How to Clean Stains Off Pool Tables

Treat pool tables with care to ensure their longevity.

Pool tables provide entertainment and relaxation from the comfort of home. Keeping pool tables clean maintains their aesthetic appeal and protects them from deterioration. However, accidents occur when the worsted wool surfaces on pool tables become stained with beverages and other liquids. The longer stains remain on worsted wool, the more difficult they are to remove. While stains on pool tables are unsightly, improperly removing them can damage the texture of pool table surfaces and affect how billiard balls roll. Carefully remove stains from pool tables with certain solutions and techniques.

Things You'll Need

• Terry cloth
• 2 microfiber cloths
• Cold water
• 1 tbsp. vinegar
• Plastic bowl

Instructions

1. Blot the stain with a terry cloth to remove excess liquid. Start from the outside edges and work toward the center of the stain. Apply gentle pressure to prevent damaging the surface.

2. Dampen a microfiber cloth with cold water. Thoroughly wring out the cloth. Gently blot the stained area with the damp cloth to lift the stain.

3. Mix 1 tbsp. of vinegar with 1 cup of cold water in a plastic bowl. Dampen a clean microfiber cloth in the solution. Wring out the cloth.

4. Blot the stain gently with the damp cloth until removed. Allow the affected area to thoroughly air-dry.

5. Inspect the affected area for remaining stains. If any stains remain, repeat the process.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not clean the stain with warm or hot water; this can cause the stain to set.

• Use cleaning products recommended by your pool table manufacturer to prevent damage or discoloration.

References

• Home Furnish: Pool Table Cleaning and Maintenance
• Boston Billiard Emporium: Pool Table Tips and FAQ
• The Ohio State University: Quick and Easy Stain Removal
• University Of Missouri Extension: Stain Removal from Washable Fabrics