Ultrasonic cleaners

[eein]

I was wondering if anyone has used a cheap (ie <£50) ultrasonic cleaner for bike parts? I was thinking about getting one for things like chain cleaning.

I can clean by hand (with one of those parktool widgets that clamps on to the chain) fairly easily, so it's only worth doing if I get a cheap one, plenty on Amazon. But I don't trust the reviews there, so looking for any first hand experience here.

I'm often taking my bike with me when travelling on work, and then use it indoors on the turbo when home, so find myself cleaning it often.

[jrb43]

Yep. Can't remember where I got mine from but relatively small. Big enough for a chain, a cassette and a few other bits. I fill it with degreaser from Screwfix which is worryingly cheap but seems to do a cracking job.

[thisnameistaken]

I use one too, it’s very effective. Chains and components come up great and completely clean. I then hot wax my chains in a slow cooker.

The only real issue is how much it costs in quick links. Even though they’re single use I use them till they’re not as tight but the cost still adds up.

[eein]

Thanks - good to get confirmation. I'll look to pick one up.

I also reuse the links lots - my cycling and bike are not at a level to get too obsessed.

[ian in lancs]

Some info here about using ultrasonic cleaners for bike bits
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ndGpRVC2BU

Links in the video notes

[Barchettaman]

jrb43 said:

Yep. Can't remember where I got mine from but relatively small. Big enough for a chain, a cassette and a few other bits. I fill it with degreaser from Screwfix which is worryingly cheap but seems to do a cracking job.

Exactly the same set up in my workshop, and can concur.

I am currently using Bilt Hamber Surfex as a degreaser in it and it’s even better than the Screwfix stuff albeit more expensive.