Top electric scooters will last anywhere from three to five years, with some models lasting even longer than that. If you want to maximize the lifespan of your scooter you should regularly clean and maintain the unit.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Electric scooters should be cleaned regularly to maximize their effectiveness and overall lifespan.
- You should gather up cleaning supplies, such as a microfiber cloth, and take care to cover up the battery recharge port.
- Clean slowly and carefully, allowing time to remove caked-in dirt. Afterward, leave it to dry for a few hours.
Benefits of Cleaning an Electric Scooter
There are many benefits to cleaning an electric scooter. These include an increased maximum lifespan, better overall efficiency, and an aesthetically pleasing exterior. For an even more increased lifespan, learn how to check your e-scooter motor regularly.
How to Clean Your Electric Scooter
The process to clean an electric scooter will differ slightly depending on your make and model, but we have assembled a list of universal tips and guidelines to follow.
Gather Up Your Supplies
The first thing you should do is gather up any cleaning supplies you may need. You can never go wrong with a microfiber cloth or two, though the liquid cleaning agents may differ depending on your individual scooter. We recommend checking with your scooter manufacturer or reading the instructions to figure out what cleaning agents are good to use with your model. If your scooter can be cleaned with water, have a bucket with water at the ready. Other useful supplies include sponges, toothbrushes, biodegradable soap, and towels.
Insider Tip
Other useful supplies include sponges, toothbrushes, biodegradable soap, and towels.
Cover up Any Ports
You should cover up any of the scooter’s ports with duct tape before beginning the cleaning process, including the battery recharge port. This will prevent these ports from becoming wet as you go about using your preferred cleaning liquid. A plastic bag can be taped onto the port if duct tape doesn’t work. Remember to also tape up the ground wire when deactivating the kill switch on your e-scooter.
Rinse-Off Loose Dirt
If your scooter can be cleaned with water, be sure to carefully rinse off any dirt and debris that may have become lodged throughout the exterior of the scooter. Pay close attention to the tires, as dirt and debris can easily become tangled within the components.
Insider Tip
A plastic bag can be taped onto the port if duct tape doesn’t work.
Carefully Scrub the Scooter
Using a microfiber cloth, a clean towel, or a clean rag, carefully begin to scrub the scooter. Go slowly and be gentle, as electric scooters are complicated pieces of equipment. Oil and caked-in dirt will require a bit of effort, so keep at it until the scooter is cleaned. Also, use an old toothbrush to reach out of the way places.
Let the Scooter Dry
Now you are done with the work. Just let the scooter dry out for an hour or two until you begin to use it again.
Warning
We recommend checking with your scooter manufacturer or reading the instructions to figure out what cleaning agents are good to use with your model.
F.A.Q.
Aren’t scooters waterproof?
Not necessarily. Most scooters feature some form of water resistance, but that is not the same thing as being waterproof. Be sure to look up the resistance rating before you begin the cleaning process.
How to waterproof an electric scooter?
We recommend investing in a waterproof case to stuff the scooter in when it is not being used. Additionally, try to avoid severe rainstorms as they can damage the scooter’s internal components.
How to extend the life of an electric scooter?
Cleaning and maintaining the scooter regularly should extend its lifespan. You should pay special attention to the battery, taking care to never let it fully deplete and to max it out at around a 90 percent charge.
STAT: Scooters marked IPX7 are 100% waterproof and can be fully immersed in water for up to 30 minutes, up to 1 meter (~3 feet) deep. (source)
