Checklist For Cleaning And Storing Surfboards

Q: How can I tell if my board has absorbed water?

After storage, check your surfboard for signs of water damage: extra weight, slight swelling, a duller appearance than when dry, or soft spots that feel “spongy” under gentle pressure. If you spot any of these signs, dry the board thoroughly and check the rails and fin boxes for possible leaks. If you’re unsure, a repair shop can pressure-test it.

Published on

26.10.26

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My surfboard care routine comes down to 4 steps: rinse, remove worn wax, check for damage, and store it dry. After every surf, I rinse off salt and sand, then dry the board and bag separately.

Rinse and dry: I clean the board and fittings without soaking open dings, then let everything dry in the shade.
Remove wax when needed: I use a plastic wax comb and a board-approved cleaner - no metal blades or added heat.
Check for damage: I inspect the board, fins, and leash plug, and get water-entry damage repaired before surfing again.
Store safely: I use padded support away from sun, heat, and moisture. For long-term storage, I remove the leash and removable fins as directed.

My rule: <u>never pack a damp board</u>. I also follow the board maker’s care instructions, especially for soft tops, which need gentler cleaning.

Surfboard Cleaning and Storage: 4-Step Checklist

Checklist: Rinse and Dry After Each Surf

Rinse the Board and Fittings

[ ] Rinse the deck, bottom, and rails with clean water from a tap or hose. Wash sand off rather than rubbing it into the surface.
[ ] Flush the fins, fin boxes, and leash plug. Focus on crevices where grit collects, but don’t force sand deeper into the fittings. Salt left behind can corrode hardware.
[ ] Keep water away from dings. If a ding could let water reach the core, don’t soak that spot. Arrange an inspection or repair.

Dry the Board and Board Bag

[ ] Wipe the board with a soft, clean towel. Let it finish drying in the shade with good airflow. Keep it out of direct sunlight and hot parked vehicles.
[ ] Dry the fin boxes and leash plug before packing, even if the deck already feels dry.
[ ] Dry the leash and board bag separately before storing them. Trapped moisture causes mildew and odors. Once the board is fully dry, move on to old wax removal.

How to Clean Your Surfboard

Checklist: Remove Old Wax Safely

Once the board is dry, remove old wax only if it’s dirty, uneven, or losing grip. Use a plastic wax comb and a cleaner approved for your board.

Soften, Scrape, and Wipe Off Wax

[ ] Soften the wax at room temperature. Don’t use heat guns, boiling water, or direct sun.
[ ] Scrape gently with a plastic wax comb. Avoid metal blades, which can scratch the surface.
[ ] Wipe off any residue. Choose a remover approved for your board’s materials.
[ ] Check the board for dings once all the wax is off.

Compare Wax Tools and Cleaners

Tool or cleaner	Surface safety	Recommendation
Plastic wax comb	Best for routine removal; use gently	First choice
Citrus-based remover	Use only if approved for your board	Conditional use
Metal scraper	Can scratch or damage the surface	Not recommended

Checklist: Inspect Dings and Hardware

Once the wax is off, inspect your board before storing it.

Check the Board, Fins, and Leash Plug

[ ] Check the nose, tail, rails, deck, and bottom for cracks, splits, pinholes, exposed foam, and dents.
[ ] Look for discoloration, soft spots, or delamination, especially around fittings.
[ ] Check the fins, fin boxes, screws, and leash plug for looseness or cracks.

Decide What Needs Repair Before Surfing

Separate cosmetic wear from damage that needs repair. Fix any damage before your next surf, including cracks, pinholes, exposed foam, and soft spots.

Checklist: Store Your Board Safely

After cleaning and inspecting your board, store it in a cool, dry place until your next session.

Prepare Racks, Bags, and Accessories

Choose a shaded spot indoors. Avoid damp rooms, direct sunlight, and hot vehicles.

[ ] Use padded racks or secure upright storage so the board can’t slide or tip. Avoid concentrated pressure on the rails, nose, tail, and fittings.
[ ] Keep heavy objects off the board. For added protection, use a clean, dry board sock or bag.
[ ] For extended storage, remove the leash and removable fins according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Dry accessories separately, and keep screws and other hardware together.

Compare Between-Session and Long-Term Storage

Some storage steps depend on how soon you’ll use the board again.

Storage task	Between sessions	Long-term storage
Fins and leash	Usually leave attached.	Remove removable fins and the leash; keep hardware together.
Bag ventilation	Avoid trapping moisture.	Allow ventilation rather than sealing in damp air.

Check both the bag and board for moisture or mold before storing them again.

Conclusion: Final Storage Checklist

[ ] Rinse: Rinse off all salt and sand.
[ ] Wax: Remove old or dirty wax.
[ ] Dryness: Make sure the board and bag are fully dry.
[ ] Damage: Check dings and fittings. Complete or schedule repairs, and keep damaged spots dry until fixed.
[ ] Storage: Support the board evenly, away from sun, heat, and moisture.

FAQs

How can I tell if my board has absorbed water?

After storage, check your surfboard for signs of water damage: extra weight, slight swelling, a duller appearance than when dry, or soft spots that feel “spongy” under gentle pressure.

If you spot any of these signs, dry the board thoroughly and check the rails and fin boxes for possible leaks. If you’re unsure, a repair shop can pressure-test it.

How should I clean a soft-top surfboard?

After every session, gently rinse your soft-top surfboard with clean, salt-free water to wash off salt, sand, and debris. Skip harsh chemicals and abrasive brushes - they can damage the foam deck. If needed, wipe the surface with mild, eco-friendly soap and a soft cloth.

Before storing your board, let it dry completely in the shade, away from direct sunlight.

Should I remove wax before long-term storage?

Yes, remove the wax before storing your surfboard long-term. Old wax can hold dirt, debris, and moisture against the fiberglass, which may cause discoloration or pressure dings over time. Taking it off also lets you check the deck for cracks or dings that need repair before storage.