Roller skating is a popular activity among kids, and it’s no surprise that parents want to take good care of their kids’ roller skates. Proper care and maintenance of roller skates not only extends their life but also ensures safety and enhances performance. However, many parents make common mistakes in roller skate care, which can lead to damage and reduced lifespan of the skates.
Mistake 1: Not Cleaning the Skates After Use
One of the most common mistakes parents make in kids roller skate care is not cleaning the skates after use. Roller skates are prone to dirt and dust accumulation, which can cause damage to the bearings and wheels over time. Failing to clean the skates after use also means that any moisture, such as sweat, will remain on the skates, leading to rusting and corrosion over time.
Solution: The easiest way to clean roller skates is to wipe them down with a dry cloth after use. If the skates are particularly dirty, you can use a damp cloth and mild soap to clean them. Be sure to dry the skates thoroughly after cleaning to prevent rusting and corrosion.
Mistake 2: Not Lubricating the Bearings
Another common mistake parents make in roller skate care is not lubricating the bearings. Bearings are responsible for the smooth movement of the wheels, and if they are not lubricated, they can become noisy, slow, or even break down over time. Lack of lubrication can also cause wear and tear, leading to premature replacement of the bearings.
Solution: Lubricate the bearings regularly, depending on how often the skates are used. You can use a lubricant specifically designed for roller skate bearings, or you can use a light machine oil. To lubricate the bearings, remove the wheels and shields, clean the bearings, and apply a few drops of lubricant to each bearing. Be sure to wipe off any excess lubricant to prevent attracting dirt and dust to the bearings.
Mistake 3: Over Tightening the Trucks
The trucks are the metal parts that connect the wheels to the skate boot. Over tightening the trucks can cause the wheels to stop spinning freely, leading to poor performance and a less enjoyable skating experience. It can also cause damage to the wheels and bearings over time.
Solution: Tighten the trucks just enough to keep the wheels secure, but not too tight that they stop spinning freely. You should be able to wiggle the wheels slightly from side to side, but they should not move back and forth. If the truck bolts are too tight, loosen them slightly until you achieve the desired level of tightness.
Mistake 4: Storing the Skates in a Damp Place
Storing roller skates in a damp place can cause rusting and corrosion, which can damage the bearings and wheels over time. It can also cause the boot and other parts of the skate to deteriorate quickly.
Solution: Store roller skates in a dry and cool place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid storing the skates in areas such as basements, garages, or damp closets. If the skates get wet, dry them thoroughly before storing them.
Mistake 5: Using the Skates on Rough Surfaces
Roller skates are designed for use on smooth surfaces such as indoor rinks or smooth outdoor pavements. Using the skates on rough surfaces such as gravel, concrete, or grass can cause damage to the wheels and bearings over time.
Solution: Limit the use of roller skates to smooth surfaces only. If you must use the skates on rough surfaces, be sure to clean and lubricate the bearings more frequently to prevent damage.
Mistake 6: Not Checking for Loose Screws
Roller skates have a lot of screws that hold different parts of the skate together. Over time, these screws can become loose due to constant use, causing the skates to rattle, making noise, or even falling apart.
Solution: Check the skates regularly for loose screws and tighten them as needed. You can use a screwdriver or a wrench to tighten the screws. Be sure not to over tighten the screws, as this can cause damage to the skate parts.
Mistake 7: Not Replacing Worn Out Wheels
Wheels are an essential part of roller skates, and they wear out over time due to constant use. Worn-out wheels can cause poor performance, reduced speed, and even accidents due to loss of control.
Solution: Replace worn-out wheels as soon as you notice signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, flat spots, or uneven wear. You can buy replacement wheels online or at a local sports store. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when replacing the wheels to avoid damaging the skates.
