Weekend riders
A degreaser and a brush every few weeks keeps everything running sweetly.
Bike chain cleaner: what works best
A clean chain shifts better, runs quieter and lasts longer. Here is how we choose between degreasers, cleaning tools and brushes, and how to fit them into a quick routine.
Which chain cleaner do you need?
Five ways to clean from our range, plus one for a chain past saving.
DEGREASERS
Degreasers that cut through old lube and grime.
What to prioritise
Deep clean
Bike Chain Lubes & Cleaners
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SPRAY CLEANERS
Aerosol drivetrain cleaner options for quick, targeted cleans.
What to prioritise
Fast clean
Bike Chain Lubes & Cleaners
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CHAIN TOOLS
A chain cleaning device option for a tidier scrub.
What to prioritise
Less mess
Bike Chain Lubes & Cleaners
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BRUSHES
Brushes for scrubbing cassettes, chainrings and tight gaps.
What to prioritise
Reach every gap
Bike Chain Lubes & Cleaners
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BIKE WASH
Whole-bike cleaners to finish the job after the chain.
What to prioritise
Frame and wheels
Bike Chain Lubes & Cleaners
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PAST SAVING?
Replacement chains for when cleaning no longer helps.
What to prioritise
Fresh start
Bike Cassettes, Drivetrains & Chains
Shop the RangeWhat to look for in a chain cleaner
The right degreaser
Degreasers break down old lube so it can be rinsed away. Plant-based formulas are a gentler choice for cleaning at home. Whatever you use, rinse well so no degreaser is left inside the rollers.
How much mess you can handle
A chain cleaning device keeps the liquid inside a box while brushes scrub the links, which suits a balcony or garage. A rag and brush is simpler but messier. Pick the method you'll actually keep up.
Brushes for the hard bits
The chain is only part of the drivetrain. A stiff brush lifts grime from the cassette, chainrings and derailleur pulleys. Skip them and a freshly cleaned chain gets dirty again fast.
Brake-safe habits
Keep oily cleaners and lubes off disc rotors and pads, and spray away from the brakes. If you think a rotor has been contaminated, a dedicated brake cleaner or a bike shop check is the safe move.
Who this suits
Daily commuters
Road grime builds quickly, so a weekly wipe and a regular deeper clean help.
Mountain bikers
Mud and grit wear drivetrains fast, so a proper clean after muddy rides pays off.
Chain cleaners at a glance
| Cleaner | Best for | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Degreaser | Removing old lube and grime | Rinse well and dry before lubing |
| Spray cleaner | Quick, targeted drivetrain cleans | Aim away from brake rotors |
| Chain cleaning device | Less mess at home | Use fresh degreaser each time |
| Cleaning brushes | Cassettes, chainrings and pulleys | Keep one brush just for the drivetrain |
| Bike wash | Frame, wheels and everything else | Wash first, then lube last |
| Replacement chain | Wear that cleaning can't fix | Check wear with a chain checker |
A simple cleaning routine
- Shift into a middle gear and keep the bike upright on a stand or against a wall.
- Rinse gently after degreasing and dry the chain fully with a clean rag.
- Re-lube straight after cleaning, as a bare chain can rust quickly.
- Store degreasers and sprays away from heat and out of reach of children.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I clean my bike chain?
Give it a quick wipe every few rides and a proper degrease whenever it looks black and gritty, or after muddy or wet rides. Daily all-weather commuters will need to clean more often than fair-weather riders. A clean chain is quieter, shifts better and wears more slowly.
Can I clean my chain without taking it off?
Yes. Most riders clean the chain on the bike, using a degreaser with a brush or a chain cleaning device. Taking the chain off is only really needed for a very deep clean or for waxing, and it needs a chain tool or quick link pliers.
Is degreaser safe for my bike?
Bike-specific degreasers are made for drivetrains and are safe on most frames and parts when used as directed. Keep them off brake pads and disc rotors, avoid soaking hub and bottom bracket bearings, and rinse well afterwards. Check the label for any surfaces it shouldn't touch.
Can I use a pressure washer on my chain?
We'd avoid it. High-pressure water can push grit into bearings and strip grease from hubs, headsets and the bottom bracket. A gentle hose or bucket, a brush and a good bike cleaner do the job without the risk.
Do I need to lube my chain after cleaning?
Always. Degreaser strips away the lube along with the dirt, so a clean chain is unprotected and can rust or wear quickly. Let it dry, add chain lube to each roller, then wipe off the excess.
Explore our Top Sports
A cleaner chain, a better ride
A regular clean is the simplest way to keep your drivetrain quiet and lasting. Browse our maintenance range for everything else your bike needs.
Free delivery on orders over $150. Members get our lifetime warranty.
