Drying: Reducing the waiting time needed before re-waxing.
- A Highly Trusted Brand: Swix have been in the snow sports industry for decades!
- Reasonably Priced.
- A Super-Handy Aerosol Canister.
- Smell: Not as "scent-free" as Swix advertise.
- Quantity: I found it ran out fairly quickly (although I did spray quite generously).
5. Technichem JG Base Cleaner
- removes old wax and cleans skis and snowbords
- non-toxic and non-hazardous formula
- easy to use
- pleasant citrus scent
A new entry this year, but still one of the best snowboard base cleaners I’ve tried.Â
Admittedly, it is technically a “ski” base cleaner. But we won’t hold that against them!
- Citrus Based: A pleasant, toxin-free smell and cleaner.
- Longevity: Lasts ages - only needs a small amount on a dry cloth, rather then spraying on in large quantities.
- Trusted by Snowboard Shops
- Support Small Business.
- Less Well-Known: Fewer customer reviews.
Why Use a Snowboard Base Cleaner?
- Removes Dirt and Grime: Snowboarding exposes your board to various contaminants like dirt, oil, and grime. A good base cleaner will effectively remove these, leaving your board’s base clean and smooth.
- Preps for Waxing: A base cleaner helps in stripping away the old wax, preparing the surface for a fresh application. This ensures that the new wax adheres properly, providing better glide and protection.
- Improves Performance: A clean base allows for smoother glides, sharper turns, and more responsive handling. It reduces friction and drag, helping you gain speed and control.
- Extends Lifespan: By keeping the base clean and in good condition, you can prolong the life of your snowboard.
- Environmentally Friendly Options: Many base cleaners are designed with eco-friendly ingredients. These not only do an excellent job of cleaning but also minimize harm to the environment.
How to Choose a Snowboard Base Cleaner
Maintaining your snowboard’s base is critical to ensure optimum performance, smooth glides, and a long-lasting ride.
A key part of this maintenance is selecting the right base cleaner. Here’s how to do it.
1. Determine Your Needs
First, establish what you need from a base cleaner. Are you looking for a product to remove old wax, dirt, or both? Understanding your needs will guide your choice.
Personally – I’d avoid “wax removers” as these use extremely harsh chemicals. Instead, grab a decent wax scraper and scrape down the excess wax before cleaning.Â
2. Consider the Environment
If environmental sustainability is a priority for you (it should be!), look for eco-friendly cleaners. These are typically made from natural ingredients and are biodegradable. Brands like Purl Eco Base Cleaner are renowned for their environmentally conscious products.
3. Ease of Application
Look for a cleaner that is easy to apply. Spray bottles and easy-pour lids can make the application process less messy and way more efficient.
4. Residue-Free Cleaning
The cleaner should dry quickly without leaving any residue. Otherwise it can interfere with waxing or affect the snowboard’s performance. Most quality base cleaners are designed to evaporate, leaving the base ready for waxing.
5. Budget
Snowboard base cleaners are available in various price ranges. Determine your budget and find a cleaner that fits within it without compromising on quality.
6. All-in-One Packages
If you want a comprehensive solution, consider a package like the Demon Universal Wax and Base Cleaner.Â
7. Fragrance and Ingredients
Some base cleaners come with nice fragrances like citrus or are made from non-harsh chemicals. If you have sensitivities or prefer a specific scent, take these factors into account. Don’t worry though, the above options all smell nice!
8. Check Reviews and Recommendations
Sometimes, the best guidance comes from fellow snowboarders who’ve tried and tested various products (like me!). Look for reviews online or ask for recommendations at your local snowboarding shop.
Alternatives to Snowboard Base Cleaners
Some rider’s swear by homemade cleaning concoctions. Most of these are citrus based, made in a plea to avoid kerosene based products. These days, there’s simply no need to do this. Save your time and energy.Â
Another relic of the past is “the hot scrape”. This involves dripping excess all-temp snowboard wax onto the base, and scraping it off before it dries. In theory this removes any dirt, old wax and debris.Â
Does hot scraping work? Sure. But you’ll go through a hell of a lot of wax (and effort). I personally see this as a false economy. I prefer a base cleaner.Â
Final Thoughts
Finding the right snowboard base cleaner is crucial for maintaining your snowboard’s performance and longevity.
Please, please, please don’t use harsh chemicals on your board!
Over the years, the products mentioned above have proven their effectiveness and reliability. If in doubt, go with the Purl Eco Base Cleaner.
Remember, regular cleaning and maintenance will not only enhance your riding experience but also save you money in the long run by keeping your snowboard in top condition.
Happy shredding!Â
FAQ's
Your most frequently asked questions - answered!
You can clean a snowboard base using a specialized snowboard base cleaner, which is designed to remove old wax, dirt, and oils. Some riders prefer citrus-based cleaners, which work equally well.Â
Whilst Goo-Gone is not technically recommended for cleaning snowboard bases, it can be useful for removing stubborn stains and substances. However, use with caution as it can leave an unwanted residue.
Overall, it’s best to use a cleaner specifically formulated for snowboard bases.
Ski bases can be cleaned with the same specialized base cleaner products as snowboards. It’s important to use products that won’t damage the base material.
Whilst you can use Isopropyl Alcohol (rubbing alcohol) to clean your snowboard base, it does have a tendency to dry the base out.Â
Using a specific snowboard base cleaner is recommended.Â
Yes, using a base cleaner before waxing is recommended. Cleaning the base ensures that old wax, dirt, and oils are removed, allowing the new wax to adhere properly, improving performance and durability.
Just make sure the base cleaner has had chance to dry before applying more wax!
To use citrus base cleaner on a snowboard, apply the cleaner to a clean cloth or directly to the base, and then scrub the base using a brush or cloth. Focus on areas with old wax or dirt. After cleaning, wipe off any excess cleaner and allow the base to dry before applying new wax.
