How to wash a bike?

[Silverado]

I hate to admit this but when I read threads about people washing their bikes, I realize that I don't know the "proper" way to wash my bike.

So, please, would some of you share your bike washing techniques!

Thank you!

[Owlie]

First off, you'll need some degreaser (I use the Park Tool Chain Brite, but others have their preferences.) I clean the chain using one of those chain-cleaning things (I have the Park Tool Cyclone), and try not to make a huge mess while doing so. Then I clean the rear cogs with a rag with some degreaser on it. (It's easier to clean properly if you pop the rear wheel off and sort of "floss" between the cogs, but I don't always do that.) Then I clean the chainrings off as much as possible--I don't think there's a good way to do it without taking them off. Then re-lube the chain, and then clean everything else. The body of the brakes gets cleaned off with a wet rag, and then I wipe down the frame, rims, and spokes with Lemon Pledge.

I know other people use a hose for some of it, but I don't always have access to one.

[alpinerabbit]

For a quickie, a sponge and detergent(dishwashing[hand] or kitchen-grease-off) and a bucket, plus a toothbrush for the cogs&chain. Followed by an old rag.

rinse, dry, re-apply oil to chain&cogs.

[goldfinch]

How often do you do a complete cleaning, chain and all?

[Silverado]

Thank you so much, I had no idea. This makes me realize I have a lot to learn. What do you usually use to relube? You use Lemon Pledge for the frame, can you also use auto wax? And like Goldfinch asked, how often do you do a complete cleaning?

Thanks!

[Owlie]

More often than I do, probably. Like everything else, if I look at it and think "That's disgusting", it gets cleaned. I don't ride in the rain or in winter very much, so it doesn't get a whole lot of stuff on it.