best solvent for cleaning fishing reels with 7 Top Picks

I remember the first time a favorite reel started grinding on me mid-cast – it was a real bummer and totally killed the vibe of the fishing trip. That experience taught me the hard way just how vital proper maintenance is, especially choosing the best solvent for cleaning fishing reels. You see, gunk, salt, and old grease can really mess things up, so I’ve spent a lot of time digging into what works best to keep those gears spinning smoothly.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Lew’s (SSC6) Speed Cleanz Reel Cleaner, 6-Ounce, Gentle…	View on Amazon
	CLENZOIL Marine & Tackle Reel Care Kit – with Fishing…	View on Amazon
	Ardent Reel Kleen Degrease Cleaner, 1 Pack, 16-Ounce -…	View on Amazon
	Ardent Saltwater Fishing Reel Cleaning and Maintenance Kit	View on Amazon
	PENN Reel Oil and Lube Angler Pack Clear, .5 oz	View on Amazon
	Ardent Reel Care Freshwater 3 Pack, Includes Reel Butter…	View on Amazon
	Ardent Reel Kleen Cleaning Kit for Freshwater Reel…	View on Amazon

1. Lew’s (SSC6) Speed Cleanz Reel Cleaner, 6-Ounce, Gentle…

Lew’s Speed Cleanz is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a straightforward, effective cleaner that won’t damage your delicate reel components. This 6-ounce bottle packs a punch, gently dissolving old grease and grime without the harsh chemicals often found in industrial solvents. It’s designed to be kind to your reel’s plastics and finishes, making it a reliable choice for routine cleaning.

Key features that stand out:
– Cleans and degreases fishing reels
– Gentle solvent cleaner without harsh evaporates
– Will not attack common plastics

Pros:
– Safe for most reel materials, including plastic components
– Effectively removes dirt and old lubricants
– Easy to use for quick cleaning sessions

Cons:
– May require a separate lubricant application after cleaning.

Best for: Anglers seeking a gentle yet effective standalone cleaner for routine maintenance.

Expert Opinion: This is a great starting point for anyone nervous about using strong chemicals on their reels. It’s safe, effective, and provides a clean slate for fresh lubrication.

2. CLENZOIL Marine & Tackle Reel Care Kit – with Fishing…

The CLENZOIL Marine & Tackle Reel Care Kit is a comprehensive solution for complete reel maintenance, especially if you fish in saltwater. It’s an all-in-one package that not only cleans but also lubricates and protects your reels from the harsh elements. The kit includes everything you need, from precision applicators to a microfiber cloth, ensuring you have all the right tools for a thorough job.

Key features that stand out:
– All-in-One Kit for Fishing Reels: Includes essential tools to clean, lubricate, and protect.
– Everything You Need: 1 oz needle oiler, 2 oz pump sprayer, fishing reel grease syringe, cotton swabs, microfiber cloth.
– Long-Lasting Protection: Provides superior lubrication in freshwater and saltwater.
– Precise Application: Grease in a 0.5 oz syringe for easy and accurate dispensing.
– All-American & Veteran Owned: A brand with a proud heritage.

Pros:
– Complete kit eliminates the need to buy separate tools or lubricants
– Offers excellent protection against corrosion, particularly in saltwater
– Precision applicators make detailed maintenance much easier

Cons:
– Might be more than a casual angler needs if they only want a simple cleaner.

Best for: Serious anglers and those who frequently fish in saltwater environments.

Expert Opinion: For thorough maintenance, especially in corrosive environments, an all-in-one kit like this is invaluable. It takes the guesswork out of what products to combine.

3. Ardent Reel Kleen Degrease Cleaner, 1 Pack, 16-Ounce -…

Ardent Reel Kleen Degrease Cleaner is a powerful solvent specifically designed to tackle stubborn grease and dirt on fishing reels and other mechanical components. This 16-ounce bottle provides plenty of cleaner for multiple uses, working by dissolving old lubricants and debris that can degrade your reel’s performance. What sets it apart is the inclusion of a corrosion inhibitor, adding a layer of protection as it cleans and dries, leaving behind a protective barrier.

Key features that stand out:
– Solvent developed for degreasing and cleaning fishing reels without harming components.
– Dissolves old grease and dirt effectively.
– Contains a corrosion inhibitor for added protection.
– Dries clean and leaves a protective barrier.

Pros:
– Excellent degreasing power for even heavily soiled reels
– Large 16-ounce size offers great value
– Provides corrosion protection, enhancing reel longevity

Cons:
– Requires careful application to avoid overspray on sensitive areas.

Best for: Anglers needing a powerful, protective degreaser for comprehensive reel overhauls.

Expert Opinion: This cleaner is fantastic for deep cleaning when a reel really needs a fresh start. The corrosion inhibitor is a big bonus, especially if you don’t immediately re-lube.

4. Ardent Saltwater Fishing Reel Cleaning and Maintenance Kit

The Ardent Saltwater Fishing Reel Cleaning and Maintenance Kit is tailor-made for battling the corrosive effects of salt, ensuring your saltwater reels stay in prime condition. This comprehensive kit includes everything from a powerful cleaner and corrosion inhibitor to lubricants, a cleaning cloth, a multi-purpose brush, a screwdriver, and reusable swabs. It’s designed to be convenient and effective, helping you fight back against salt-induced wear and tear.

Key features that stand out:
– COMPLETE: Has everything needed to keep all saltwater reels in tip-top condition.
– CONTAINS: Reel Guard Corrosion Inhibitor, Reel Kleen Reel Cleaner, Reel Butter Oil, Reel Butter Grease, cleaning cloth, multi-purpose brush, two-headed screwdriver, and reusable swabs.
– PREVENT CORROSION: Specifically formulated to fight back against salt-induced corrosion.
– CONVENIENT: Comes in a durable box for easy storage and portability.

Pros:
– Specifically formulated for the harshness of saltwater environments
– A truly comprehensive kit with tools and lubricants
– Durable storage box keeps everything organized and accessible

Cons:
– The full kit might be overkill for someone who only fishes freshwater.

Best for: Saltwater fishing enthusiasts who need a dedicated, all-inclusive maintenance solution.

Expert Opinion: This kit is a must-have for anyone serious about saltwater fishing. Preventing corrosion is key to reel longevity, and this package addresses that head-on.

5. PENN Reel Oil and Lube Angler Pack Clear, .5 oz

While not a solvent in itself, the PENN Reel Oil and Lube Angler Pack is an essential follow-up to using the best solvent for cleaning fishing reels. This pack includes a .5 oz bottle of synthetic reel oil and a 1 oz tub of grease, both engineered with proprietary technology to lubricate and prevent corrosion. PENN’s lubricants are renowned for their superior performance in saltwater environments, ensuring smoother operation, longer casting, and improved retrieval after your reel has been thoroughly cleaned.

Key features that stand out:
– Proprietary technology and formula to lubricate and prevent corrosion.
– Performs better in saltwater than other conventional lubes.
– Superior lubricity, water stability, load-carrying capacity, and rust protection in the grease.
– Synthetic reel oil for handle knobs, ball bearings, worm gears, line rollers.
– Assures optimum lubrication protection against corrosion and rust.

Pros:
– Proven superior performance, especially in saltwater conditions
– Specifically designed for various reel components (oil for moving parts, grease for gears)
– Extends reel life and improves operational smoothness

Cons:
– This pack is purely for lubrication and protection, not for initial cleaning.

Best for: Anglers who have already cleaned their reels and need top-tier lubrication for smooth performance and corrosion protection.

Expert Opinion: Don’t overlook the importance of quality lubrication after cleaning. PENN’s offerings are tried and true, especially if you’re battling saltwater.

6. Ardent Reel Care Freshwater 3 Pack, Includes Reel Butter…

The Ardent Reel Care Freshwater 3 Pack is an excellent choice for freshwater anglers who prioritize smooth performance and long-lasting protection for their reels. This pack includes Reel Butter Grease, Reel Kleen Cleaner, and Reel Butter Oil, providing a complete solution for cleaning and lubricating your gear. All lubricants are 100% synthetic, ensuring superior, long-lasting performance and reduced friction, while the Reel Kleen Cleaner preps the reel for optimal lubrication.

Key features that stand out:
– All-in-One Reel Care Solution: Reel Butter Grease, Reel Kleen Cleaner, and Reel Butter Oil.
– Superior Lubrication: 100% synthetic for long-lasting, ultra-smooth performance.
– Deep Cleaning Power: Reel Kleen Cleaner removes dirt, debris, and old grease.
– Protection Against Wear and Tear: Helps prevent corrosion and extend reel life.
– Trusted By Anglers: Developed by a brand dedicated to high-performance reel care.

Pros:
– Comprehensive cleaning and lubrication for freshwater reels
– Synthetic lubricants offer top-tier, long-lasting performance
– Easy to use components ensure a thorough maintenance routine

Cons:
– While effective, it’s primarily geared towards freshwater use, not heavy saltwater.

Best for: Freshwater anglers looking for an all-in-one kit to maintain their reels with premium synthetic lubricants.

Expert Opinion: This is a solid all-around kit for freshwater reels. The synthetic components of Ardent’s lubricants really do make a difference in feel and longevity.

7. Ardent Reel Kleen Cleaning Kit for Freshwater Reel…

The Ardent Reel Kleen Cleaning Kit for Freshwater Reels offers a convenient and comprehensive package specifically for freshwater reel maintenance. It features the powerful Reel Kleen Cleaner, a cleaning cloth, synthetic-tipped swabs, and a brush, ensuring you have the tools to thoroughly clean your reel. To complete the maintenance, the kit also includes Reel Butter Oil and Reel Butter Grease, ensuring your reel is properly lubricated after cleaning for optimal performance and longevity.

Key features that stand out:
– Features Reel Kleen Cleaner, cleaning cloth, 4 synthetic-tipped swabs, and a brush.
– Includes Reel Butter Oil and Reel Butter Grease for post-cleaning lubrication.
– Contains everything anglers need to maintain their reels, including a two-headed screwdriver.
– Routine cleaning and maintenance ensures longevity and performance.
– Convenient size fits perfectly in boat storage or a large tackle box.

Pros:
– A very complete kit with tools, cleaner, and lubricants for freshwater
– Compact and portable for on-the-go maintenance
– Easy to use for routine and detailed cleaning

Cons:
– The included screwdriver is basic, but still functional.

Best for: Freshwater anglers who want a comprehensive, portable cleaning and maintenance kit.

Expert Opinion: This kit simplifies freshwater reel care. Having the cleaner, lubricants, and tools all in one portable package means you’re always ready to keep your reels in top shape.

Helpful Comparison Short Insights

When picking the best solvent for cleaning fishing reels, it really comes down to your fishing environment and how comprehensive a solution you need. For those simply looking for a gentle, effective cleaner without harsh chemicals, the Lew’s Speed Cleanz is an excellent standalone option. If you’re a serious saltwater angler, the CLENZOIL Marine & Tackle Reel Care Kit or the Ardent Saltwater Fishing Reel Cleaning and Maintenance Kit are hands down your best bets, offering robust corrosion protection and all the necessary tools.

For deep cleaning and degreasing, especially on heavily used reels, Ardent Reel Kleen Degrease Cleaner shines with its powerful solvent and corrosion inhibitors. Meanwhile, if you’re a freshwater enthusiast, both the Ardent Reel Care Freshwater 3 Pack and the Ardent Reel Kleen Cleaning Kit for Freshwater Reel offer complete cleaning and lubrication solutions tailored to less corrosive conditions. Don’t forget, after cleaning with any solvent, quality lubrication is crucial; the PENN Reel Oil and Lube Angler Pack provides superior protection, especially when tackling saltwater.

Final Verdict

After going through these fantastic options, my top recommendation for the best solvent for cleaning fishing reels depends heavily on your specific needs. If you’re a freshwater angler seeking an all-in-one solution that’s easy to use and provides excellent lubrication, the Ardent Reel Care Freshwater 3 Pack stands out. It gives you the cleaner and the high-quality synthetic lubricants in one convenient package.

However, if saltwater fishing is your game, or you simply want the most robust, protective, and comprehensive kit available, then the CLENZOIL Marine & Tackle Reel Care Kit is truly hard to beat. Its combination of a powerful cleaner, precision tools, and long-lasting saltwater-ready lubrication and protection makes it an exceptional investment for the longevity of your gear. Ultimately, a clean, well-lubricated reel ensures your time on the water is spent fishing, not fighting your equipment.

FAQ Section

Q1: Why is it important to use a specific solvent for cleaning fishing reels?
A: Using the right best solvent for cleaning fishing reels is crucial because standard household cleaners can be too harsh, potentially damaging delicate reel components like plastics, seals, and specialized finishes. Dedicated reel solvents are formulated to dissolve old grease, dirt, and salt without causing harm, ensuring your reel functions optimally and lasts longer.

Q2: How often should I clean my fishing reels?
A: The frequency depends on how often you fish and the environment. For casual freshwater fishing, cleaning every 3-5 outings or once a season might be sufficient. If you fish frequently or in saltwater, a lighter cleaning after every few trips and a deep clean every 1-2 months is recommended to remove corrosive salt and grime.

Q3: Can I use WD-40 or similar multi-purpose sprays as a reel cleaner?
A: While WD-40 can act as a solvent, it’s generally not recommended as the best solvent for cleaning fishing reels. It can leave behind a residue that attracts dirt, and its lubricating properties are often insufficient or incompatible with specialized reel lubricants. It’s best to stick to products specifically designed for fishing reels.

Q4: What’s the difference between reel oil and reel grease?
A: Reel oil is thinner and used for high-speed, low-friction components like bearings, line rollers, and handle knobs, where smooth, rapid movement is desired. Reel grease is thicker and typically used for gears and worm shafts, providing cushioning, preventing wear, and offering more resistance to water wash-out. Both are essential for complete reel maintenance after using the best solvent for cleaning fishing reels.

Q5: Is it necessary to lubricate my reel immediately after cleaning with a solvent?
A: Yes, absolutely. Most cleaning solvents remove all existing lubricants. Leaving your reel unlubricated after cleaning can lead to increased friction, wear, and potential corrosion. Always re-oil and re-grease your reel’s components immediately after using the best solvent for cleaning fishing reels to ensure proper function and protection.

Q6: What tools do I need for basic reel cleaning, besides the solvent?
A: Beyond a good reel solvent, you’ll want some basic tools like cotton swabs, soft brushes (old toothbrushes work well for stubborn spots), a clean microfiber cloth, and potentially a small screwdriver set for disassembling basic components. Many of the kits reviewed provide these handy tools.

Q7: Can I use freshwater reel cleaner on saltwater reels?
A: While a freshwater cleaner will remove dirt and grease from a saltwater reel, it often lacks the specific corrosion inhibitors and protective qualities that saltwater-specific formulations offer. For maximum protection against the highly corrosive saltwater environment, it’s always best to use products designed for saltwater use, like the ones highlighted in our best solvent for cleaning fishing reels guide.