Even the best climbing holds lose their magic over time if they’re caked in chalk, rubber, and sweat. Dirty holds don’t just look bad—they’re slippery, hard on skin, and can make your training less effective.
At Ledge Climbing, we make small-batch holds that last—but keeping them clean is key to maintaining performance. Here’s your guide to cleaning holds the right way without damaging them.
Why Holds Get Slippery
-
Chalk build-up – A fine layer of dust that clogs texture
-
Rubber marks – From climbing shoes smearing on holds
-
Skin oils & sweat – Reduce friction and darken surfaces
Over time, this grime polishes the surface, making holds feel “glassy.”
Cleaning Methods
1. The Quick Fix: Brushing
-
Use a soft bristle brush (nylon for plastic holds)
-
Brush between attempts during sessions to keep holds grippy
2. The Deep Clean: Soaking
-
Remove holds from your wall
-
Soak in warm water with mild dish soap for 20–30 minutes
-
Scrub gently with a soft brush
-
Rinse thoroughly and air-dry completely before reinstallation
3. The Volume Treatment
For large volumes, wipe with a damp cloth and avoid oversaturating the wood or surface coating.
What to Avoid
-
Pressure washers – Can damage texture on polyurethane holds
-
Harsh chemicals – Can weaken material and alter color
-
Wire brushes – Will scratch and wear down texture
How Often Should You Clean Holds?
-
High-traffic walls: every 1–2 months
-
Home walls: every 3–6 months, depending on use
-
Wipe down and brush regularly between deep cleans
Why Ledge Holds Stay Grippy Longer
Our holds are:
-
Designed with texture that resists glazing
-
Made from high-quality polyurethane
-
Hand-shaped to encourage natural grip positions (less polishing from over-gripping)
👉 Browse Our Durable, Low-Maintenance Holds
Clean Holds = Better Sessions.
A small investment of time in cleaning means more friction, better training, and longer-lasting gear.
Do you want me to make a wide-format header image for this blog post?