There’s no getting around it: to get the most out of your pool table, you have to put some time and energy into proper pool table maintenance. You don’t need to go crazy, but doing maintenance on a regular basis is crucial to maximizing the longevity of your table and ensuring high-quality game-play. Below are a few useful tips that can help you keep your pool table in tip-top shape for years to come.
Wiping, Brushing, and Vacuuming: The Right Tool for the Right Job
First, make a habit of running a microfiber cloth over the surface of the table after every use. It’s an easy habit to get into and it’s extremely helpful because it removes dust, dirt, and chalk before any of these get a chance to accumulate over time. The felt, in particular, responds extremely well to a regular wipe-down.
It’s also worth investing in a pool table brush. When removing pilling, first brush any debris along the bumper rails onto the table itself, then brush this loose material from the pool table’s edges and pocket areas toward the table’s middle. Be gentle. The key is to brush the surface in a straight line; and avoid any type of circular motion. If you feel you need to vacuum the table’s surface, always use a soft-bristle attachment. Remember: direct vacuuming, without the use of an attachment, can damage the playing surface. Avoid this at all costs. In the event that liquid is spilled on the surface, always use warm water and a clean microfiber cloth for clean-up—and be sure to get rid of as much excess water as possible. Again, be gentle—and avoid any excess pressure on the table’s surface.
Protecting the Surface
As a regular maintenance measure, make a habit of preventing debris from accumulating around the table. Encourage players to wash their hands before play and, if it can be done, discourage them from snacking. Cover the table when it isn’t in use to minimize dust accumulation and sunlight exposure, both of which can affect the appearance and consistency of the playing surface. Also, choose a good cover: a proper pool table cover protects the felt against spills and other potential sources of damage. And every now and then, give the cover itself an occasional thorough cleaning.
Keeping Things on an Even Keel
It goes without saying that it’s critically important to make sure your table is level. A level playing surface is an absolute must for accurate shots and consistent gameplay. A bubble level is a reliable and very affordable method of achieving this. In addition, don’t hesitate to adjust the pool table’s legs slightly if that’s what’s needed to ensure a perfectly level surface. However, if you’re worried about accidentally messing things up, don’t hesitate to hire a reputable professional to handle the leveling process for you. Sometimes peace of mind is worth the additional expense.
Things to Avoid
There are definitely a few things you should avoid when it comes to pool table maintenance. First, keep all potential sources of excessive moisture as far away from the table as possible. As noted, take steps to prevent spills and keep drinks away from the playing surface, and—depending on where you live—consider the benefits of investing in a dehumidifier. A decent small-to-medium-sized dehumidifier can be had for as little as $250.
Second, just say no to harsh cleaning agents. The dangers of using abrasive cleaners on a pool table’s felt are obvious and include discoloration and damage. For stains in particular, opt for mild soap and the minimum amount of water necessary to achieve the desired result. Test-clean an inconspicuous area of the table first before applying the soap cleanser to the stain.
Keeping your pool table in great shape also requires that you do everything in your power to keep heavy objects off its surface. If you’re moving or renovating, avoid putting boxes on your pool table, even briefly. (This is a remarkably common practice). Also keep drinking glasses, cutlery, eyeglasses, watches, and similar objects as far from the surface as possible. Provide spots where family members and guests can place these items during play.
Keeping Conditions as Stable as Possible
Try to keep the temperature of the room where your pool table is sitting as stable as possible, as temperature fluctuations can affect the condition of both the wooden frame and the felt. If necessary, invest in a climate control system. Consistent climatic conditions can add years, and sometimes decades, to the life of most pool tables.
The Value of Professional Help
Also, arrange to have your table inspected regularly. This is a great way of identifying, and remedying, minor issues before they become major issues. Watch out for loose pockets, damaged rails, or worn-out felt. Professional maintenance, at least once a year, is also an expenditure that really pays off over time. If you do happen to notice especially worn or damaged felt, don’t hesitate to hire professionals to perform a full felt replacement. Make sure to choose felt that’s the right type and color, or at least a version that’s as close to the original felt as possible.
Keeping the Table’s Wood Looking Its Best
When it comes to maintaining your table’s wooden components, always clean and polish the frame and rails regularly. Use high-quality, well-reviewed wood cleaners and conditioners. This sort of regular care can go a long way toward preventing warping and cracking.
And the Cues! We Can’t Forget the Cues
Something that’s easy to forget—but which is also crucial to consistent and enjoyable play over time—is proper cue storage. Don’t neglect your cues. Use appropriate cue racks or holders to prevent warping, keep your cues away from direct sunlight and moisture, and regularly clean their shafts and tips. When it comes to cues, a bit of maintenance now and again goes a long, long way.
Conclusion
In short, do your best to maintain your pool table. It’ll thank you in a variety of ways—but most of all by producing perfectly consistent gameplay. For daily cleaning, invest in high-quality microfiber cloths. Run these over the table’s surface on a regular basis to remove chalk, dust, and dirt build-up. A high-quality brush can prevent pilling, but always brush from the outside edges to the center, in straight lines, and—if you decide to vacuum—always use a soft-bristle attachment. Attack stains with mild soap and minimal water. Keep your table level, and keep anything with the potential to damage your table well away from its surface. Protect the surface with a high-quality cover when the table is not in use, and do everything possible to keep the surrounding environment stable. Have your table inspected on a yearly basis and don’t hesitate to call in a professional if extensive repairs are required. Use only high-quality cleaners on the table’s wooden components. Finally—and crucially—always take good care of your cues.
Final Thoughts
Proper pool table maintenance is the key to enjoying your pool table for years to come. Spending a very modest amount now to preserve your table’s condition over the long term is definitely worth it. You’ll save a ton of money, and you’ll also have the satisfaction of knowing that your table looks as good as it does because of you. Remember: a little effort in this area goes a long way, and the more TLC you show your table, the more you’ll enjoy the experience of using it!
