Chain Cleaning 101: How to Clean Your Bike Chain Without Making a Mess

You’re pedaling along, feeling good, and then… there it is. That dry, creaky squeal that makes your bike sound like it’s auditioning for a horror movie.

We get it. Cleaning your chain feels like one of those “bike people” things. But here’s the truth: it’s easy. And it makes your ride way better. Smoother shifts, less wear on your parts, and you don’t have to listen to your drivetrain scream for help.

Wrench and Roll Service Crew

At Wrench & Roll, we clean chains every day—on old cruisers, high-end carbon frames, and everything in between. Here’s how you can do it yourself, without turning your garage into a grease puddle.

Step 1: Keep It Simple

You don’t need a full shop setup. Here’s what helps:

• A rag or two you don’t mind ruining

• A basic chain cleaning tool or an old toothbrush

• Bike-specific degreaser (trust us—don’t use dish soap)

• Chain lube (wet or dry, depending on the weather)

Need help choosing lube? We stock the good stuff on our sales floor and can walk you through what to use for La Crosse summers vs. spring trail gunk.

Step 2: Wipe, Degrease, Scrub

Shift into your smallest rear cog so the chain’s easy to access.

Then:

1. Wipe the chain down with a dry rag to remove loose grime

2. Apply degreaser and let it soak in for 1–2 minutes

3. Use your brush (or chain cleaner tool) to scrub the links

4. Wipe it all down again—get it as clean as you can

   
   

Not sure if you’re scrubbing too hard or not enough? Bring your bike by the shop. We’ll show you what “clean enough” actually looks like. No appointment needed.

Step 3: Lube It Up, Wipe It Down

Once your chain’s dry, apply lube one drop at a time, working through the chain slowly as you pedal backward. Then—this is important—wipe off the excess.

If your chain feels sticky or looks wet after lubing, you’ve probably got too much on there. Less is more.

Still unsure? We offer quick chain service in-store if you’d rather let us handle the mess.

How Often Should You Do This?

Short answer: more than you think.

• If you ride in dry conditions: once every 100–150 miles

• If you ride in the rain or on gravel: after every few rides

• If it sounds bad: it’s already overdue

We’ve had folks come in with chains that haven’t seen lube since 2006. You’re not alone. No judgment here.

Your Bike Deserves Better (and So Do Your Ears)

Chain cleaning doesn’t have to be a whole project. Keep a rag and bottle of lube near where you store your bike, and just make it part of your routine.

Want help choosing tools? Curious what the difference is between wax lube and oil-based? Come by the shop. We’ll walk you through it like real humans. No bike snob energy, we promise.

Browse more DIY tips on our Bike La Crosse blog, or contact us for a quick tune-up if your drivetrain’s already crying for help.