If your board feels slow on flat sections, the base is probably dirty. Old wax, dirt and grime build up and add friction. A base cleaner strips that off so fresh wax can soak in. Here are our picks, then how to choose one and how to use it.
The Best Snowboard Base Cleaners
- Best overall: Purl Base Cleaner (about $35). A citrus-based cleaner that is gentler on the environment.
- Best from a wax brand: Swix Base Cleaner (about $16). Works on sintered and extruded bases.
- Also good: One Ball Jay Base Cleaner (about $18). A biodegradable cleaner from One Ball.
1. Purl Base Cleaner: Best Overall
A citrus-based cleaner that removes wax and grime easily and is gentler on the environment. Our top pick for most riders.
2. Swix Base Cleaner: Best From a Wax Brand
A trusted cleaner from a major wax brand. Works on sintered and extruded bases. It comes as an aerosol spray, so it goes on fast and evenly.
3. One Ball Jay Base Cleaner: Also Good
One Ball is best known for its wax, and its base cleaner is a biodegradable liquid. The 8 oz bottle lasts for many cleanings. Pour a little on a cloth and wipe it over the base.
Why Clean Your Base
- Better glide: Dirt and old wax slow you down. A clean base is faster.
- Wax lasts longer: Fresh wax bonds better with a clean base.
- Less wear: Dirt in the base acts like sandpaper and wears it down over time.
Citrus vs Petroleum
- Citrus-based: Gentler on your base and the environment, with a mild smell. Fine for regular cleaning.
- Petroleum-based: Stronger solvents that dissolve wax and grime fast. Harsher on your base, with a strong smell. Use them for heavy buildup and only with good airflow.
- Wax remover wipes: Handy for quick cleanups between wax jobs.
- All-purpose cleaners: Fine for edges and bindings, but weaker on stubborn wax.
What to Look For
- Base compatibility: Most bases are sintered or extruded polyethylene. Check that the cleaner is safe for yours.
- Ease of use: A spray bottle is faster than a pour-and-wipe cleaner.
- Environmental impact: If that matters to you, choose citrus.
How to Clean Your Snowboard Base
- Set up. Put your board base-up on a stable surface somewhere with good airflow.
- Scrape off thick wax. Use a plastic scraper first if there is heavy buildup. Don't gouge the base.
- Apply the cleaner. Spray or wipe it evenly over the base.
- Let it soak. Wait a few minutes, or as long as the label says.
- Wipe it off. Use a clean, lint-free cloth and wipe from tip to tail with firm pressure.
- Repeat if needed. Very dirty bases may need a second pass.
- Let it dry completely, then wax.
If you don't have an iron and scraper yet, see the best snowboard wax kits or the best wax irons.
Tips
- Clean every few riding days, or after riding dirty spring snow.
- Brush after waxing. A base brush adds structure that helps glide.
- Store your board somewhere cool and dry, out of direct sunlight.
The Bottom Line
For regular cleaning, get Purl Base Cleaner. Then wax your board right after with one of the best snowboard waxes. A clean, freshly waxed base is the cheapest speed upgrade you can make.