How to Care for Pool Balls

Billiards, or pool, as it is more commonly known in America, has been called the sport of kings. It is a game that can be found in bars and pool halls across the world, as well as in the homes of middle class citizens. No longer the province of royalty, the game has transcended its roots and is now one of the most popular pick up games in the country. If you have your own set of pool balls and would like to know how to care for them, read on and find some great tips to help keep your pool set immaculate for years.

Things You'll Need

• Clean, dry cloths
• Light billiard ball wax
• Lemon oil
• Professional ball cleaning machine (optional)
• Mild soap

Instructions

1. Use a mild, soapy water. The first step in caring for your pool balls is to clean them regularly with a mild, soapy water. The temperature of the water doesn't matter that much, but it would be best to avoid taking it to extremes in either direction. A good lukewarm water would be your best bet. Simply draw up a sinkful or a bucketful and put your pool balls into the concoction. Make sure you use a good water to soap ratio, even with the mildest of soaps. Abrasive soaps and cleansers can cause small imperfections to arise in your balls, thus making them unpredictable on the felt. Nothing can ruin a good game faster than scarred balls, so heed this warning carefully.

2. Cover with a thin film of lemon oil. After you have dried your balls and rinsed the soap from them, it might be a good idea to apply a thin coat of lemon oil to the surface, then drying them once again. This is essentially the same as polishing your furniture, though you want to avoid using common household cleaners. These can be filled with abrasives, and we've already spoken about the effect these can have on the play of your pool balls.

3. Spread a light coating of billiard ball wax. After you are done with your cleaning, it's time to apply a good billiard ball wax to your balls. It is very important that you use only waxes that have been specifically designed to coat billiard balls, and nothing else. Other waxes could be far too strong, and produce a buildup that will cause an array of problems. This could include getting waxy buildup and residue on your pool cue, on the felt, and in the pockets. Use the designed wax, and use it sparingly. Still, don't skip this step, as the added layer of protection can prolong the life of your pool balls.

4. Let dry. After you have finished your cleaning regimen, allow your pool balls to dry. Ideally, you have a net bag for your pool balls where they can hang to dry. Alternatively, they can be allowed to dry in the table's rack return, although this is not the best solution. If nothing else, simply lay out a towel and let them dry on the floor.

5. If more cleaning is necessary, consider a professional ball cleaning machine. If you have neglected your pool balls for some time, or have inherited a rather dirty set, the above cleaning regimen may not be enough. Certainly it should be tried first, but if it doesn't do the trick, you may want to consider purchasing or renting a professional ball cleaning machine. These can be rather expensive, however, so you'll have to weigh out the pros and cons of buying a new set of pool balls or spending the money to clean the current set.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid heavy waxes not specifically designed for pool balls. Do not use abrasive cleansers.