A strong bicycle chain cleaner removes grease and grit without stressing compatible drivetrain materials, making it useful for commuters, trail riders, and routine home maintenance. This roundup covers 10 options ranging from standalone fluids and aerosol degreasers to chain-scrubbing machines, brush sets, and complete kits with lubricant. The main choice is between a targeted cleaner for a specific job and a bundled system that reduces the need to buy separate brushes or lube.
Formula details also matter: several products identify as biodegradable or plant-based, while others emphasize foaming penetration, residue-free evaporation, or heavy-duty cleaning. Check the included tools, fluid volume, chain compatibility, and whether your bike needs follow-up lubrication before choosing.
The best chain cleaner bicycle option depends on the job: Park Tool CG-2.4 is the most complete system here, combining a chain scrubber, gear brush, and plant-based cleaner; WD-40 Specialist Bike Degreaser suits users wanting foaming, pH-neutral degreasing in a 10-ounce container; Finish Line Speed Bike Degreaser targets heavy buildup with a residue-free aerosol; and complete kits from focopot, Ultrafashs, or YIMAX add brushes and lubricant. Muc-Off supplies a dedicated cleaning machine, while WEFOO provides reusable brushes only.
Chain Cleaner Comparison: Performance and Ease of Use
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1 ![]() | WD-40 Specialist Bike Degreaser , 10 OZ Best for: Quick spray degreaser Brand: WD-40 Bike | Container Type: container | View on Amazon |
Best Pick 2 ![]() | Park Tool CG-2.4 – Chaingang Cleaning System,Blue Best for: Full chain cleaning system Brand: Park Tool | Capacity: 1 fluid ounces | View on Amazon |
Best Pick 3 ![]() | Park Tool CB-4 Bio ChainBrite Bicycle Chain & Component Cleaning Fluid – 16 fl oz/472 ml Bottle Best for: Biodegradable cleaning fluid Brand: Park Tool | Item Form: Liquid | View on Amazon |
Best Pick 4 ![]() | focopot Bike Cleaning Kit with Bike Chain Degreaser,Scrubber,Lube Best for: All-in-one cleaning kit Brand: focopot | Included Components: Chain Scrubber,Wheel Brush,Chain Cleaning Brush | View on Amazon |
Best Pick 5 ![]() | Bike Cleaning Kit – Complete Bicycle Maintenance Set with Degreaser, Lubricant, Chain Scrubber & Brushes for Mountain, Road, MTB, E-bikes Best for: Comprehensive maintenance set Brand: Ultrafashs | Item Form: Liquid | View on Amazon |
How We Compared These Products
We compared dimensions, capacity, materials, compatibility, included components, and care requirements across many Amazon listings. These details matter because the product must fit the available space, intended use, setup requirements, and maintenance routine. After examining the wider field, we selected 10 products from WD-40 Bike, Park Tool, focopot, Ultrafashs, Finish Line, Muc-Off, YIMAX, WD-40, and WEFOO.
The shortlist includes products such as WD-40 Bike WD-40 Specialist Bike Degreaser, Park Tool CG-2.4 – Chaingang Cleaning System, and focopot Bike Cleaning Kit with Bike Chain Degreaser. Every recommendation is tied to information stated for that specific product; unclear or missing features were treated as unknown rather than filled with assumptions.
Detailed Reviews: Best Chain Cleaner Bicycle
1. WD-40 Specialist Bike Degreaser , 10 OZ

Best for: Foaming action cleaner.
WD-40 Specialist Bike Degreaser features a foaming action that clings to bike surfaces, deeply penetrating to quickly remove stubborn grease and grime from chains and the entire drivetrain. This formula is safe for all bike finishes and components, ensuring your bike maintains its appearance and performance.
The foaming action of this degreaser adheres to chains, cogs, and gears, allowing it to penetrate and effectively lift stubborn grease and grime from all moving parts. Its PH neutral and eco-friendly material features contribute to superior lubrication, which in turn helps extend the life of your bike chains. This makes it ideal for degreasing your drivetrain before re-lubing.
Product Details
| Brand | WD-40 Bike |
|---|---|
| Container Type | container |
| Included Components | Chain Cleaner & Degreaser, 10 OZ |
| Item Form | Foam |
| Item Volume | 10 fluid ounces |
| Item Weight | 0.28 kg |
| Manufacturer | WD-40 Bike |
Additional Product Information
| Material Feature | Eco-Friendly |
|---|---|
| Material Features | Eco-Friendly |
| Model Number | 390241 |
| Recommended Uses | Mechanical |
| Size | 10 Ounce (Pack of 1) |
| Special Features | PH Neutral |
| Additional Information | Important information Ingredients WD-40 Specialist Bike Degreaser , 10 OZ |
Pros
- Foaming action clings to surfaces for deep penetration
- Quickly removes stubborn grease and grime
- Safe for all bike finishes and components
- Eco-friendly and PH neutral formula
Cons
- Item volume is 10 fluid ounces
This degreaser is suitable for cyclists who want a powerful yet safe cleaning solution for their drivetrain. It's a good choice for maintaining bike appearance and performance, though the 10 oz volume might require frequent re-purchase for heavy users.
2. Park Tool CG-2.4 – Chaingang Cleaning System,Blue

Best for: Complete chain cleaning system.
The Park Tool CG-2.4 Chaingang Cleaning System offers a complete solution for cleaning bike chains, rear cogs, and chainrings. It includes a chain scrubber and a specialized gear brush designed to reach deep into crevices where dirt collects, ensuring a thorough clean.
This system includes the GearClean brush, which effectively reaches deep between gears and other collection points for dirt. The ChainBrite cleaning fluid is plant-based and biodegradable, ensuring it won't harm alloy, plastic, rubber, or carbon fiber components. The chain scrubber cleans chains quickly and easily without requiring chain removal, and its reversible handle offers compatibility with e-bikes.
Product Details
| Brand | Park Tool |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 1 fluid ounces |
| Container Type | Bucket |
| Included Components | Brushes, Cleaning Kits & Buckets |
| Item Form | Capsule |
| Item Volume | 236.59 ml |
| Item Weight | 499 g |
Additional Product Information
| Manufacturer | Park Tool |
|---|---|
| Material Features | Natural |
| Model Number | QKCG24 |
| Size | 1 Count (Pack of 1) |
| Special Features | Biodegradable, Plant-based |
| Warranty Description | Limited Lifetime Warranty (see parktool.com/warranty for details) |
| Additional Information | Important information Safety Information For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes. Ingredients Plant Based |
Pros
- Complete system with scrubber and brushes
- Plant-based and biodegradable cleaning fluid
- Safe for various bike materials
- Cleans without chain removal
Cons
- Cleaning fluid capacity is 1 fluid ounce
Ideal for cyclists seeking a comprehensive and eco-friendly way to clean their drivetrain. It's a practical choice for regular maintenance, though the small capacity of the cleaning fluid may necessitate frequent refills for extensive cleaning.
3. Park Tool CB-4 Bio ChainBrite Bicycle Chain & Component Cleaning Fluid – 16 fl oz/472 ml Bottle

Best for: Biodegradable plant-based degreaser.
Park Tool CB-4 Bio ChainBrite is a 100% biodegradable, natural, plant-based degreaser designed to tackle the toughest grease and grime build-up on bicycle chains and components. Its formulation ensures effective cleaning while being environmentally conscious.
This degreaser is formulated to remove the most stubborn grease and grime accumulation from chains and various bicycle components. Being 100% biodegradable and plant-based, it offers an eco-friendly cleaning solution. It also functions as an excellent general-purpose bicycle degreaser, making it versatile for different maintenance needs.
Product Details
| Brand | Park Tool |
|---|---|
| Item Form | Liquid |
| Item Volume | 16 fluid ounces |
| Item Weight | 15.68 ounces |
| Manufacturer | Park Tool |
| Material Features | Biodegradable |
| Model Number | QKCB410 |
Additional Product Information
| Size | 1 Count (Pack of 1) |
|---|---|
| Special Features | Biodegradable, Plant-based |
| Warranty Description | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
| Additional Information | Important information |
Pros
- 100% biodegradable and plant-based
- Removes toughest grease and grime
- Suitable for chains and components
- Excellent general-purpose degreaser
Cons
- Item form is liquid
This product is best for environmentally conscious cyclists who need a powerful degreaser for their chains and components. It's a versatile option for general bike cleaning, though its liquid form requires careful application.
4. focopot Bike Cleaning Kit with Bike Chain Degreaser,Scrubber,Lube

Best for: All-in-one bike cleaning kit.
The focopot Bike Cleaning Kit provides a comprehensive solution for bike maintenance, including a 10oz bike chain degreaser, chain scrubber, lubricant, and various brushes. It's designed for safe and efficient cleaning of chains, rear cogs, and chainrings.
This kit includes a biodegradable bicycle degreaser with a non-corrosive formula, ensuring it won't harm alloy, plastic, rubber, or carbon fiber components. The included chain scrubber, brushes, and sprocket scraper work together to effectively clean your bike's drivetrain. The kit aims to provide complete cleaning and maintenance for your bike.
Product Details
| Brand | focopot |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Chain Scrubber,Wheel Brush,Chain Cleaning Brush |
| Item Form | Liquid |
| Manufacturer | focopot |
| Material Features | Biodegradable |
| Model Number | FC-0037 |
| Size | 1.81 Fl Oz (Pack of 7) |
Additional Product Information
| Warranty Description | 1 year warranty |
|---|---|
| Additional Information | Important information Ingredients water |
Pros
- Includes degreaser, scrubber, and brushes
- Biodegradable and non-corrosive formula
- Safe for various bike materials
- Effectively cleans chains, cogs, and chainrings
Cons
- Item size is 1.81 Fl Oz (Pack of 7)
This kit is suitable for cyclists looking for a complete package to clean and maintain their bike's drivetrain. It offers a safe and effective cleaning experience, though the specific item size might be a consideration for some users.
5. Bike Cleaning Kit – Complete Bicycle Maintenance Set with Degreaser, Lubricant, Chain Scrubber & Brushes for Mountain, Road, MTB, E-bikes

Best for: 7-piece drivetrain maintenance set.
The Ultrafashs Bike Cleaning Kit is an essential 7-piece system focused on drivetrain care and chain maintenance for optimal performance. It includes a heavy-duty degreaser designed to dissolve stubborn grease and dirt on chains, cassettes, and derailleurs.
This essential drivetrain kit features a professional 10oz chain degreaser with a heavy-duty formula that dissolves stubborn grease, dirt, and buildup on chains, cassettes, and derailleurs. It is safe for all bicycle chain types, including road bikes and mountain bikes. The set also includes a chain scrubber tool and various cleaning brushes for hard-to-reach areas.
Product Details
| Brand | Ultrafashs |
|---|---|
| Item Form | Liquid |
| Item Volume | 10 fluid ounces |
| Item Weight | 0.78 kg |
| Manufacturer | Ultrafashs |
| Material Feature | Biodegradable |
| Material Features | Biodegradable |
Additional Product Information
| Model Number | 1-203955 |
|---|---|
| Recommended Uses | Windows,Doors,Cleansing,Outdoor |
| Size | 10 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) |
| Special Features | Biodegradable |
Pros
- Includes 10oz heavy-duty degreaser
- Safe for all bicycle chain types
- Chain scrubber for hard-to-reach areas
- Focuses on drivetrain care and maintenance
Cons
- Item weight is 0.78 kg
This kit is ideal for cyclists who prioritize comprehensive drivetrain maintenance and optimal bike performance. It offers a powerful degreaser and essential tools for thorough cleaning, though its weight might be a factor for portability.
6. Finish Line Speed Bike Degreaser Bike Chains Gears Disc Brakes 18 fl oz

Best for: Powerful dry-style degreaser.
Finish Line Speed Bike Degreaser is the brand’s most powerful cleaning solution, designed to strip away dirt, grease, and grime for professional-grade bike maintenance. Its dry-style formula evaporates completely, leaving no residue.
This powerful degreaser effectively cleans down to bare metal and evaporates completely, ensuring no residue remains that could attract dust or contaminants. The turbo sprayer design utilizes mechanical agitation to blast away heavy buildup quickly, eliminating the need for scrubbing or brushing. It is also disc brake safe, effectively decontaminating disc rotors and pads.
Product Details
| Brand | Finish Line |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 1 fluid ounces |
| Container Type | Bucket |
| Item Form | Aerosol |
| Item Volume | 558 centiliters |
| Item Weight | 325 g |
| Manufacturer | Finish Line |
Additional Product Information
| Material Features | Liquid |
|---|---|
| Model Number | S00186601 |
| Size | 18 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) |
| Special Features | Residue Free |
| Warranty Description | Limited Warranty |
| Additional Information | Important information Safety Information For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes. |
Pros
- Powerful cleaning formula
- Evaporates completely, leaving no residue
- Turbo sprayer for quick cleaning
- Disc brake safe
Cons
- Item form is aerosol
This degreaser is perfect for cyclists seeking a fast and effective cleaning solution for heavy grime and for maintaining disc brakes. Its residue-free evaporation is a key benefit, though the aerosol form requires proper ventilation during use.
7. Muc-Off X-3 Dirty Chain Machine, Bicycle Chain Cleaner Tool

Best for: Compact chain cleaner tool.
The Muc-Off X-3 Dirty Chain Machine is a compact tool designed to tackle regular grime build-up on your bike chain. It offers a solution for those who want to spend less time cleaning and more time riding.
This heavy-duty construction bike chain cleaner tool is designed to address grime build-up effectively. It aims to simplify the process of cleaning your bike chain, allowing riders to get back on the saddle sooner. The tool is specifically designed for bicycle chains, helping to maintain smooth operation.
Product Details
| Brand | Muc-Off |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Muc Off 277US |
| Item Form | Liquid |
| Item Volume | 75 ml |
| Item Weight | 11.52 ounces |
| Manufacturer | Muc Off |
| Material Feature | Biodegradable | Recycled |
Additional Product Information
| Material Features | Biodegradable | Recycled |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 277 |
| Size | 75ml + No Brush Set |
| Special Features | Alcohol Based |
| Warranty Description | Manufacturer Warranty |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov Small parts. Not for children under 3 yrs. |
Pros
- Designed to tackle grime build-up
- Simplifies chain cleaning process
- Heavy-duty construction
- Helps maintain smooth chain operation
Cons
- Not compatible with BMX or track chains
This chain cleaner is suitable for regular road and mountain bike riders who want a straightforward tool for chain maintenance. It's a practical choice for saving time, but riders with BMX or track bikes should look elsewhere.
8. Bike Chain Cleaner Set, Bike Cleaners Bicycle Cleaning Kit 100ML Chain Lube and 300ML Cleaning Spray, Bike Cleaner Kit with Brushes Cycling Maintenance, Suitable for All Types of Bike

Best for: Eco-friendly bike cleaning kit.
The YIMAX Bike Chain Cleaner Set includes a 300ml cleaning spray and 100ml lubricant, along with multiple brushes and a chain scrubber. This eco-friendly kit effectively removes stubborn dirt without corroding bicycle components.
This kit effectively removes stubborn dirt and oil from bicycle chains without causing corrosion. It includes a chain scrubber, gear brush, and sprocket brush designed for thorough cleaning. The 3-sided bristles on the brushes cover the chain efficiently, and the tail brush is useful for cleaning the crankset and freewheel.
Product Details
| Brand | YIMAX |
|---|---|
| Item Form | Liquid |
| Item Volume | 27 fluid ounces |
| Material Features | Eco-Friendly |
| Model Number | 6 |
| Size | 2.17 Fl Oz (Pack of 6) |
| Special Features | clean |
Additional Product Information
| Additional Information | Important information |
|---|
Pros
- Effectively removes stubborn dirt
- Does not corrode bicycle components
- Includes multiple cleaning brushes
- Eco-friendly material features
Cons
- Item volume is 27 fluid ounces total
This kit is a good option for cyclists seeking an eco-friendly and comprehensive solution for cleaning their drivetrain. It's suitable for all types of bikes, though the total volume might be a consideration for frequent or heavy use.
9. WD-40 All Conditions Bike Chain Lube and Chain Cleaner/Degreaser

Best for: Dual-action chain care set.
The WD-40 All-Conditions Bike Chain Lube and Chain Cleaner/Degreaser set offers a dual approach to chain maintenance. The cleaner's foaming action penetrates to remove grime, while the lube prevents squeaks and extends chain life.
This set includes a WD-40 BIKE Chain Cleaner & Degreaser with foaming action that clings to bike surfaces to deeply penetrate and quickly remove stubborn grime. The All-Conditions Chain Lube features a fast and easy-to-use formula that helps prevent squeaks and extends chain life. Its no-wax formula prevents buildup inside chain links and the drivetrain, containing corrosion inhibitors for long-term performance.
Product Details
| Brand | WD-40 |
|---|---|
| Item Form | Foam |
| Manufacturer | WD-40 |
| Material Features | Clean |
| Free From | No_Material_Type_Free |
| Recommended Uses | Cleaner,Lube |
| Size | 2 Piece Set |
Additional Product Information
| Additional Information | Important information |
|---|
Pros
- Foaming action for deep cleaning
- Prevents squeaks and extends chain life
- No-wax formula prevents buildup
- Contains corrosion inhibitors
Cons
- Item form is foam
This set is ideal for cyclists who want a convenient two-in-one solution for cleaning and lubricating their chain in various conditions. It's effective for routine maintenance, though the foam form of the cleaner requires proper application.
10. Bike or Motorcycle Chain Washer, Cleaning Brush 2 Pcs (Color, Blue and Red)

Best for: Multi-purpose cleaning brushes.
The WEFOO Bike or Motorcycle Chain Washer set includes two reusable brushes in blue and red, designed to help keep your bicycle chain clean for smooth operation. These multi-purpose brushes are suitable for various chain cleaning needs.
Each pack contains two brushes, a red and a blue one, with a total length of 10 inches. These brushes are designed to clean the chain of bicycles and motorcycles, aiding in the maintenance of smooth operation. Their reusable nature makes them an economical choice for regular chain cleaning tasks.
Product Details
| Brand | WEFOO |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Brushes |
| Item Form | Foam |
| Item Weight | 0.2 g |
| Manufacturer | WEFOO |
| Model Number | LOGV4FWB1E |
| Size | 2 Count (Pack of 1) |
Additional Product Information
| Special Features | Reusable |
|---|
Pros
- Includes two reusable brushes
- Suitable for bicycle and motorcycle chains
- Helps maintain smooth chain operation
- Multi-purpose cleaning capability
Cons
- Item weight is 0.2 g
These brushes are a practical and reusable option for cyclists and motorcyclists needing basic tools for chain cleaning. They are effective for maintaining smooth operation, though they are primarily brushes and do not include cleaning solutions.
What Buyers Often Overlook
Cleaner format, capacity, and included tools
Choose a fluid or aerosol when you already have brushes; choose a kit when the scrubber and drivetrain tools are part of the value. Standalone capacity varies from Park Tool’s 16-fluid-ounce CB-4 bottle and Finish Line’s 18-fluid-ounce aerosol to WD-40’s 10-ounce foaming degreaser. Park Tool CG-2.4 packages a scrubber, gear brush, and degreaser, while focopot includes a 10-ounce degreaser, scrubber, lubricant, floss, and multiple brushes.
Ultrafashs offers a seven-piece drivetrain-focused set with a 10-ounce degreaser and 2-ounce wet lubricant. YIMAX pairs 300 ml of cleaning fluid with 100 ml of lube and several brushes.
Muc-Off’s X-3 is a dedicated chain-cleaning tool with a 75 ml liquid listing, whereas WEFOO supplies two reusable brushes without a cleaner or lubricant. A larger bottle favors repeated cleaning; a complete kit favors convenience.
The Key Product Trade-Off
Material compatibility and drivetrain fit
Material and compatibility claims should guide the choice when your bike includes alloy, plastic, rubber, carbon fiber, painted surfaces, or disc brakes. Park Tool’s ChainBrite in the CG-2.4 is described as plant-based and suitable for alloy, plastic, rubber, and carbon fiber, while focopot identifies its degreaser as biodegradable and non-corrosive for those materials. WD-40 Specialist Bike Degreaser is described as safe for all bike finishes and components and does not contain citrus, with a pH-neutral specification.
Finish Line emphasizes disc-brake-safe cleaning and a dry-style formula that evaporates without residue, making its stated feature set distinct from liquid kits. The Muc-Off X-3 is not compatible with BMX or track chains, so that limitation matters before purchase.
WEFOO’s brushes are listed for bicycle and motorcycle chains but provide no cleaner-formula compatibility claim.
Best Chain Cleaner Bicycle: Buyer's Guide
Fit, Dimensions, and Compatibility
Compare the listed dimensions with the intended counter, cabinet, appliance, storage, or installation space. Confirm model compatibility and connection requirements where they are supplied. A useful feature cannot compensate for a product that does not physically fit or work with the buyer’s existing setup.
Capacity, Output, and Operating Format
Match listed capacity, volume, output, and operating mode to the actual household or work routine. Larger figures can support heavier use, while a smaller format may be easier to place and maintain. Treat daily output, immediate storage, and container capacity as separate specifications when the listing distinguishes them.
Materials, Construction, and Care
Use the listed materials and care instructions to judge cleaning effort, storage conditions, and compatibility with the intended use. Dishwasher, freezer, food-contact, or weather-related claims are included only when supplied for that product. Check whether routine care fits the way the product will be used.
Included Components and Setup Needs
Review the included components before planning installation or first use. Hoses, adapters, lids, paddles, bowls, brushes, controls, and manuals vary by listing. Confirm power, water, assembly, or accessory requirements from the supplied product information rather than assuming that separately pictured parts are included.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Park Tool CG-2.4 if you want one coordinated chain, cassette, and chainring cleaning system with a scrubber, gear brush, and plant-based fluid. Pick WD-40 Specialist Bike Degreaser for foaming coverage, pH-neutral specifications, and a 10-ounce format, or Finish Line Speed Bike Degreaser when residue-free aerosol cleaning and disc-brake-safe use are priorities. Select Park Tool CB-4 for a larger biodegradable, plant-based standalone bottle.
Focopot, Ultrafashs, and YIMAX suit riders who need brushes, scrubbers, degreaser, and lubricant together. Muc-Off fits users seeking a dedicated chain machine, subject to its BMX and track-chain exclusion.
Choose WEFOO when you only need reusable brushes, or WD-40’s two-piece set when cleaner and all-conditions lube belong in one package.
Quick Buying Checklist
- Confirm the complete dimensions against the available space.
- Verify model, accessory, connection, and appliance compatibility.
- Match capacity or output to the expected amount of use.
- Compare materials and care instructions with the maintenance routine.
- Check the included components before planning setup or first use.
- Confirm listed power, water, storage, or installation requirements where applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my bike chain?
Clean your bike chain regularly, ideally after every few rides or whenever it looks visibly dirty or gritty. Frequent cleaning prevents wear and tear, ensuring smoother gear changes and a longer lifespan for your drivetrain components. For wet or muddy conditions, cleaning after each ride is recommended.
What is the best way to apply chain cleaner?
Apply the cleaner directly to the chain, allowing it to penetrate the links. For spray degreasers, a few sprays are usually sufficient. For cleaning systems or fluids, follow the product’s instructions, which may involve soaking or using a brush.
Let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing.
Can I use household degreasers on my bike chain?
It’s best to use products specifically designed for bicycle chains. Household degreasers can be too harsh, potentially damaging seals, rubber components, or the metal itself. Bike-specific cleaners are formulated to be effective on grease and grime without causing harm to your bike’s delicate parts.
Do I need a special tool to clean my chain?
While brushes and rags can work for basic cleaning, a dedicated chain cleaning tool or system can significantly improve efficiency and thoroughness. These tools help to agitate the cleaner and remove stubborn grime from deep within the chain links, resulting in a cleaner drivetrain.
What should I do after cleaning my bike chain?
After thoroughly cleaning and rinsing your chain, it’s crucial to dry it completely. Once dry, apply a suitable bicycle chain lubricant. This protects against rust, reduces friction, and ensures smooth operation.
Wipe off any excess lube to prevent dirt attraction.
Final Words
For a thorough clean, consider a dedicated chain cleaning system or kit that includes brushes and a degreaser. If you prefer a quick solution, spray degreasers offer convenience. Always follow up with proper lubrication to protect your chain.
Choose based on how much time and effort you want to invest in maintenance.

